Welsh Springer Spaniel Basics
The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a spectacular athlete that can be happy flushing birds in the fields or playing Frisbee in the yard.
Origin
It is believed that the Welsh Springer Spaniel originated in Briton, during the Roman occupation. During the Renaissance, a dog called the Land Spaniel was painted. This dog appears to have been the same as today’s Welsh Springer Spaniel. This breed was used to flush birds out of the brush so hunters could shoot them with arrows or have their falcons snatch them from the air. Nowadays, he still is a useful hunter but he is also happy to be a playful and loving family pet.
Pedigree
During the 1700s and 1800s, the Welsh Springer Spaniel was not popular with English sportsmen however; he was preferred in the South of Wales. All spaniels at that time were classified as one breed. Later, the breeds were separated into Welsh Springer Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel and English Cocker Spaniel. In 1914, the first Welsh Springer Spaniel was registered with the AKC but from 1926 through 1948, none were registered. After World War II, several more Welsh Springer Spaniels were brought to the United States. Although still not very popular in the U.S., this breed is still a favorite in Wales.
Food/Diet
The Welsh Springer Spaniel is an energetic fellow so he needs to be fed a diet of dry kibble formulated for active dogs. Dry food is essential to the dog’s oral health and can help to prevent bad breath, gum infections and tooth decay.
The Welsh Spring Spaniel is one of the easiest breeds to train.
Training
The Welsh Spring Spaniel is one of the easiest breeds to train. He is highly intelligent and thrives on pleasing his people. It is important that all training sessions be kept short and interesting for the dog. The Welsh Springer Spaniel has a short attention span when it comes to training sessions so lots of yummy treats are needed to keep his focus on the trainer. Calm and patient trainers will prove to be more successful than harsh and loud ones.
Welsh Springer Spaniels do well in a variety of dog show events. This breed excels in obedience, agility and hunting competitions. Of course, he can also compete in the breed ring.
Weight
On the average, Welsh Springer Spaniels weigh between 35 and 55 pounds and stand between 17 and 19 inches tall at the withers.
Temperament/Behavior
A friendly and affectionate dog with his family, the Welsh Springer Spaniel tends to be reserved when strangers are around. Constant socialization will help to keep this breed from becoming shy with guests. The Welsh Springer Spaniel loves to play and he loves kids too. He is the perfect playmate for active children who don’t mind getting wet and dirty once in a while. Whether it’s splashing in the pool, racing around the yard or having a game of fetch, this energetic guy will be happy to comply.
Although not an aggressive dog, the Welsh Springer Spaniel makes a good watchdog. He will readily bark to inform his family that someone or something is around. If confronted, he will retreat. This breed is non-confrontational.
The Welsh Springer Spaniel quickly becomes attached to his family. He wants to spend all of his time with them. When he’s left alone, the dog might experience separation anxiety. It’s best for the Welsh Springer Spaniel to have a stay at home parent or someone who can pop in and out of the house throughout the day. Without companionship, this breed can be quite destructive.
Common Health Problems
Cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy and glaucoma are common eye problems found in the Welsh Springer Spaniel. This breed also has a high incidence of epilepsy, which can be controlled with medications. Rarely has the breed had issues with hip dysplasia.
Life Expectancy
Welsh Springer Spaniels usually live between 12 and 15 years.
Exercise
Welsh Springer Spaniels are athletes and they have loads of energy. They crave running, playing and working. It is essential that they are jogged daily or have an open but fenced in area for playtime. This breed will happily flush birds from your yard or playfully romp around chasing a tennis ball. With active children, the Welsh Springer Spaniel and the kids will be tuckered out and dosing off on the couch by the end of the night.
This breed is very intelligent and needs to have his mind stimulated as well as his body. Toys that keep the dog thinking are essential for the Welsh Springer Spaniel. Ones that hide treats inside are truly beneficial. These toys should be left out whenever the dog is left alone or he can become destructive.
A friendly and affectionate dog with his family, the Welsh Springer Spaniel tends to be reserved when strangers are around.
Recognized Clubs
The American Kennel Club states: “Active, loyal and possessing an even disposition, the Welsh Springer Spaniel is an excellent companion for families and hunters alike. The breed is a “Velcro” dog and prefers to be with its people. Welsh Springers possess a stubborn streak, but respond well to training if it starts early. This athletic dog needs daily exercise and at least weekly brushing to maintain its coat”. The AKC first recognized the Welsh Springer Spaniel in 1914.
Coat
The coat of a Welsh Springer Spaniel is rather soft, straight and lies flat against the body. The double coat is weatherproof; this keeps the dog safe from the elements while in the field. There should be feathering on the legs, chest, undercarriage, ears and tail. Deep and rich, the coat is red and white.
Grooming is a snap for Welsh Springer Spaniel owners. Thorough brushing should be done a few times each week to remove debris and tangles from the coat. Bathing should be done only when needed.
Puppies
Welsh Springer Spaniel puppies should be started at Puppy Kindergarten Classes as soon as they are vaccinated. These classes will also help the puppy become acclimated to meeting new people and pets too!
