WELSH SPRINGER SPANIEL
APPEARANCE
The build of the Welsh Springer Spaniel should be slightly off square, meaning that the length of the dog should be slightly greater than the height at the withers. However, some dogs may be square, and this is not penalized in the show ring as long as the height is never greater than the length. In some countries the tail is generally docked and the dew claws are removed. Eyes should be brown in colour; yellow eyes do sometimes occur but are not acceptable for the show ring. Ears are pendulous and lightly feathered. Nostrils are well developed and are black or any shade of brown; a pink nose is to be severely penalized in the AKC standard for the show ring, in Britain it is a recognized (and probably the original) type. A scissors bite is preferred.These dogs weigh in at around 35-40 pounds for females and 40-45 pounds for males. The height of the Welsh Springer Spaniel is around 17-18 inches for females, and 18-19 inches for males.
PERSONALITY
The Welsh Springer Spaniel is an active, loyal, and affectionate breed. Some might be “reserved” with strangers, but should not be timid, shy, or unfriendly. The breed is well known for being affectionate to all members of the family, especially children, and accepting other pets of the household with a friendly, playful attitude. They can be very clingy toward their owners earning them their nickname “velcro dogs.”
TRAINING
The breed is a quick learner but is sometimes “deaf to commands”, especially if there is something more interesting in the environment. With correct training, they can become very obedient dogs. The Welsh Springer was bred for work and endurance, and as such needs exercise to keep healthy and content. Without adequate exercise, a dog may become bored and design its own (usually destructive) means of keeping busy, often to its owner’s displeasure.
EXERCISE
The Welsh Springer Spaniel will need about an hour of exercise per day which can be done at a dog park playing with their friends, chasing a ball, or even on a walk. This breed has a tendency to become quite lazy, so even if they choose to not want to go out on a particular day, they should be encouraged!
SOCIALIZATION
The Welsh Springer Spaniel does not like to be handled roughly, and although he gets along well with kids care should be taken with smaller, boisterous children. The Welsh Springer Spaniel gets along well with other pets. In order to instill confidence early socialization is recommended with the Welsh Springer Spaniel. This is the perfect pet for an active person or family, with plenty of love and devotion to give back to their pet.
LIVING CONDITIONS
Kennels are definitely not for Welsh Springer Spaniels. A house with a fenced yard is a more suitable living environment for this breed. However, the owner should provide opportunities for varied activities such as hunting, retrieving or agility work.
GROOMING
You should brush the coat of the Welsh Springer Spaniel two or three times a week ot keep it looking silky and in good condition. You must trim the hairs around the bottom for hygiene reasons, and check that the ears are clean and dry to reduce the chances of infection. Also keep the hair between the toes trimmed. The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a medium shedder, and therefore may not suit those that suffer from allergies.
HEALTH ISSUES
The Welsh Springer is generally a healthy breed, but some can suffer hip dysplasia, eye problems and, like other dogs with large heavy ears, they are prone to ear infections. The average lifespan is 12 to 14 years.
HISTORY
The Welsh Springer Spaniel originates from Wales, and is closely related to the English Springer Spaniel. With a history that dates back several centuries, he is one of the oldest spaniels and was bred as a gun dog. Today the Welsh Springer Spaniel makes a wonderful companion dog and family pet. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1914.
