Temperament: The Sussex Spaniel needs lots of daily exercise and this will help the dog to be calm indoors. This dog is more reserved than most of the Spaniel family. This dog loves to hunt and will be keen and enthusiastic throughout the hunt, rarely staying still. Their ability to bark is shown in the hunt where they will bark non-stop. This is also a great companion dog and loves all they meet and are gentle with lots of loyalty. This breed is wonderful with children and can get on with cats in the home. This dog is part of the family of Spaniels but has less energy and is not as playful. They want, and need, a good pack leader to bring out the best in this breed.

The Sussex Spaniel are in need of good consistent training, as they can be slow to learn. But with firm, not harsh, training and good leadership they do get there. Keep it clear to the dog that you are the owner and that your rules are set, this will avoid problem issues such as being snappy. This breed needs good regular exercise daily. As this dog is prone to weight gain it is important that it has daily opportunities to walk and exercise, to keep the weight down, if not this can cause back problems, for the Sussex Spaniel. They love to follow smells and will like to swim if the opportunity comes up. This dog loves the outdoor life and will like to have a run in fields and woods. If not enough exercise is given one of the things they do is howl to let you know they need more walking.

Health issues: As with a lot of Spaniels the Sussex Spaniel can get ear problems. They can also have intervertebral disc syndrome, heart murmurs, enlarged heart and can put on too much weight so good control of portions and snacks are important. As with any dog it is very important that you make sure they are up to date on all vaccinations, de-wormings and heart worm preventatives. It is also suggested by the majority of licensed veterinarians that you take your puppy or dog in for a check up at least twice each year.

Grooming: For the Sussex Spaniel, you have to brush the coat regularly and have the coat plucked when you see lighter hair as this is dead. Care for the ears weekly and check that the bottom of the feet any hair is cut regularly.

Living conditions: The Sussex Spaniel can do well in an apartment if they have been walked daily. They will need a garden but this does not have to be big.