The English Springer Spaniel

English Springer Spaniels are highly adaptable dogs that thrive in active households where they receive regular exercise, companionship, and mental stimulation. Their affectionate and intelligent nature makes them a great fit for various living situations.

Ideal Environments for Springer Spaniels:

• Active Families – They love being part of family activities and are excellent with children. Their playful and affectionate temperament makes them great companions.
• Homes with Yards – A secure yard provides space for them to run and explore. While they can adapt to smaller spaces, they need regular outdoor activity.
• Suburban and Rural Living – Originally bred as gundogs, they excel in open spaces where they can use their instincts to sniff, track, and retrieve.
• First-Time Owners – Their eager-to-please nature and intelligence make them relatively easy to train, making them a good choice for novice owners who are committed to exercise and training.

Important Considerations:

• Exercise Needs – At least 1–2 hours of daily activity is required to keep them physically and mentally satisfied.
• Mental Stimulation – Interactive games, obedience training, and retrieving exercises help prevent boredom.
• Companionship – Springer Spaniels are highly social and do not thrive when left alone for long periods.
• Coat Maintenance – Their medium-length coat requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and matting.

With proper exercise, training, and companionship, English Springer Spaniels adapt well to family life and active households.

While Springer Spaniels are highly adaptable, certain environments or lifestyles may not suit their high-energy and social nature.

Challenges for Springer Spaniels

• Apartments or Small Homes Without Regular Exercise – They need space to run and play. Without enough exercise, they may become restless or destructive.
• Best for Moderately Active to Active Owners – They need regular exercise but can settle indoors when their needs are met.
• Being Left Alone for Long Hours – Springer Spaniels are prone to separation anxiety if left without company for extended periods. They need interaction and do best in homes where someone is around most of the day.
• Hot Climates – Their dense, feathered coat can make them prone to overheating in extreme heat, so they require shade, hydration, and proper grooming.
• Busy Households Without Structure – Their enthusiastic nature means they need training and clear boundaries to prevent overexcitement and unwanted behaviours.

Potential Solutions for Apartment Living:

• Daily Exercise – Multiple walks, playtime, and training sessions help manage their energy in smaller spaces.
• Mental Stimulation – Puzzle toys, training games, and scent work provide enrichment to prevent boredom.
• Dog Walkers or Daycare – If left alone for long hours, arranging a dog walker or playgroup can help meet their social needs.

Important Considerations:

• High Exercise Needs: They require at least 1–2 hours of daily activity to stay happy and well-behaved. Without enough physical and mental stimulation, they may develop destructive behaviours.
• Highly Trainable: They respond well to positive reinforcement and enjoy structured training sessions.
• Prey Drive and Tracking Instincts – Their natural hunting instincts mean they may chase small animals or get distracted by scents, making leash training and recall practice essential.
• Social and People-Oriented – They form strong bonds with their owners and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
• Grooming Commitment – Their medium-length, feathered coat requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and matting, especially around their ears and legs.

With proper training, companionship, and exercise, English Springer Spaniels adapt well but thrive in active, engaging homes.

English Springer Spaniels are affectionate, intelligent, and eager to please, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners. However, their high energy levels and strong working instincts require a commitment to training and exercise.

Why English Springer Spaniels Can Be a Challenge for Novice Owners

• High Energy Levels – They require plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
• Strong Hunting Instincts – Originally bred as gun dogs, they have a natural drive to chase and retrieve, which may require careful training.
• Can Be Excitable – Their friendly, enthusiastic nature means they can be boisterous, especially as young dogs.
• Prone to Separation Anxiety – They form strong bonds with their owners and dislike being left alone for long periods.
• Grooming Needs – Their medium-length coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting, particularly around the ears and legs.

Challenges for Novice Owners

• Requires Consistent Training – While eager to learn, they can be easily distracted by scents and movement, requiring patience and structured training.
• Can Be Mouthy – As retrieving dogs, they may chew on objects or nip during play, so early training is essential.
• Strong Recall but Needs Training: They are eager to please but may get distracted by scents or small animals.
• Social and Attention-Seeking – They need plenty of human interaction and may develop unwanted behaviours if they feel neglected.

