Springador
An energetic, intelligent Springer–Labrador cross bred from two working gundogs. Loyal and trainable, but needs a lot of exercise and mental work. Energy and coat vary depending on which parent they take after.
Springador scorecard
Overview
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. It is a popular choice with active owners, and dogs of this type are sometimes used in working and detection roles thanks to their drive and biddability.
The Springador is not a recognised breed, with no Kennel Club or FCI standard and no registry, so appearance, size and temperament vary between individuals and generations. What is fairly consistent, given both parents are working gundogs, is high energy and a need for plenty of exercise and mental work. This is a dog for people who want an active, outdoorsy companion, not a placid lapdog.
Good to know — a Springador needs plenty of space and manageable for committed beginners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
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History & origins
The Springador's identity comes from its two British-developed gundog parents. The English Springer Spaniel is one of the oldest spaniel types, bred to "spring" or flush game from cover and retrieve it; it is energetic, enthusiastic and devoted to its work. The Labrador Retriever, developed in Britain from Newfoundland dogs, was bred to retrieve game from water and is famed for its friendly temperament, trainability and love of food.
The deliberate Springer-Labrador cross is a modern development, part of the broader designer-crossbreed trend, and is valued for combining stamina, intelligence and a willingness to work. Because both parents are high-drive working dogs, the Springador suits experienced or active homes. A responsible breeder will health-test both the Springer and Labrador parents.
Temperament & family fit
Springadors are typically loyal, affectionate, intelligent and full of energy. They tend to bond closely with their families, love being involved in activities, and are usually friendly with people and other dogs when well socialised. The Labrador's good nature and the Springer's eager enthusiasm generally combine into a cheerful, busy, people-focused dog.
That energy and drive mean a Springador can become bored, frustrated and destructive without enough exercise and stimulation. Both parent breeds dislike being left alone and may develop separation-related problems. This is an enthusiastic dog that needs an outlet for its working instincts; given the right lifestyle it is rewarding, but it can be a handful for an unprepared owner.
- Families with children of all ages
- Owners ready for consistent training
- Active homes with plenty of space
Training & intelligence
The Springador is highly trainable, as both parents are intelligent working gundogs that thrive on having a job and pleasing their handler. Reward-based training using food, toys and play is very effective, and these dogs excel at activities such as retrieving, scent work and gundog-style training.
Early focus on recall, lead manners and impulse control pays off, as the gundog heritage brings strong chase and retrieve instincts. They benefit enormously from mental challenges; a Springador that is only walked but never engaged mentally is likely to find its own, often unwanted, entertainment. Channel the working drive into structured games and training.
- Start socialisation & handling early
- Reward-based methods only — no harsh corrections
- Channel energy into training games & enrichment
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Springador typically needs 2 hours or more, plus a job to do a day (roughly 120–180 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. Higher-energy dogs also need their brains tired — sniffy walks, training games and puzzle feeding go a long way. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
Coat type varies between the Labrador's short double coat and the Springer's longer, feathered coat. Most Springadors need regular brushing, with feathered coats requiring more attention and occasional trimming. They shed and are not hypoallergenic. The drop ears from both parents must be checked and cleaned regularly, especially in a dog that loves water and muddy fields, to help prevent ear infections.
- Brush occasionally to remove loose hair
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding considerations
Feed a complete, good-quality food suited to this active dog's size, age and energy output. Labradors are particularly prone to overeating and obesity, so portion control matters even in a high-energy cross. Measure meals, adjust for activity levels, account for training treats and monitor body condition. Active working-type dogs may need food divided to support their energy needs; keep fresh water available at all times.
Springador health & costs
Before bringing a Springador home it pays to budget for the whole picture — food, insurance, grooming and routine vet care all add up. The figures below are typical UK estimates for a healthy adult; your real costs vary with where you live, your dog's health and the cover you choose.
Food
£600–850 / year
Complete food sized to weight & life stage
Insurance
£35–62 / month
Lifetime cover — varies by age, breed & area
Grooming
£0–60 / year
Mostly DIY at home
Routine vet care
£200–450 / year
Vaccines, flea/worm, annual check
As a crossbreed, the Springador can inherit health problems from both parents, and responsible breeders should health-test the Springer and Labrador lines. From the Labrador side, hip and elbow dysplasia, hereditary eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy, and obesity are key concerns. From the Springer side, hip dysplasia, eye conditions and certain inherited disorders are recognised, and the breed is also associated with ear problems.
Both parent breeds have established Kennel Club health schemes, so buyers should request hip and elbow scores and eye-test certificates for the parents. The active, water-loving nature of the Springador makes regular ear care especially important. Maintaining a lean body condition protects the joints of a dog already at some risk of dysplasia. Pet insurance is sensible for this cross.
