Welsh Springer Spaniel

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is one of the many lovely British spaniels. In fact, this breed is one of the oldest, and very closely related to their cousins the English Springer Spaniel. These dogs are great pets, and still brilliant in the field. Adaptable and charming, they can be a good fit for many types of families. Read on to learn more about the Welsh Springer Spaniel.

Description of the Welsh Springer Spaniel

Welshies were bred to hunt. They were developed to accompany gunmen in order to track birds and alert their companions. Originally the same breed, they split from the English Springer Spaniel about 100 years into their history.

They are quite beautiful, with gentle eyes and flowing ears. This breed is known for their tapered heads. Their coat is soft and silky, with distinctive red and white coloring.

Life Expectancy and Size

Most Welsh Springer Spaniels live relatively healthy lives, and can be expected to reach 12 to 15 years old.

This breed is medium in size, somewhere in between the Cocker Spaniel and the English Springer Spaniel. They stand 17 to 19 inches at the shoulder, and weigh 25 to 55 pounds.

Protective Ability

This breed is a surprisingly good watchdog. Although they generally friendly with strangers and steady, they may delight in pointing out new sights and sounds. Unfortunately, some Welshies may border on timid, so make sure to socialize them early.

Training

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a capable dog with a willingness to learn. However, these dogs can be distractible. To keep their attention, make sure to approach training sessions as fun. Maintain a light, breezy attitude and change things up regularly.

Welshies will quickly become sad if you get angry. Always be kind, as some individuals are skittish. A positive, rewards-based training plan is the best way to go with these dogs.

Energy Level

As sporting dogs, these spaniels need plenty of exercise, though they are very adaptable. It is most important that they have plenty of social time with their owners. These dogs will become quite sad if they feel like they’re being left out!

Most Welsh Springers are happiest when they are active.

What Living with a Welsh Springer Spaniel is Like

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is an enjoyable companion, especially for families. They are loving, calm, and have moderate exercise needs that should fall in line with most active owners. These dogs are also hard workers if you have a job for them to do.

This breed is usually polite with strangers and new dogs, if a bit reserved. If carefully introduced, they should be fine with children and other pets.

This breed has a relatively long life expectancy, and is a great, compact size.

Care of the Welsh Springer Spaniel

These spaniels have moderate exercise and grooming needs that should be manageable for most families.

Environmental Needs

This breed was specifically made to hunt in Britain’s harsh environments. They are outdoorsy dogs, and are able to withstand most temperatures. Of course, always provide adequate shade and water.

Exercise Needs

This social dog should be able to get most of his exercise by playing with the family. However, they also enjoy walks and outings. They usually enjoy anything with their family.

Of course, the Welsh Springer Spaniel is a capable hunter, and would be happy to join his owners in the field. This breed loves to be outdoors.

Shedding and Grooming

These dogs have a lovely coat that is very soft to the touch. It is actually specifically designed, though. The strands effectively protect these dogs from weather and thick underbrush.

Welshies should be brushed at least once a week to avoid mats. Expect a decent amount of shedding.

Ideal Home Environment

Ideally, the Welsh Springer Spaniel will find an active family that wants a steady companion. These dogs do fine with well-behaved children as they are gentle and kind.

These outdoorsy dogs have moderate exercise needs, but do enjoy their time outside. They should have access to a green space, or at least places to go for long and varied walks.

Health Concerns

These spaniels are hardy and healthy for the most part. They may have hip and eye troubles, especially as they age. Their floppy ears can also be prone to infection. Make sure to clean and check the Welsh Springer Spaniel’s ears and teeth regularly to avoid infection and disease. Some thyroid problems have been reported.

Behavior Problems

Generally, these dogs love their people and hate being separated from them. They may have some anxiety when left alone too long.

Finally, the Welsh Springer has a lot of hair and is sometimes oblivious. Put these things together, and you can get a very messy dog! Youngsters often urinate out of submission, although most grow out of it.