How Novice Owners Can Succeed with an English Springer Spaniel

• Start Training Early – Puppy classes and positive reinforcement help develop good manners and impulse control.
• Provide Ample Exercise – At least 1–2 hours of physical activity daily keeps them happy and prevents destructive behaviours.
• Engage Their Mind – Activities like obedience training, agility, and scent work keep them mentally stimulated.
• Socialisation is Essential – Exposure to different people, environments, and animals helps them become well-adjusted adults.
• Commit to Grooming – Regular brushing and ear cleaning are necessary to maintain coat health and prevent infections.

Active, patient first-time owners will find English Springer Spaniels to be loyal, affectionate companions who thrive with exercise, socialisation, and attention.

English Springer Spaniels are affectionate, responsive, and deeply connected to their families. They thrive on interaction and can be sensitive to their owner’s tone, emotions, and household changes. Understanding their sensitivity helps ensure they remain confident and well-adjusted.

What Makes English Springer Spaniels Sensitive?

• Strong Emotional Bonds – They are deeply attached to their families and may struggle with being left alone for long periods.
• Highly Responsive – They are eager to please and react strongly to their owner's tone, making positive reinforcement crucial in training.
• Sensitive to Changes – They notice shifts in routine or household dynamics, which can impact their behaviour.
• Energetic and People-Oriented – Their enthusiasm can be overwhelming, so they need guidance to develop good manners.

Ownership Impact

• Positive Training Works Best – They respond well to praise and rewards but may become anxious with harsh corrections.
• Routine and Stability Matter – A consistent schedule helps them feel secure and prevents stress-related behaviours.
• Socialisation is Essential – Early exposure to different environments, people, and experiences helps build confidence.
• Monitor for Anxiety Signs – Signs like excessive barking, destructive chewing, or pacing can indicate stress or boredom.

Important Considerations

• Not Ideal for Long Hours Alone – Without companionship, they may develop separation anxiety or unwanted behaviours.
• Balanced Leadership is Key – They thrive under calm, confident owners who provide clear expectations.
• Social by Nature – They enjoy meeting new people and other dogs, but early training ensures they remain well-mannered.

With consistent training, companionship, and structured exercise, English Springer Spaniels remain happy, well-adjusted, and affectionate family members.

The Positive Side of Sensitivity

English Springer Spaniels are loyal, intelligent, and affectionate family companions. With early socialisation and positive training, they become confident, well-mannered dogs that thrive in active homes.

English Springer Spaniels are highly social dogs that prefer companionship. While they can handle short periods alone, they do best in homes where they receive regular interaction and engagement.

Social Needs and Attachment

• Loyal and People-Oriented – They love being near their family and may become anxious if left alone too often.
• High Risk of Separation Anxiety – They may develop boredom-related behaviours, such as barking or destructive chewing, without proper training.
• Energetic but Adaptable – While active, they can relax indoors when their exercise needs are met.

Ownership Impact

• Best for Owners with Flexible Schedules – They do well in homes where someone is around most of the time.
• Early Alone-Time Training is Essential – Teaching gradual independence from puppyhood helps prevent clinginess.
• Provide Mental Stimulation – Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and obedience training help keep them engaged when left alone.

Alternatives for Busy Owners

• Dog Walkers or Pet Sitters – If away for long hours, midday check-ins or walks can help break up their alone time.
• Companion Dog – They often enjoy the company of another dog, particularly if raised together. 

Important Notes

• Boredom Can Lead to Destructive Behaviours – Without enough mental and physical activity, they may develop excessive barking, digging, or chewing.
• Not Ideal for Frequent Absences – Homes where they are left alone all day, every day may not suit them.
• Structured Alone Time is Key – Teaching independence through training and routine can help prevent distress.

The Positive Side of Their Attachment

English Springer Spaniels are loving, affectionate companions that form strong family bonds. With the right training and daily engagement, they develop independence while maintaining their social and playful nature.

English Springer Spaniels can adapt to warm climates, but their thicker coat and high energy levels mean they require extra care in hot weather.

Heat Sensitivity

• Moderate Heat Tolerance – While they can handle mild heat, their dense coat makes them more prone to overheating.
• At Risk of Overheating – Their active nature means they may overexert themselves in warm conditions.
• Signs of Heat Stress – Excessive panting, drooling, and lethargy indicate they need to cool down immediately.

