The big paws of the Sussex Spaniel were ideal for coping with the heavy clay soil of Sussex where Augustus Fuller of Rosehill Park developed the breed from the leggier Field Spaniel to be a working, flushing spaniel. It soon became a favorite companion for hunters on foot because the breed was smaller and slower.
To this day, the breed’s dual-purpose ability is retained. In some European countries, a Sussex must have wins at a Field Trial and conformation shows in order to obtain the full title of ‘Champion.
The Sussex was among the first ten breeds recognized by the AKC, but the breed has never really gained the popularity it has in England. One of these days, the secret will out that this is a sweet, calm, and loyal dog.
Sussex Spaniels by Lilian Cheviot (1894 to 1924) – a copy of this print is available for purchase here