Pet Wiki

Springador

Also called Springer Spaniel Labrador mix

CrossbreedShort profile

From Particularly common in the United Kingdom, especially in rural areas.1

At a glance the quick version

Weight13.6 to 40.8 kg12
Height46 to 61 cm2
Lifespan10 to 14 years2
Sizemedium

Sources differ: The Labrador Site gives 30-50 lb (about 14-23 kg), Dogtime 50-90 lb (about 23-41 kg). Size can vary a lot even within one litter.

friendly and outgoing
tireless outdoor partner
smart and trainable
21

Coat and looks how to spot one

short to medium, dense, water-resistant

An athletic gundog build with a dense, water-resistant coat that is short to medium in length and smooth to slightly wavy.21

Coloursblackbrown/chocolateyellowwhite markings21

Personality what they are like

A cheerful, sociable dog with bags of energy and a big heart. Springadors are loyal, playful and curious, and love working alongside their people. Some take after the laid-back Labrador, others after the busier working Springer.21

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High: at least 1.5 to 2 hours of exercise a day, plus mental work. They love hiking, swimming, agility and jogging with an active owner.21

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Moderate: brush 2-3 times a week, bath every 6-8 weeks, check ears weekly and keep nails trimmed.2

Home where they are happiest

Best with an active family or owner with time for long daily outings and plenty of company.21

Company who they like around

Very sociable and happiest with company. Typically good with children and other pets. Early reward-based training, especially on recall, pays off given the spaniel's love of scent.21

The story where it all began

The Springador comes from two classic British gundogs, the Labrador Retriever and the English Springer Spaniel. It is especially popular in the British countryside, where it is kept both as a family dog and as a working and hunting companion.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Springadors are especially common in rural Britain but less known in the USA.1

  2. 2

    Puppies in the same Springador litter can grow to quite different sizes.1

  3. 3

    Their water-resistant coat suits their love of swimming.2

  4. 4

    Many Springadors work as hunting companions as well as family pets.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The Springador is a designer crossbreed produced by mating an English Springer Spaniel with a Labrador Retriever. Sometimes called a Springbador, it combines two energetic, working gundog breeds into an athletic, affectionate and highly trainable companion.3

Name ideas for your new friend

BuddyDaisyPippaRoverSunnyMollyFinnBiscuitCharlieLottieTeddyHoney

A day in the life told by a Springador

I woke my human with a wagging tail and a gentle paw. We dashed to the park, where I splashed in every puddle and fetched a stick until my legs were tired. A friendly spaniel joined me for a game of chase around the oak tree. Back home, I helped carry the laundry basket (just one sock, really) and then sprawled on the rug, belly up. My human scratched my chest, and I sighed with pure joy. Another brilliant day with my best friend.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Major kennel clubs
Not recognised by major kennel clubs as a breed; it is a crossbreed.1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Springador. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Springador, and at what times?

Feed your adult Springador at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Stick to set times each day, as their stomachs empty within a few hours. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.24

What should a Springador eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food suited to their age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, xylitol, onion, garlic, and raw dough. Always ask your vet for a complete safe list.25

How often should I bathe a Springador?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, and general guidance says at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues, but avoid over-bathing to keep their coat healthy.26 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Springador need brushing?

Brush your Springador 2 to 3 times a week to keep their short, dense coat in good condition. Furry Diary's plan recommends weekly brushing. This helps remove loose hair and keeps their water-resistant coat shiny.26 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Springador's nails, and how often?

Trim nails about every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part). If you are unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.26 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Springador need?

Your Springador needs at least 1.5 to 2 hours of exercise daily, plus mental stimulation. They love hiking, swimming, agility, and jogging with an active owner. Furry Diary's plan recommends daily walks and play.21 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Springador's teeth and ears?

Brush their teeth 2 to 3 times a week using dog toothpaste (never human toothpaste). Check ears weekly for dirt or redness, and clean gently with a vet-recommended solution. Never push anything into the ear canal.26 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Springador live?

A Springador typically lives between 10 and 14 years. With good care, regular vet check-ups, and a healthy lifestyle, they can enjoy a long, happy life by your side.2

Is a Springador good with children and other pets?

Yes, Springadors are typically very good with children and other pets. They are cheerful, sociable, and loyal. Early reward-based training, especially on recall, helps them get along well with everyone.21

Can a Springador be left alone?

Springadors are very sociable and happiest with company, so they do not like being left alone for long periods. If you must leave them, provide plenty of toys and mental stimulation, but consider a dog sitter or daycare. The exact time varies, so ask your vet or a good breeder for advice.21

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

Parents and lookalikes

Labrador RetrieverEnglish Springer SpanielSprocker SpanielGoldador

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. The Labrador Site: Springador thelabradorsite.comused for origin, weight, temperament, training, uses, fun facts
  2. Dogtime: Springador dogtime.comused for height, weight, lifespan, coat, colours, temperament, exercise, grooming
  3. giddypets.co.uk giddypets.co.uk
  4. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-10-01. Text is written in our own words from these sources.