Ownership Impact

• Exercise During Cooler Hours – Walks and outdoor play should be scheduled in the early morning or evening.
• Hydration is Crucial – They must always have access to fresh, cool water, especially after exercise.
• Shaded Areas are Essential – Whether indoors or outdoors, they need a cool, shaded place to rest.
• Grooming Helps with Heat Management – Regular brushing removes excess fur and helps improve airflow through their coat.

Grooming Considerations

• Moderate Shedding: Their coat sheds consistently throughout the year, requiring regular brushing to control loose hair.
• Avoid Hot Pavement: Their paw pads can be sensitive to extreme surface temperatures.

Important Considerations

• Heat Tolerance Varies – Some English Springer Spaniels handle warm weather better than others. Watch for signs of discomfort, especially in humid conditions.
• Never Leave in a Hot Car – Their thicker coat makes them more susceptible to heatstroke in enclosed spaces.
• Indoor Cooling is Beneficial – Fans, cooling mats, and air-conditioning help keep them comfortable on hot days.
• Grooming Helps with Heat Management – Regular brushing reduces trapped heat and improves airflow through the coat.

English Springer Spaniels enjoy the outdoors but need proper hydration, shade, and breaks from intense heat. With careful management, they can stay active and comfortable in warm weather.

English Springer Spaniels have a medium-length, water-resistant coat that provides moderate protection against cold weather. However, they are not built for extreme winter conditions and need extra care in freezing temperatures.

Cold Weather Tolerance

• Moderate Cold Tolerance: Their water-resistant coat helps protect them in cool and damp weather, but they may need extra warmth in extreme cold.
• Enjoys cool weather – They are active dogs that often enjoy running in crisp temperatures.
• Not built for extreme cold – Prolonged exposure to snow, wind, or icy rain can make them uncomfortable.

Ownership Impact

• Watch for signs of cold sensitivity – Shivering, paw lifting, or reluctance to go outside means they need extra warmth.
• Provide warm, dry shelter – Soft bedding and an indoor resting place keep them comfortable during colder months.
• Use a dog coat in harsh weather – A waterproof jacket helps protect against wind, rain, and snow.

Important Considerations

• Cold tolerance varies – Some Springer Spaniels handle cool weather better, while others may seek warmth quickly.
• Keep outdoor sessions short in freezing conditions – They love outdoor adventures but shouldn’t stay out too long in icy weather.
• Wet fur reduces insulation – Dry them off after being in rain, snow, or damp grass to keep them comfortable.

English Springer Spaniels enjoy cooler temperatures but need extra care in extreme cold. With proper protection, shelter, and warm bedding, they can still stay active and happy in winter conditions.

English Springer Spaniels are affectionate, social, and thrive on being part of a family. They are known for their loving nature and eagerness to bond with their owners.

Springer Spaniels as Affectionate Companions

• Loyal and Loving – They form deep attachments to their family members.
• Eager to Please – Their affectionate nature makes them highly responsive to interaction and praise.
• Enjoys Physical Contact – They love cuddles, belly rubs, and being close to their owners.

Ownership Impact:

• Thrives on Companionship – They do best in homes where they receive daily attention and are included in family activities.
• Prefer Human Companionship: They do best in homes where they receive regular attention but can be trained to tolerate short periods alone.
• Early Socialisation Helps – Exposure to different people and experiences ensures they grow into well-adjusted companions.

English Springer Spaniels are loving and loyal family dogs who crave human interaction. They enjoy both playtime and relaxation with their favourite people.

English Springer Spaniels are great with children, known for their friendly and playful temperament. Their energetic and affectionate nature makes them wonderful family pets.

Springer Spaniels and Children

• Gentle and Playful – They enjoy playing and are patient with children.
• Friendly and Social – Their even temperament makes them trustworthy around kids.
• Can Be Excitable – Their enthusiasm means they may accidentally knock over small children during play.

Ownership Impact:

• Teach Gentle Play – Kids should be shown how to interact respectfully to avoid overexcitement.
• Supervised Interaction – While gentle, their energy can be overwhelming for toddlers.
• Great for Active Families – They love engaging with children in outdoor play and training activities.

With proper supervision and positive interactions, English Springer Spaniels are affectionate and fun-loving companions for children of all ages.

