The Welsh Springer Spaniel is an all purpose hunting dog bred for endurance on the field. The breed has a weatherproof coat that makes ideal for hunting, flushing and retrieving small upland game. They are affectionate dogs that will bond strongly with their family. Their coat requires minimum maintenance with a stiff bristle brush.

The Appearance

Height: 16-9 inches
Weight: 35-45 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12-15 years.

Welsh Springer Spaniels used for hunting tend to be smaller than the show variety and their ears are not as long.

They are a compact, medium-sized dog who's length should be slightly greater than its height. The head is somewhat rounded, the eyes are either hazel or dark-colored and the muzzle is square. The long pendant ears are fringed with hair. The tail is customarily docked and the dew claws are removed.

The white and reddish brown coat is straight or slightly wavy, medium-length with feathering on the chest, undersides, legs, and tail. Any color pattern is acceptable and white areas may be flecked with red. This breed's coat is weatherproof and gives protection thick brush and cold temperatures.

Using in the Field

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a compact dog ideal for tracking small game and flushing out upland birds. In addition, this all around hunting dog can be taught to retrieve on land and in the water. They have a great stamina for working in all kinds of weather and on difficult terrain. These dogs are excellent at tracking, hunting and retrieving but will not point.

The breed is intelligent but has an independent streak that can be interpreted as being "deaf to commands," and the dog has a tendency to wander particularly while in an environment full of distractions. Constant training will be needed to maintain discipline with these lively dogs.

At Home

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is independent and less outgoing than other Springer Spaniels. They tend to bond intensely with their human families and get along fine with other pets and children. They can be sensitive somewhat reserved with strangers so early socialization is needed to prevent these dogs from becoming timid. They can be protective and make fine watchdogs.

They are a very lively dog and will need plenty of exercise and chances to run off leash. Without proper exercise they can become bored and overweight. Be mindful that these are dogs bred for hunting and they must be trained to recall and not to wander. They have a weather proof coat that needs little maintenance and will be comfortable in hot or cold weather.

The History

This breed has previously been known as the Welsh Spaniel, and then Welsh Cocker Spaniel. Some dog breed experts claim that the Welsh Springer Spaniel shares the same ancestry as the Brittany Spaniel. Until 1902, this breed and the English Springer Spaniel were considered to be the same breed. Since it was declared a separate breed, and has been popular as a hunting dog and show dog.