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Welsh Springer Spaniel: Breed characteristics and information

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Characteristics

Active: 
Affectionate: 
People Friendly: 
Pet Friendly: 
Protective: 
= low level
     = high level
Photo credit © Isabelle Francais
Welsh Springer SpanielWelsh Springer SpanielWelsh Springer SpanielWelsh Springer SpanielWelsh Springer SpanielWelsh Springer SpanielSee all photos for this breed
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The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a medium sized hunting breed.
They are know for their loving disposition and rich red and white coat.


Physical Characteristics

  • Medium, muscular build
  • Coat: Medium-length hair, soft to the touch, waterproof
  • Feathering on chest, undersides, legs and tail
  • Medium-length ears are fringed with hair
  • Coloring of red and white with red ticking
  • Oval eyes that are dark to medium brown
  • Height: 17-19 inches
  • Weight: 35-45 pounds
  • Average lifespan: 12-15 years

Temperament

  • Active, energetic, outgoing, loyal, affectionate
  • Interaction with people: Good family dog; excellent with children. May be timid with strangers, but not unfriendly
  • Interaction with animals: Good with other pets if socialized at a young age

At Home

  • OK for apartments
  • Adaptable to different climates
  • Needs regular exercise
  • Great hunting companion

Grooming

  • Easy to groom
  • Average shedder
  • Brush regularly with a stiff-bristle brush
  • Check ears for signs of infection
  • Trim between the toes

Brief History

  • Originated in Wales
  • Ancestors date back to 7,000 B.C.
  • Developed as a hunting dog in Europe
  • Tapestries during the Renaissance show dogs similar to the breed
  • Was a favorite hunting dog of the noble class during the 1700s
  • Breed was brought to the U.S. after World War II

Fido's Facts

  • Originally known as the Welsh Cocker
  • Nicknamed the "Velcro dog" because of its tendency to follow its family

Medical Conditions



While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
For more information about this breed and breeder referral
contacts, please visit the Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of America.
 
For breed rescue opportunities visit WSSCA Rescue.