subject: Seven Careers For Springer Spaniel Sniffer Dogs [print this page] When you use the term springer spaniel working dogs, many people think of the usual definition of a working dog as one which is used for hunting, flushing and retrieving game. Springer spaniels are, I believe, the most versatile of breeds for this task, as they can work very well across water. Certainly, labs can work in water too, but my view is that the springer is the best all-rounder. However, the springer works in many other ways too, not just in the field - believe it or not, in wildlife protection.
Rescue Dogs
Historically, organisations (for example police forces) have used German Shepherd dogs for searching. However, this breed can frighten people. So, springer spaniels are now being trained for this purpose.
Searching for Bombs
Springer spaniels work widely as sniffer dogs in security operations e.g. in Afghanistan; also for pre-event security searching - for example where senior politicians will be in attendance.
Drug Searches
At harbours and airports springer spaniel sniffer dogs are widely used for detecting smuggled drugs. The air cargo traffic has been growing rapidly, especially for high value/low volume cargoes - and illegal substances fit wellinto this bracket; air freight also removes the need to dupe genuine travellers to carry the contraband, which increases risk. Whether it is passengers, or freight, the springers can sniff it all.
Dead Body Search
Good sniffer dogs pick up normal human scent easilyat a hundred yards and more (depending on wind conditions), but smell the gases escaping from buried bodies.
Underwater Bodies
In Scotland, a springer spaniel has been trained to locate dead bodies at the bottom of the River Clyde. Apparently, the decomposition gases can be detected on the water surface by the springer spaniel, Barra. He has also been called into service in Northern Ireland.
Wildlife Protection
The Parks department in New South Wales, Australia, has a springer spaniel sniffer dog which has been trained to detect Small Penguins. The breed of penguin is at risk as the number of breeding pairs has fallen, and the dog, named 'Eco', is used to locate and track them so that an accurate count can be maintained.
Preservation of Ancient Temples
In South Korea, ancient buildings - many of which are built of timber - are threatened by termite attack. Three springer spaniel sniffer dogs are used to find potential termite infestation.
Why Are Springer Spaniels Used as Sniffer Dogs?
Springers have one of the best 'sense of smell' of any breed, able to detect one billionth of a gram of explosives or drugs. They have a high workrate and cover ground quickly. With their compact size and agility they search awkward corners and spaces nimbly. Compare a springer to a bloodhound!
It's amazing isn't it, what these marvellous dogs are used for. And when you see the films of them in action, it's clear they love their work!
