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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Welsh Springer Spaniels are medium-sized, symmetrical, compact dogs. They have sleek,
silky coats with feathering on the following extremities: chest, underside, legs
and tail. The medium length hair is straight or a little wavy. The slightly rounded
head is well-chiseled, the stop is defined and the muzzle fairly squared. The long
ears should be set low and are fringed with hair. The medium-sized eyes should be
dark or hazel in color. The strong jaw has teeth that should meet in a scissor-like
bite. The long, muscular neck merges into sloping shoulders. The body is medium
in size and is well-built. The muscular legs should be straight and the second thigh
on the hindlegs should be deep and well-developed. The round feet have thick pads
and are cat-like in shape. The tail is customarily docked and should never be carried
over the back.
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Temperament
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Welsh Springer Spaniels are high-spirited, happy and good-natured dogs. They are
extremely devoted to their families. They not only get along with children but also
other household pets. They are people-oriented and need companionship; however,
they can be somewhat independent. They can be reserved or protective around strangers
but will never show aggression. They can be very sensitive and should be socialized
at an early age to avoid timidity.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 17-19" ; Weight: 40-45 lbs.
Female Height: 16-18" ; Weight: 35-45 lbs.
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Health Problems
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This breed is prone to hip dysplasia, epilepsy and entropion.
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Living Conditions
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The Welsh Springer Spaniel will do okay living in an apartment if it is sufficiently
exercised. It does best with an average-sized yard. This breed is comfortable in
all types of weather.
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Exercise
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This energetic breed has lots of stamina and needs lots of regular exercise. They
should be allowed to run in a safe area. Lack of regular exercise will cause this
breed to become bored and to gain weight.
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Life Expectancy
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About 12-15 years
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Grooming
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This breed is fairly easy to groom. Brush with a firm bristle brush and dry shampoo
when necessary. Check the ears for grass seeds and any sign of an infection. Keep
the nails clipped and trim the hair between the toes. They are average shedders.
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Origin
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The history of the Welsh Springer Spaniel is similar to all other English Spaniels.
The spaniels were developed in Wales, before 1300 AD. The early spaniels were all
called Cockers, or Cocking Spaniels. Breeding was not regulated and interbreeding
was common. Spaniels were eventually divided into Water Spaniels and Land Spaniels.
Numerous early writings refer to a "Welsh Cocker", which is a possible forerunner
to the Welsh Springer Spaniel. Over the years, the Springer and the Cocker Spaniels
were divided and the Welsh and English breeds were also separated. It has been thought
that since the 1600s, the Welsh Springer Spaniels, as they are known today, have
been in existence. They were mainly in Wales and the western part of England and
were being used for shepherding and cattle droving. The breed was eventually used
as gundogs and for breeding in the eastern part of England. During the 19th and
20th centuries, this breed became popular throughout the world due to their diverse
abilities and hunting instincts. The breed was known by the name of "Welsh Cockers"
until they were admitted into the British Kennel Club in 1902. They are also recognized
by the AKC and the UKC.
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Group
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AKC Sporting, UKC Gun Dog
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