The Sussex Spaniel is steady and calm around the house. They are not very outgoing or demonstrative compared to other spaniels. It reaches the enthusiasm of a warrior in its work. On the hunt-field it barks continuously, moving with a characteristic swinging gait. It is adapted to hunting and retrieving small game, especially in wooded areas.
This dog sometimes bays when it is hunting. The Sussex Spaniel is the only Spaniel that does this. They may howl when they are left alone. It is also a good companion dog. This breed loves everyone and they are sweet, gentle and devoted.
These are very sociable dogs, which usually get along well with cats and are excellent with children. A well socialized Sussex, with a true pack leader will get along with other dogs. It tends to be less playful and demonstrative than other Spaniels, with a lower energy level.
The Sussex Spaniel is a quick learner, but it is important to be consistent with them. It needs firm leadership and patient training. This breed likes to bark. You should teach them, one bark, for instance when the doorbell rings, is sufficient. Owners should be willing and able to assert their dominance or they may become snappish if annoyed. The owner needs to be stronger minded, in a firm but calm way, than the dog.
Sussex Spaniel puppies grow more slowly than most other breeds, and usually take longer to reach developmental stages such as crawling and walking. A generally healthy breed, Sussex Spaniels have an average life span of 12-14 years. However they are subject to developing heart murmurs, enlarged hearts, intervertebral disc syndrome, and carcinomas.
