Welsh Springer Spaniel

Breed Rating

Breed Attribute

Breed Details

User Comments

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Welsh Springer Spaniel originated in Wales and was bred to hunt and locate game for their masters. The exact lineage of these dogs is not known but it is thought that the English Springer Spaniel, Brittany Spaniel, and English Cocker Spaniel might be their relatives. Their name ?Springer Spaniel? comes from they way these dogs hunt down their prey which when they are located, will ?spring? upon them!

This breed is a significant weight for their height and are solidly built. Their ears are long, floppy and are perfect to listen for the movement of quiet prey. The Welsh Springer Spaniel has muscular legs, and a long slender tail that is docked according to owner preference. They have a long, powerful muzzle that is used to carry large game in and big friendly eyes.

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is an energetic, happy breed that loves affection from the family. They develop very strong bonds with their owners and will need a lot of attention and time spent with them to be truly happy. The Welsh Springer Spaniel adores children and will make an excellent family pet because they will also get along with other dogs and smaller pets, such as cats.

Color

The Welsh Springer Spaniel will come in one colour variation which is the white & red. They are allowed different patches or markings throughout their body, but the colouring must stay the same or they will be disqualified in the show ring.

Coat

This breed has a smooth, straight coat that cascades from their chest, underbelly and tail. Curly hair will be a disqualification as they must have a coat that is plushy and flat which is needed for this breed to protect them from the elements they hunt in.

Personality

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a laid back, caring family pet that will be a great addition to one person or a family. They need a large amount of attention but will also enjoy time spent to themselves. Once they have a bond with the family or their master, this cannot be broken and they will be near them at all times. Their loyalty is renowned and are often said to be their owners shadow! This breed will need to be socialized at a young age around other people and dogs to ensure they will not be aggressive nor shy as adults. They will need an owner who is gentle yet firm and fair to raise them because the Welsh Springer Spaniel must have stability and correct rules set into place. Obedience and hunting/retrieval training is suggested to start at a very early age as they can be stubborn if taught later.

Care

The Welsh Springer Spaniel will need a minimal amount of grooming to upkeep their coat. Brushing once per week and bathing every 1-2 months will be excellent. They are prone to ear infections, hip dysplasia, eye ailments such as entropian and possibly epilepsy.

Training

These dogs will need a patient, gentle owner to teach them obedience or any type of retrieving or hunting training. Lessons should be kept short and made to be fun so the dog relates training and working to an enjoyable experience. They already have a high motivation to please their owners, but will need repetition and consistency to perfect the commands!

Activity

The Welsh Springer Spaniel will need about an hour of exercise per day which can be done at a dog park playing with their friends, chasing a ball, or even on a walk. This breed has a tendency to become quite lazy, so even if they choose to not want to go out on a particular day, they should be encouraged! These dogs will do well in an apartment and will not need a backyard but access to one would definitely be a bonus.