Welsh Springer Spaniel: temperament, size, care and health

About the Welsh Springer Spaniel

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a compact, athletic, medium-sized dog with a rich red and white coat. The silky, dense coat is flat or slightly wavy with modest feathering, which makes it easier to manage than the coat of some other spaniels. The ears are small, fine and set low, and the expression is soft and intelligent.

Welsh Springers were used to flush game birds from hedgerows and woods and then retrieve them, and they are known for stamina over rough ground and wet weather. They remain rare outside Wales, England and North America. Owners tend to be hunters or active families who like the combination of toughness and loyalty.

Temperament and family life

The Welshie is affectionate and loyal with its family, but it is usually more reserved with strangers than the English Springer, and some are shy if not well socialized. It usually enjoys children, though it may be sensitive to rough play. Many are good with other dogs, and a few can be dominant with their own sex.

The breed is cheerful and busy and often follows its person around the house. It can develop separation anxiety, and a bored dog will bark, dig or chew. Welsh Springers tend to be a little more sensitive than their English cousins and respond poorly to harsh methods. A calm, steady household suits them well.

Exercise and training

A Welsh Springer needs a good deal of exercise: an hour of brisk walking, running or swimming a day is a reasonable baseline. Retrieving is a natural pleasure. Without adequate outlets the breed can become restless and noisy, and it tends to explore with its nose.

Training should be consistent, positive and fun. Welsh Springers are intelligent and willing, but they may be stubborn or easily distracted when a scent is in the air. They do well in obedience, rally, agility, tracking and hunt tests. Early socialization is a priority, since reserved puppies can turn timid. A fenced yard is advisable because the breed follows a trail readily.

Grooming and shedding

The coat is easier to keep than a Cocker's but still needs attention. Brush two or three times a week, with extra care for the feathering on the ears, chest, legs and tail. Trimming the feet, the back of the legs and the ears keeps the dog neat. Shedding is moderate, with a heavier loss in spring and fall.

The ears are small but hang down, so check and clean them weekly, particularly after wet outings. After time in the field look over the coat for burrs, thorns and ticks. Bathe only when the dog is dirty, because the coat sheds dirt fairly well when dry.

Health

The Welsh Springer is generally a healthy and long-lived spaniel. Hip dysplasia is the main joint concern. Eye problems such as glaucoma, cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy occur, and so do ear infections, epilepsy and hypothyroidism. Responsible breeders examine hips and eyes and may test thyroid and other markers, and they should share the results. Keeping the dog lean helps its joints. This summary is general, and a veterinarian is the person to consult about a particular dog.

History

The breed is generally traced to Wales, where red and white spaniels were used for centuries to hunt game. For a time the Welsh and English Springer were treated as one type, and the Welsh was recognized as a separate breed by The Kennel Club in Britain in 1902. The Welsh Springer came to the United States in the late nineteenth century and was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1906. It has stayed uncommon, and enthusiasts have worked to preserve its working ability.

Is the Welsh Springer Spaniel right for you?

A Welsh Springer suits an active household that wants a medium-sized sporting spaniel with a steadier temperament and can give it company, exercise and moderate grooming. It is a good partner for hikers, hunters and families with older children.

It is not a good choice for someone who is away most of the day or wants a gregarious greeter. The English Springer Spaniel is bigger and more outgoing. The Field Spaniel is similar in size and calmer. The Brittany has a similar working purpose with a shorter coat.