Common health conditions to be aware of
- Hip dysplasia — an inherited hip-joint malformation common in both Labradors and Springers; check parental hip scores
- Elbow dysplasia — a joint condition seen in Labradors that can cause lameness and arthritis
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) — an inherited, progressive eye disease in both parent breeds leading to blindness
- Ear infections — long drop ears plus a love of water make ear problems common and care essential
- Obesity — the strong Labrador appetite means weight gain is a real risk without portion control
- Cataracts — clouding of the lens recognised in both parent breeds, so eye testing of parents is important
These reflect typical, size- and coat-related risks for dogs like the Springador; individual breeds carry their own predispositions. Always buy from health-tested parents and speak to your vet — this isn't a diagnosis.
Protect against surprise bills
A single emergency can run into thousands. Lifetime insurance spreads the risk.
Estimate insurance →How pet insurance works →Puppy & senior care
Bringing home a Springador puppy
Puppies need controlled exercise (a rough guide is five minutes per month of age, twice a day) to protect growing joints, little-and-often meals of a complete puppy food, early socialisation, and a calm routine for toilet training and sleep. Book first vaccinations, microchipping and a vet check early.
New puppy checklist →Caring for a senior Springador
As they age, watch weight, joints and teeth, switch to a senior diet if your vet advises, keep exercise gentle but regular, and consider orthopaedic bedding and ramps. Twice-yearly vet checks help catch issues early — larger breeds age sooner, so start senior care from around 6–7 years.
Orthopaedic beds & mobility →Pros & cons
The good bits
- Athletic, biddable and highly trainable
- Loyal, affectionate family dog
Things to consider
- Very high exercise and stimulation needs
- Can become destructive if under-exercised
Compare the Springador
See how the Springador measures up against similar breeds before you decide:
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Springador?
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. Dogs of this type are sometimes used in working and detection roles thanks to their drive and biddability, making it popular with active owners.
How big is a fully grown Springador?
A fully grown Springador is a medium-to-large dog, typically standing around 46–61 cm at the shoulder and weighing roughly 20–34 kg. As a crossbreed there is no breed standard, so appearance and size vary between individuals and generations. What is fairly consistent, given both parents are working gundogs, is high energy and a need for plenty of exercise.
What is the life expectancy of a Springador?
A Springador typically lives around 10–14 years. As a crossbreed it has no breed-specific health statistics, so longevity depends on the health of the individual parents. Keeping the dog lean to protect its joints, choosing health-tested parents and providing routine veterinary care all support a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Springador need?
The Springador is a high-energy dog with substantial exercise needs, typically well over an hour of activity a day, ideally including off-lead running, retrieving and swimming, plus mental enrichment. Both parents were bred for stamina in the field, so this is not a cross that thrives on short walks. Without enough physical and mental exercise it can become hyperactive and difficult to live with.
Are Springadors easy to train?
Yes, the Springador is highly trainable, as both parents are intelligent working gundogs that thrive on having a job and pleasing their handler. Reward-based training using food, toys and play is very effective, and these dogs excel at retrieving and scent work. Focus early on recall, lead manners and impulse control, as the gundog heritage brings strong chase and retrieve instincts.
Do Springadors shed and need much grooming?
Yes, they shed and are not hypoallergenic. Coat type varies between the Labrador's short double coat and the Springer's longer, feathered coat. Most need regular brushing, with feathered coats requiring more attention and occasional trimming. The drop ears from both parents must be checked and cleaned regularly, especially in a dog that loves water and muddy fields, to help prevent ear infections.
What health problems can a Springador inherit?
From the Labrador side, hip and elbow dysplasia, hereditary eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy, and obesity are key concerns. From the Springer side, hip dysplasia, eye conditions and certain inherited disorders are recognised, along with ear problems. Both parent breeds have Kennel Club health schemes, so request hip and elbow scores and eye-test certificates for the parents.
What kind of home suits a Springador?
The Springador is best suited to an active, experienced household with plenty of time and access to open space for daily exercise. It thrives in homes that enjoy the outdoors, walking, running or dog sports, and where it is not left alone for long. A secure garden and easy access to walks are ideal. Its energy and size mean it can be boisterous around very young children.
Are Springadors good with children?
Good with children. As a general guide, Springadors tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Springador need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Springador needs 2 hours or more, plus a job to do of exercise a day (120–180 minutes), split across walks plus play. Higher-energy dogs also need mental stimulation — sniffing, training games and puzzle feeders — to stay settled. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.
Do Springadors shed a lot?
Moderate shedding. Coat upkeep is easy-care — a quick brush now and then is usually enough.
Are Springadors easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Manageable for committed beginners. Springadors are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Springadors bark a lot?
Moderate barker. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.
Are Springadors good with other dogs?
Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Springadors suit flats or smaller homes?
Needs plenty of space. A Springador really needs plenty of space and a lot of daily activity — not ideal for a small flat.
Sources
- The Kennel Club — English Springer Spaniel breed information: https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/breed-standards/gundog/spaniel-english-springer/
- The Kennel Club — Labrador Retriever breed information: https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/breed-standards/gundog/retriever-labrador/
- PDSA — Labrador Retriever: https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/large-dogs/labrador-retriever
- Blue Cross — Dog breeds and behaviour: https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/dog-breeds-and-behaviour
- RSPCA — Buying a puppy: https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/puppy
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.