Longevity
Life expectancy
The life expectancy of the Sussex-Spaniel is most often in a good average for a dog of this size. Regular lifestyle hygiene, a stable weight, suitable exercise and attentive veterinary follow-up help to preserve its longevity.
Constitution
Is this a robust breed?
Without being a fragile dog, the Sussex-Spaniel is not the most hardy breed either from an orthopedic and cardiac standpoint. Its robustness depends greatly on the quality of the selection, the monitoring of bloodlines, and the maintenance of proper physical condition.
Things to watch for
What to look out for
Particular attention must be paid to the eyes, joints and cardiovascular system. Choosing a reputable breeder, monitoring growth and regular veterinary follow-up are essential to detect potential problems early.
Ectropion: a malposition of the eyelid that can promote irritation, tearing, and eye infections.
Hip dysplasia: a developmental abnormality of the hip joint that can lead to pain, lameness, and osteoarthritis.
Patent ductus arteriosus: a congenital heart defect that requires early diagnosis and management.
Pulmonary stenosis: a narrowing of the pulmonary outflow tract that can tire the heart and reduce exercise tolerance.
Climate
Tolerance to cold and heat
Thanks to its dense undercoat and protective coat, the Sussex Spaniel tolerates cold and humidity rather well. It also copes correctly with moderate heat, but like any active hunting dog, it must avoid intense exertion during the hottest hours.
Weight
Prone to weight gain
Weight management is important in this breed, even if its tendency to become overweight is not pronounced. Its compact build can mask gradual weight gain, hence the value of regular weigh-ins, a measured ration, and sufficient daily activity.
Everyday care
Good habits to keep your pet healthy
- Monitor the eyes and consult promptly in case of redness or unusual tearing.
- Maintain regular activity to preserve the joints and musculature.
- Have the heart checked in case of a murmur, abnormal fatigue or exercise intolerance.
- Choose a breeder who seriously documents the health monitoring of their breeding dogs.
Vaccination
Sussex Spaniel vaccinations: schedule
Which vaccines does a Sussex Spaniel need? Like all dogs, Sussex Spaniels should receive their core vaccines from 8 weeks of age: CHPPi (core vaccine) and Leptospirosis. Puppies receive their initial Sussex Spaniel vaccinations in several shots spaced 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year. Depending on their lifestyle (hunting, hiking, boarding, travel, region), your veterinarian may add vaccines against Rabies, Kennel cough, Piroplasmosis, Lyme disease and Leishmaniasis.
| Vaccine | Primary vaccination | First booster | Then | For whom? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
CHPPi (core vaccine)Core Distemper, Rubarth hepatitis, parvovirosis and parainfluenza | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All animals |
LeptospirosisCore Leptospirosis (bacterium transmitted by rodent urine and stagnant water) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | All animals |
RabiesDepending on lifestyle Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, categorized dogs, most boarding kennels and shows |
Kennel coughDepending on lifestyle Bordetella bronchiseptica and parainfluenza | 8 weeks | 1 year | every year | Dogs attending boarding kennels, daycares, dog clubs and shows |
PiroplasmosisDepending on lifestyle Tick-borne babesiosis | 5 months · 6 months | 1 year | every year | Hunting dogs, dogs living in rural or wooded areas, dogs highly exposed to ticks |
Lyme diseaseDepending on lifestyle Tick-borne borreliosis | 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | Hiking dogs, hunting dogs, forest areas of the East and the Center |
LeishmaniasisDepending on lifestyle Leishmaniasis transmitted by sandflies | 6 months | 1 year and 6 months | every year | Dogs living or staying in the South of France, Corsica and the Mediterranean basin |
Adult Sussex Spaniel booster shots are given annually for leptospirosis and rabies. For distemper, hepatitis, and parvovirus, a booster every three years is often enough after the first booster. Your veterinarian will tailor the schedule to your dog's actual risk.
Which boosters does your Sussex Spaniel need?
Enter your companion's age to see which vaccines are due now and when the next boosters are needed.
Choosing well
Adopting a healthy Sussex Spaniel
It is relevant to monitor the hips, eyes and heart, especially in lines intended for breeding. Regular veterinary examinations and transparent dialogue with the breeder help to limit unpleasant surprises.
This information is for guidance only and doesn't replace advice from a veterinarian. If you have any concerns about your pet's health, consult a professional.