English Springer Spaniels are generally friendly with other animals, especially when properly socialised. Their sociable and affectionate nature allows them to coexist with other pets, though their strong hunting instincts require supervision around smaller animals.

Socialisation and Training:

• Best with Proper Introductions – They are highly social and enjoy the company of other dogs, especially when raised together.
• Prey Drive is Present – Their hunting background means they may instinctively chase smaller pets like rabbits or birds.
• Friendly but Energetic – Their enthusiasm may be overwhelming for more timid or smaller pets.

With the right training and introductions, English Springer Spaniels can happily live alongside other pets, but their natural instincts should be considered when interacting with smaller animals.

English Springer Spaniels are naturally friendly and outgoing, making them welcoming to guests and new people. They are not typically reserved or aloof, and their social nature makes them unsuitable as guard dogs.

Springer Spaniels and Strangers:

• Social and Outgoing – They are naturally friendly and enjoy meeting new people.
• Not Protective or Guard-Oriented – While they may bark to alert their owners, they are more likely to greet a stranger with enthusiasm than suspicion.
• Eager to Interact – Their affectionate nature means they enjoy human attention, even from unfamiliar people.

English Springer Spaniels thrive in social environments and enjoy making new friends. While they may alert their owners to new arrivals, they are generally friendly and welcoming toward strangers.

English Springer Spaniels have a medium-length, double coat that sheds moderately year-round. Regular grooming helps manage loose hair and prevents matting.

Shedding Reality:

• Double Coat: They shed consistently, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes.
• Moderate Maintenance: Their coat requires regular upkeep to stay in good condition.
• Not Hypoallergenic: They produce dander and may not be suitable for allergy sufferers.

Ownership Impact:

• Frequent Brushing: Brushing 2–3 times a week helps reduce shedding and prevents tangles.
• Vacuuming May Be Needed: Their coat sheds more than short-haired breeds.
• Regular Bathing: Helps maintain coat health, especially after outdoor activities.

With proper grooming, English Springer Spaniels remain well-maintained and comfortable while minimising loose hair in the home.

English Springer Spaniels are not excessive droolers, making them a relatively clean breed.

Drooling Tendencies:

• Minimal Drooling: They may drool slightly after drinking but are not known for excessive saliva production.
• Health-Related Drooling: Increased drooling could indicate dental problems or underlying health concerns.

Ownership Impact:

• Low Mess: They are a good choice for owners who prefer a tidy home.
• Regular Dental Care: Helps prevent drooling caused by oral health issues.

With minimal drooling and regular grooming, English Springer Spaniels are easy to manage and maintain in a clean home environment.

English Springer Spaniels require regular grooming to maintain their coat and overall hygiene.

Grooming Requirements:

• Brushing: At least 2–3 times a week to prevent matting and remove loose hair.
• Bathing: Every 4–6 weeks or after outdoor activities, as their coat can trap dirt.
• Nail Trimming & Ear Cleaning: Regular trims and ear checks help prevent infections.

Ownership Impact:

• Moderate Grooming Commitment: Their coat requires regular maintenance, but it’s manageable with routine care.
• Professional Grooming May Be Needed: Some owners opt for professional grooming to keep their coat neat, especially around their ears and legs.

With consistent brushing and maintenance, English Springer Spaniels stay clean, healthy, and comfortable.

English Springer Spaniels are generally healthy, but they are prone to some hereditary conditions. Responsible breeding and routine veterinary care help ensure a long and active life.

Potential Health Concerns

• Hip Dysplasia: A genetic condition affecting joint development, potentially leading to arthritis. Responsible programs can screen dogs' hips with an x-ray, and owners should maintain a healthy weight and regular exercise.
• Elbow Dysplasia: A developmental elbow joint disorder that can cause forelimb lameness and early arthritis; responsible programs screen breeding dogs’ elbows with x-rays.
• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A degenerative eye condition that may cause gradual vision loss. 

The Importance of Reputable Breeders

• Health Testing is crucial to clear the dogs of any potential genetic diseases
• Focus on Temperament & Health: Ensuring well-balanced, healthy puppies.

Ownership Impact

• Routine Vet Check-ups: Early detection of health concerns improves long-term outcomes.
• Balanced Diet & Exercise: Supports joint health and prevents obesity.
• Preventative Health Measures: Regular screenings help catch issues early.

