Welsh Springer Spaniel is a gun dog. Red and white spaniels portrayed in paintings during the Renaissance look very much like the Welsh Springer Spaniels of today. Although this breed shares the name Springer Spaniel, the Welsh is not directly related to the English Springer Spaniel. The Welsh breed developed in the isolation of South Wales and is a hardy, tireless gun dog.
Welsh Springer Spaniel dogs stand from 17 to 19 inches tall and weigh 30 to 50 pounds. The head is of medium width and length, with medium brown, oval-shaped eyes and dropped ears. The body is slightly longer than the dog is tall at the shoulder. The tail is docked. The coat is soft and flat. The ruff, ears, backs of the legs, and belly are feathered. The coat should be weatherproof and thorn-proof without being so heavy as to create a problem when the dog is hunting. The coat is red and white. The coat should be brushed at least twice a week to keep it clean and free of dirt and grass seed. If the dog works in the field or gets wet, it may need additional grooming.
The Welsh Springer Spaniel was bred to work tirelessly with a hunting partner, so he has a great deal of energy. When not hunting, he needs a good run every day. These dogs also enjoy agility and flyball; many are also enthusiastic swimmers. All exercise should be on leash or within a fenced-in yard so the dog doesn’t decide to go hunting on his own. Socialization should begin early, as this breed can be aloof toward strangers. Training the Welsh Springer Spaniel is not hard; these dogs are bright, affectionate, and eager to please. They can be a touch independent at times, though.
The Welsh Springer Spaniel dog breed needs an owner who wishes to have a canine shadow. Although Welsh Springer Spaniels enjoy the company of others of their breed, they much prefer to spend time with their owners. They are great with children and other dogs and are usually good with smaller pets. Health concerns include hip dysplasia and eye problems.
One reply on “Welsh Springer Spaniel”
The dogs pictured are not Welsh Springer Spaniels…they look like Brittanies. A Welsh has a domed skull, longer muzzle, long body, shorter legs, long ears, large spaniel medium to dark brown eyes,and NEVER gold eyes. The Brittany has a triangular skull, mostly gold eyes, longer legs, shorter, alert ears as shown above.