Typically referred to as the "Welshie", this hardy gun dog was developed in Wales. Favored by wealthy Englishmen as an all-purpose hunting dog, this breed excelled in water and land for use with all types of game. The Welsh Springer Spaniel derived their name from their style of hunting, "springing" in the air to flush out game ahead of their hunting companion.
The Welsh Springer Spaniel is compact and muscular. This is an attractive breed, exhibiting substance, and built for endurance. Although the Welsh Springer Spaniel possesses many attributes this breed is often over-looked by their English Spaniel cousin. As a result they are rarely seen in the United States and may be difficult to obtain.
This breed is affectionate, happy, and excellent with children. They are active, loyal, friendly, and exhibit a playful attitude. The Welsh Springer Spaniel is accepting of other pets. They may be reserved with strangers, but are not shy, timid, or aggressive. Although they are somewhat independent, this breed thrives on being included in family activities and does not do well if left alone for extended periods of time. They are amiable and trustworthy companions.
The Welsh Springer Spaniel requires regular brushing with a stiff bristle brush. Special care must be given during shedding. Bathing or dry shampooing should only be done when necessary. It is important to regularly check and clean the ears. This breed is prone to hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and entropion.
The Welsh Springer Spaniel has a coat that is naturally straight, soft in texture, thick, and flat. The coat is weatherproof and provides protection from temperature extremes as well as briar bushes and thorns. There is feathering on the chest, underside of the body, and the back of the legs. The tail and ears have light feathering. This breed's coat color only comes in red and white, with many pattern variations. They are average shedders.
This versatile breed is eager to learn but can be headstrong. They require early socialization and basic obedience. Their primary love is hunting, so early training in this sport is highly recommended to keep them from roaming. Training should be done with firmness, fairness, and consistency.
The Welsh Springer Spaniel is highly energetic and lively. They require a tremendous amount of exercise off the leash, and prefer a large yard or open space. This breed will do okay in an apartment provided they are sufficiently exercised. They are fairly active indoors and benefit from play sessions. The Welsh Springer Spaniel excels in tracking, hunting, retrieving, and swimming. If this breed is not properly exercised on a consistent basis they will become bored, lazy, and overweight.
35-45 lbs
Male: 18-19; Female: 17-18 inches
Rich red and white
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