Welsh Springer Spaniel

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is active, affectionate and loyal. They can be somewhat aloof around strangers, but are usually not shy or unfriendly. They are well known for their gentleness especially towards children in the family. They are also able to accept other pets around the house. They can be quite possessive of their owners and tend to stick to them. This has earned them the nickname of ‘velcro dogs’.

These dogs are quick learners and it is easy to train them. However, they are easily distracted by other interesting things in their surroundings. With proper training, they can learn to control this tendency and become obedient dogs. These dogs were bred for active lifestyles and need a healthy dose of work and play to keep them well mannered. Otherwise, they might become disruptive to release their pent up energy.

Some experts say that the Welsh Springer Spaniel shares its ancestry with the Brittany Spaniel, which is primarily used in bird hunting. Springer Spaniels were originally called Welsh Spaniel and also known as Welsh Cocker. The breed was created to hunt rabbits, birds and other small animals living in undergrowths. It was the dog’s job to get these animals to run or fly and then jump on them. This is how the term ‘Springer’ originated.

During the Renaissance, a dog very similar to the Welsh Springer, known as the Land Spaniel, was used to retrieve game during hunts. These dogs usually had long coats with red and white markings. Welsh Springers were very popular with nobility in the 1700s. They were, however, later replaced by English Springer Spaniels.

In 1902 it was recognized by The Kennel Club of England and in 1906 by the American Kennel Club. In recent years, Springer Spaniels have been used to develop a new breed of hunting dogs. This breed is known as the Sprocker Spaniel and it has the good qualities of Springers without any of the less desirable traits.

The coat of the Welsh Springer Spaniel does not require a lot of maintenance. Typically, daily brushing with a stiff brush is enough. When the dog is shedding, more brushing may be required. Bathing and shampooing should be done with caution and only when absolutely necessary. Welsh Springers are able to fit in comfortably into apartments but need enough exercise. They should ideally have access to a medium sized yard.

Welsh Springer Spaniels are almost square built, but their length is slightly greater than their height. This breed can grow any where between 17-19 inches (43-48 cm) and weigh between 40-45 pounds (18-20 kg). In some countries the tail is docked. The dew claws may also be removed. Their eyes are generally brown but can also be yellow. Yellow eyed dogs are not allowed in dog shows. Like most spaniels, their ears are long and hang down. The nose can be black or a shade of brown. Dogs with pink noses are penalized in the show ring.