If you want the perfect place to put a Sussex Spaniel, it is back in Great Britain in the midst of a pack of dogs that are out game hunting. Seriously, though, this dog does love the hunt and is ideally suited for this activity. It originated in Sussex, England, from where it got its name, and has been used by the English in game hunting with great results. It's beautiful gold liver color blends it perfectly with the barks of trees at sunset, camouflaging it so that the prey does not even see it at times. The coat is water resistant too and the dog loves to swim, helping hunters to collect prey that has fallen in the water. It is a very active dog that will happily romp through the woods and bay when it finds something.
Since most dog owners are into the British hunting scene, you may be wondering what this has to do with you. The Sussex Spaniel can become a beloved household pet, as long as you remember what its roots are and try to accommodate those needs. It has a need for vigorous exercise daily and won't do well in an apartment setting where there is no place to run. It has been used to being around people and with other dogs and can suffer extreme separation anxiety if left alone in home all by itself. Then, the same traits that make it a great hunt dog will turn against you and you will end up with a miserable dog that chews things destructively, soils the house stubbornly, and barks constantly.
What this means is that the best environment for a Sussex Spaniel, outside of the game hunt, is its own backyard where it can happily pretend it is on its own private romp. It does well with other dogs and this can help relieve some of the separation anxiety it feels when you are away. It loves children and is polite with strangers, but needs to be very well socialized to be a great pet. It is not aggressive by nature.
The Sussex Spaniel does better in temperate climates than in hot weather. It can live outdoors, like it does in England, as long as the dog is brushed regularly and kept active. You will need to provide a shelter for warmth outside, like a doghouse. The yard should be fenced and it should be a medium to large yard. If you do decide to keep the dog indoors, you will have to deal with excessive shedding. Keep the dog groomed and exercised regularly, and this can cut down on a lot of annoying behavior making for a happy family.
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