Welsh Springer Spaniel

The Welsh Springer may be the oldest surviving breed of Spaniel, with mentions of ‘Welsh Spaniels’ and references to red and white spaniels dating back as far as the 10th Century. It must be understood however that there were many localized types of land spaniel and working ‘bird dogs’ originating from similar dogs brought from western Europe and across the UK. The various spaniel breeds were not recognised and separated from one another until the mid to late 1800’s onwards and so there is very much a ‘shared ancestry’ within the spaniel breeds.

The Welsh Springer Spaniels versatile working ability and strong hunting instincts made them popular world-wide however and by the 19th century they were regularly exported abroad and became known around the world as both working dogs and show dogs.

This lively, joyful breed requires owners with some spaniel experience or at least, experience of other clever, active and energetic types. Easy to train, ideal owners will be those who enjoy dog training as a hobby and who spend a lot of time out walking and/or are involved in dog sports of some kind. Great family dogs for outdoorsy active people able to give this busy dog the exercise they need.

Two hours or more per day, in the form of walking, running, following scent and retrieving toys or game. Welshies often love swimming and retrieve well from water. This is a busy, active dog and though they can relax and be calm at home, this is unlikely without sufficient and varied exercise, both mental and physical.

The Welsh Springer is not hard to house in terms of space but a secure garden is a must and access to long countryside walks with a variety of routes is important. Their long coat and ears can pick up debris and carry a lot of water so space to dry and groom a Welshie is useful. Better suited to country and rural suburbs than inner city, as this is a busy dog who likes a lot of outdoor space and may well find the constant sounds of traffic and city noise stressful.

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed him at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of his particular food.

This breed does not need a lot of grooming but the feathering will need regular combing, brushing and trimming – two or three times a week. The ears should be trimmed regularly to prevent infections and the paws checked daily for foreign bodies and matted fur between the paw pads.

The Welsh Springer adores their family and will be easy to train with the right motivation. Expect an eager and active dog who wants to be with their person, doing something fun most of the time, whether that’s walking, running, or taking part in canine sports. Positive reinforcement-based training will get the best out of this bright, clever dog and they actively enjoy learning new tasks. 

Like all Spaniels, Welsh Springer’s love to carry items in their mouths and this breed trait must be understood and training given from an early age to retrieve to hand and swap found items for acceptable substitutes or treats. Resource guarding can be an issue if this is not understood or if the dog is punished for collecting and carrying objects. 

Due to their desire to locate and carry around found objects, the Welsh Springer is better with older children who understand not to chase or chastise the dog and can keep belongings tidy. A well-trained Welsh Springer makes a good family pet for outdoor active families, as long as their training and exercise needs can be met.  

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.