Welsh Springer Spaniels: A guide to dogs and puppies of the Welsh Springer Spaniel breed

The Welsh Springer Spaniel!

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a hardy sporting dog that is especially popular in Wales and Western England. It has small ears that hang close to the cheeks and a tail that is clipped short. The straight, silky coat forms a feathery fringe on its belly, legs and ears which is soft to the touch. It is often referred to as the Welsh Springer and was used to be known as the Welsh Cocker. It is an attractive dog that comes in a convenient size. Its body allows for hard work and endurance with a coat thick enough to offer protection from the weather.

Some Quick Facts:

Life Expectancy:
12 to 14 years

Energy Level:
Average.

Living Conditions:
Not ideal for apartments.

Barking:
Average.

Exercise Needs:
Daily 40 minute walk; 20 minute jog; yard play..

Breed Group:
Sporting

Size:
Medium-Small

Height:
17 to 19 inches

Weight:
35 to 45 pounds

Standard Hair Colors:
Combination of rich red and white which may occur in a variety of patterns.

National breed club:
The Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of America

Welsh Springer Spaniel Skills

A Welsh Springer Spaniel was and still is known as the “starter” in Wales, being a highly favored sporting dog. The breed still possesses its hunting instincts and makes an exceptional gun dog and bird dog. It was originally bred as a working spaniel to flush out game. It is also a good hiking companion and is fairly successful in dog shows.

Welsh Springer Spaniel Personality

A Welsh Springer Spaniel is a popular choice as a family pet due to its good-natured disposition and natural bonding with the whole family especially the children. It is also friendly and quite playful with other household pets. A puppy of this breed is high in energy and needs early socialization. Welsh Springer Spaniels thrive on human companionship and do not like to be left alone all day. It is usually reserved with strangers but is not timid, shy or unfriendly.

Exercise Needs

Regular exercise is a must for a Welsh Springer Spaniel. It may consist of walking, running, hunting or retrieving. Happiness and contentment is easily achieved after exercising. Failure to provide sufficient exercising opportunities may result to misbehavior such as chewing on household items. There is also the tendency to become fat and lazy. This breed was developed specifically for work and endurance.

Living Conditions

Kennels are definitely not for Welsh Springer Spaniels. A house with a fenced yard is a more suitable living environment for this breed. However, the owner should provide opportunities for varied activities such as hunting, retrieving or agility work.

Grooming Requirements

The average shedding in a Welsh Springer Spaniel can be controlled by brushing and combing with a stiff bristle brush at least three times a week. Shedding occurs twice a year and may require extra attention. Bathing or dry shampooing can be done when necessary. The owner should check the ears for any signs of infection. Trim hair between the toes and clip the nails. An occasional trip to a professional dog groomer is preferable.

Health Issues

A Welsh Springer Spaniel is generally a healthy breed but is susceptible to hip dysplasia, epilepsy and eye problems.

If you liked this dog…

...there is a possibility that you might like an English Springer Spaniel which is likewise a popular sporting dog with a compact body, strong legs and a short tail. During the 18th century, the Welsh Springer Spaniel was shown along with this breed, with color as the only recognizable difference during that time. They are believed to have come from the same stock.