Sussex Spaniel
The Sussex Spaniel is described by the AKC as Affectionate, Loyal, a member of the Sporting Group, originally from England.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 13-15 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 35-45 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 13–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Affectionate / Loyal [1] |
| AKC group | Sporting Group [1] |
| Origin | England [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 175 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The Sussex Spaniel should not have strenuous exercise before he is at least a year old. Sussex are slow growing, and exercise too early can damage the growth plates. Puppies should be allowed to self-exercise by playing. [1]
Grooming
General grooming for the breed is simply bathing, brushing, and combing. The hair on the bottoms of the feet should be trimmed to keep the dog from slipping. If the dog is neutered, the coat becomes fuzzy and cotton-candy like, and is much harder to deal with. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Sussex are difficult to breed, and bitches often skip seasons, re-absorb puppies, and need C-sections. Puppies are fragile until about two weeks of age. Responsible breeders screen their stock for health conditions such as heart problems. Bloat can affect some Sussex, and cancer occurs in mostly older dogs. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: No recommended health tests. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Sussex Spaniel in 1878. [1]
- It ranked No. 175 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 173 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Sussex (singular and plural).” [1]
- The AKC lists England as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 1 recommended health screening for breeding dogs, such as No recommended health tests. [1]
Good fit for
- ⚠️ Think twice: Close neighbors or thin walls: AKC rates barking 4/5
Common questions
How long do Sussex Spaniels live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 13-15 years.
How big does a Sussex Spaniel get?
AKC breed information lists height 13-15 inches and weight 35-45 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Sussex Spaniel?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Sussex Spaniel, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.