Description

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a compact, medium-sized dog with a silky dark red & white coat. The hair is straight or slightly wavy, flat, and medium-length with feathering on the chest, undersides, legs, and tail. The head is slightly rounded and the muzzle is fairly square. The longish pendant ears are fringed with hair, somewhat like a setter's. The eyes are either hazel or dark-colored. The Welsh Springer is a bit smaller and lighter than the English Springer, and a bit taller and larger than the English Cocker Spaniel.

Origin

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is an outstanding and hardy gun dog developed in Wales, probably before 1300 AD. The early history of the Welsh Springer is similar to that of the English Cocker, English Springer Spaniel, and other spaniels of British origins. All the early spaniels were called Cockers or Cocking Spaniels. There was no kennel club to regulate breeding, so the different types were often interbred. Later, spaniels divided into Water Spaniels and Land Spaniels. Many early writings mention a "Welsh Cocker," which might have been the forerunner of today's Welsh Springer Spaniel. Through the years, more divisions were made. Springers were separated from Cockers. The Welsh and English Springers became separate breeds sometime before 1900. The American Cocker Spaniel developed even later. The Welsh Springer has great stamina and can work for hours on end without getting tired in all kinds of weather and on difficult terrain. The name comes from the fact that the breed is talented at finding and "springing" hidden game. His tail starts wagging faster when he discovers game. The Welsh Springer has a tendency to wander too far from the hunt field, and it therefore is necessary to give it constant training - beginning at about six months of age. The jolly disposition of the Welsh Springer makes him a fine companion and family dog. Some of the Welsh Springer's talents include: tracking, hunting, retrieving and watchdogging.

Temperament

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is happy and willing. He is less outgoing than the English Springer. Somewhat independent, but also sensitive and reserved with strangers. Socialize this dog well to avoid timidity. Some may be protective. The Welsh Springer needs to be included in family activities. He must be trained early to hunt so he learns not to wander. This breed is generally good with other pets, especially if it is raised with them from puppyhood, and is excellent with children.

Height

Height: Dogs 17-19 inches (43-48 cm.) Bitches 16-18 inches (41-46

Weight

Weight: Dogs 40-45 pounds (18-20 kg.) Bitches 35-45 pounds (16-20 kg.)

Known Health Problems

Prone to hip dysplasia. Some lines are subject to epilepsy and entropion.

Conditions for Living

The Welsh Springier Spaniel will do okay in an apartment if it is sufficiently exercised. It is fairly active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. The Welsh Springer's coat keeps the dog comfortable in both hot and cold weather.

Exercise Requirments

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is an energetic and lively dog that needs will greatly enjoy running off the leash in a safe area. Without enough exercise, these dogs will become bored, fat and lazy and are more likely to develop a wide variety of behavior problems.

Life Expectancy

About 12-15 years.

Grooming

The Coat of the Welsh Springer Spaniel is fairly easy to maintain and regular brushing with a stiff bristle brush will suffice. Pay extra attention however, when the dog is shedding. Bathe or dry shampoo only when necessary. Check the ears regularly for grass seeds and signs of infection. Trim the hair between the toes and keep the nails clipped. This breed is an average shedder.

Group

Gun Group, AKC Sporting Group