With proper care and health screenings, English Springer Spaniels can enjoy a long, healthy life as active and affectionate companions.

English Springer Spaniels are energetic dogs, but they can gain weight if their diet and exercise routines are not managed properly.

Factors Contributing to Weight Gain

• Overfeeding: They enjoy food and may overeat if portions are not controlled.
• Lack of Exercise: They need daily activity to maintain their ideal weight and muscle tone.
• Metabolism & Age: Senior dogs tend to slow down and may require dietary adjustments.

Ownership Impact

• Controlled Portions: Feed-measured meals suited to their size and activity level.
• Healthy Treats: Opt for lean proteins, fruits, or dog-safe vegetables instead of calorie-dense snacks.
• Regular Exercise: Daily walks, retrieving games, and agility activities help keep them fit.
• Weight Monitoring: Regularly checking their body condition ensures they remain at a healthy weight.

The Importance of a Healthy Weight

• Reduces joint strain and prevents arthritis
• Prevents obesity-related conditions
• Maintains energy levels and overall well-being

With a well-balanced diet and consistent exercise, English Springer Spaniels stay active, lean, and healthy throughout their lives.

English Springer Spaniels are intelligent and eager to please, making them highly trainable. Their natural enthusiasm and willingness to work make them excellent companions for obedience training and dog sports.

• Highly Intelligent: They learn quickly and enjoy training sessions.
• Eager to Please: Unlike independent breeds, they are responsive and cooperative.
• Energetic and Attentive: They thrive on structured training and engagement.

The Challenges

• High Energy Levels: Without enough exercise, they may become restless and distracted during training.
• Can Be Easily Distracted: Their keen nose may lead them to lose focus, especially in outdoor settings.
• Sensitive to Harsh Methods: They respond best to positive reinforcement and may shut down with overly firm corrections.

Ownership Impact

• Start Early: Puppy training and early socialisation help shape a well-mannered dog.
• Use Positive Reinforcement: Rewards, praise, and interactive training work best.
• Provide Mental Stimulation: Advanced obedience, retrieving games, and scent work keep them engaged.

With consistent training and an active routine, English Springer Spaniels develop into obedient, well-rounded companions who excel in various canine activities.

English Springer Spaniels are intelligent and eager learners, excelling in obedience, problem-solving, and scent work. Their working-dog background makes them highly responsive to training.

A Highly Intelligent Breed

• Quick Learners: They grasp commands quickly and enjoy structured training.
• Eager to Work: Their desire to please makes them highly cooperative.
• Strong Problem-Solving Skills: Their intelligence allows them to navigate obstacles and follow scent trails efficiently.

Ownership Impact

• Consistent Training is Essential: Without structure, they may become excitable or overly enthusiastic.
• Mental Stimulation is Key: They thrive on interactive play, scent work, and agility training.
• Positive Reinforcement Works Best: They respond well to praise and rewards but can be sensitive to harsh corrections.

English Springer Spaniels are highly capable and benefit from engaging training methods that challenge their minds and keep them focused.

English Springer Spaniels are naturally playful and may use their mouths during play or exploration. While not excessive chewers, they benefit from proper training and appropriate outlets.

Mouthy Behaviour

• Teething Stage: Puppies may chew frequently while their adult teeth come in.
• Exploration: They use their mouths to investigate their environment.
• Retrieving Instincts: Their history as hunting dogs makes them enjoy carrying objects.

Ownership Impact

• Early Training is Crucial: Teaching bite inhibition helps prevent unwanted chewing.
• Provide Chew Toys: Durable toys satisfy their chewing needs and keep them engaged.
• Encourage Appropriate Play: Training them to retrieve toys rather than nip ensures good habits.

With proper guidance and structured play, English Springer Spaniels learn to manage their mouthy tendencies while still enjoying interactive games.

English Springer Spaniels have a moderate to high prey drive, a reflection of their origins as hunting and retrieving dogs. They are naturally drawn to moving objects and enjoy chasing birds, small animals, and even toys.

