Welsh Springer Spaniel - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) Origin
This is an old dog breed and it is hard to trace their origin precisely. It is believed, that this type of a dog, known as a Land Spaniel appeared on old artworks during the . The modern Welsh Springer was developed for specific hunting style. He was supposed to find game, such as rabbits or partridge hidden under cover and flush it out to the hunters net.

2) English Springer Spaniel
Very often, the Welshie is confused with the English Springer Spaniel and until the 1920 the breed was shown alongside the English Springer Spaniel. But those are two different breed with important differences. Welsh Springer Spaniel is smaller and they have reddish markings instead of the liver markings. On this photo you can see both breeds, the Welsh on left and English on right.

3) Loyalty
If you are looking for a loyal and devoted dog, than you might just found the right dog for you. The loyalty of the Welsh Springer Spaniel is extraordinary, they will become your shadow following you from one room to another. This is just a great companion for active people, because they are also affectionate, playful and friendly.

4) Watchdog
It is true, that this is extremely loyal and affectionate dog with its owner and family. On the other hand, they are alert, suspicious and reserved with people they do not know, with strangers. This is a reason why proper early socialization with as much strangers is needed. It is also a reason, why the Welshie can serve as a great watchdog.

5) Coat
I guess that everyone just must love the coat and color of the Welsh Springer Spaniel. They can only be in one color variation, which is rich red on white background. Any pattern is acceptable and any white area may be flecked with red ticking. The coat is always soft and straight and it should not be wiry or wavy.

6) High energy
These dogs were used to work for hours every single day, so its no wonder, that they are highly active. The Welsh Springer is always ready for action or adventure. And they need a lot of exercise to be happy and healthy, it can be anything, starting from long walks, to hikes or swims. They can walk all day even in rough terrain. They are good retrievers, so they will enjoy fetching a lot. Welshie can also participate in dog sports like agility, tracking events or flyball.

7) Size

This is a medium sized athletic dog breed with average height between 43-48 cm, which is 17-19 inch and weight is typically between 16-21 kg, which is 35-45 pounds. The females are naturally little bit smaller than males.

8) Maintenance
If we would not consider the dogs high exercise needs, than the maintenance is pretty simple. A weekly brushing with a stiff bristle brush will do the job. You should brush the coat more often if you come back from the woods, so it does not become matted and during the shedding season to minmize the shedding. Just like with all dogs you should regularly check their eyes ears and nails and clip them or clean them. Take proper care about the floppy ears, which are prone to infections.

9) Training
This is very intelligent breed with high desire to please, which makes them highly trainable and quick to learn. On the other hand, the Welsh Springer is headstrong breed and they know how to be stubborn, which is why they need firm and patient trainer to become obedient. They have lets say soft personality and do not respond well to harsh training methods.

10) Health
This is generally healthy and hardy dog breed with average lifespan between 12-15 years. Just like all dogs, they can suffer from some health issues, commonly from hip dysplasia, entropion, cataracts, glaucoma or progressive retinal atrophy.