Welsh Springer Spaniel

Welsh Springer Spaniel - Breed Profile:

Origin: Wales
Colors: Red and white
Size: Medium
Type of Owner: Novice
Exercise: Vigorous
Grooming: Little
Trainability: Easy to train
Combativeness: Not generally dog-aggressive
Dominance: Low
Noise: Average barker

Physical characteristics

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a medium size dog with a strong compact build and silky coat. The Welsh Springer is a bit smaller and lighter than the English Springer, and a bit taller and larger than the English Cocker Spaniel. The length of the body can be slightly longer or equal to the dog's height. The legs are well-boned but free from coarseness. The chest is well-developed and muscular. The topline is level. The shape of the head is fairly circular. The length of the muzzle is approximately the same as the length of the skull. The stop is clearly defined. The oval eyes are brown. The pendent ears are relatively small. The tail is carried horizontally or slightly elevated. It's usually docked, although can be left natural as docking tails is illegal in most parts of Europe. The gait is smooth and powerful.
Welsh Springer Spaniels weigh 38 to 48 pounds. The height is 17 to 19 inches.

Temperament

Active, loyal and possessing an even disposition, the Welsh Springer Spaniel is an excellent companion for both families and hunters. Joyful and affectionate, this breed loves to be with its people. Can be wilful at times, but proper human leadership should eliminate this. Smart and trainable. The earlier you start the training process, the better the dog will respond to it. Sensitive to the tone of one's voice, the dog will not listen if it senses it is stronger-minded than the owner. Nor will it respond well to overly harsh discipline. Daily exercise, both physical and mental, are necessary to keep the dog happy. This breed is generally good with other pets, especially if raised with them. Proper socialization is necessary to avoid timidity. Some individuals may have a protective streak.

Coat and grooming

The coat is naturally straight, silky and soft to the touch. It should not be wiry or wavy, let alone curliness. It is dense enough to protect the dog from water, thorns, and weather. Moderate feathering is present on the back of the forelegs, the hind legs above the hocks, chest and underside of the body. The ears and the tail are slightly feathered as well.

Photo by Bernt Rostad

Rich red combined with white is the only colour this breed comes in. White areas may be flecked with red ticking. Weekly grooming is necessary, although extra care should be given in shedding periods.

Health

Hip dysplasia is a significant problem in this breed. Some lines are subject to epilepsy and entropion. The ears must be checked regularly for foreign objects and infectious insects. The lifespan is 12 to 15 years.

Welsh Springer Spaniel

Physical characteristics

Temperament

Coat and grooming

Health

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