Strong Hunting and Chasing Instincts

• Scent-Focused Hunters: Their exceptional sense of smell makes them keen on tracking scents.
• Natural Retrievers: They enjoy carrying objects and retrieving games, a trait that can be channelled into training.
• Chase Instinct: They may pursue birds, rabbits, or small animals when outdoors.

Ownership Impact

• Leash Training is Essential: Reliable recall is important, as they may become distracted by scents or movement.
• Supervision Around Small Pets: While they can live with smaller animals, introductions should be done carefully.
• Provide Outlets for Prey Drive: Activities like scent training, retrieving games, and agility help satisfy their instincts.

With proper training and controlled environments, English Springer Spaniels can manage their prey drive while still enjoying their natural instincts.

English Springer Spaniels are adventurous and curious, often following their noses when outdoors. If not properly trained, they may wander off in pursuit of an interesting scent or movement.

Independent and Driven

• Scent-Driven Exploration: Their tracking ability means they may follow scents without realising how far they’ve gone.
• Energetic and Playful: They enjoy running and exploring new environments.
• Moderate Wanderlust Potential: They prefer staying close to their owners but may follow an interesting scent, requiring proper recall training.

Ownership Impact

• Secure Fencing is Important: While not escape artists, they should have a safe, enclosed area to prevent wandering.
• Recall Training is Essential: Teaching a strong recall command helps keep them from straying too far.
• Keep Them Engaged: Providing structured exercise and mental stimulation reduces the urge to explore independently.

With proper training and an engaging environment, English Springer Spaniels remain attentive to their owners while still enjoying their love for exploration.

English Springer Spaniels are moderate barkers who use their voice to communicate excitement, alertness, or frustration. While they are not overly noisy, they may bark more than some breeds.

Barking Tendencies

• Alert and Responsive: They bark to notify their owners of visitors, unfamiliar sounds, or excitement.
• Vocal When Excited: Playtime, greetings, or spotting wildlife may trigger barking.
• Not Prone to Howling: Unlike some breeds, howling is not a common behaviour.

Ownership Impact

• Training Helps Control Barking: Teaching a “quiet” command can prevent excessive vocalisation.
• Proper Socialisation Reduces Reactivity: Exposure to various sights and sounds helps them remain calm.
• Identify Barking Triggers: If barking becomes excessive, addressing boredom or frustration can help.

English Springer Spaniels are communicative but not excessive barkers, making them suitable for owners who can provide guidance and mental stimulation.

English Springer Spaniels are high-energy dogs that require daily physical and mental exercise. Bred as hunting companions, they thrive on structured activities that engage both their bodies and minds.

Exercise Requirements

• At Least 60–90 Minutes Daily: Walks, retrieving games, and free running help burn energy.
• Love of Water: Many enjoy swimming and are excellent water retrievers.
• Mental Stimulation is Crucial: Scent work, agility, and obedience training keep them engaged

Energy Levels

• Puppies: Highly energetic, requiring structured play and controlled exercise.
• Adults: Thrive on active outdoor adventures and structured training.
• Seniors: Still enjoy exercise but benefit from lower-impact activities like swimming and shorter walks.

Ownership Impact

• Not for Sedentary Lifestyles: They need consistent activity to prevent boredom and unwanted behaviours.
• Off-Leash in Safe Areas: They enjoy running freely but should be in secure spaces due to their strong scent-tracking instincts.
• Engagement is Key: They prefer interactive exercise over being left alone in a backyard.

With the right mix of physical activity and mental challenges, English Springer Spaniels remain happy, well-behaved, and fulfilled companions.

English Springer Spaniels are naturally playful and full of energy. Their enthusiasm for interactive games and outdoor adventures makes them a fun-loving breed that thrives on engagement with their owners.

Playful Personalities

• Energetic and Enthusiastic: They enjoy active play, including fetch, swimming, and agility.
• Always Ready for Fun: Their playful nature extends well into adulthood, making them great companions for families.
• Sociable and Engaging: They love interacting with people and other dogs, often initiating play.

Ownership Impact

• Encourage Daily Play: Regular interactive play strengthens their bond with their owners.
• Provide a Variety of Activities: Agility, scent work, and retrieving games keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
• Supervise Rough Play: Their exuberance may be overwhelming for small children or less playful dogs.

English Springer Spaniels bring joy and energy to any household, making them a great choice for owners who enjoy an active and playful companion.