Welsh Springer Spaniel
Quick Summary
Versatile sporting companion ideal for active families. Combines gentle temperament with athletic ability. Best suited for owners who can provide exercise, training, and regular grooming.
Contents
Weight Range
35-55 lbs
♂ Male: 40-55 lbs
♀ Female: 35-50 lbs
Height Range
43-48 inches
♂ Male: 18-19"
♀ Female: 18-19"
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #84
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Sporting Group
Originally bred for Developed in Wales during the 1800s as skilled hunting companions, these spaniels excelled at flushing and retrieving game in challenging Welsh terrain
Popularity
#128
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 18"-19" |
| Female Height | 18"-19" |
| Male Weight | 40-55 lbs |
| Female Weight | 35-50 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 2/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $1,200-2,000 for purebred puppies. Monthly expenses cover quality food ($50-70), grooming supplies, and preventive veterinary care. Consider insurance for potential health issues.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Welsh Springer Spaniels display a balanced temperament combining gentle affection with sporting energy. Their friendly nature makes them excellent family companions, while their working heritage drives their need for activity and purpose.
Social Needs
Thrives on family interaction and forms strong bonds. Generally good with other dogs but may be reserved with strangers. Can handle moderate alone time with proper exercise and mental stimulation.
Breed Overview
Welsh Springer Spaniels feature a distinctive red and white coat, medium-sized athletic build, and gentle expression. Their well-proportioned frame combines strength with agility, standing 18-19 inches at the shoulder. Known for their soft, feathered coat and pendulous ears, these dogs exhibit a balanced blend of working ability and companionable charm. Their alert, friendly expression reflects their warm temperament.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent family companion
- ✓ Good with children
- ✓ Trainable
- ✓ Athletic
- ✓ Affectionate
Cons
- ✗ Needs regular exercise
- ✗ Regular grooming required
- ✗ Can be reserved with strangers
- ✗ Moderate shedding
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Happy, Reserved, Upbeat |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Easy Training |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise including vigorous activities like running, swimming, and retrieving games. High-intensity workouts should be combined with mental stimulation through training exercises and scent work.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 2-3 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Active breeds need protein-rich diets with proper fat content. Consider supplements for joint health and coat maintenance.
Feed 2-3 cups of premium dry dog food daily, split into two meals. Choose formulas appropriate for sporting breeds with adequate protein (25-30%) and fat (15-20%). Adjust portions based on activity level.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Adapts well to suburban or rural settings with adequate outdoor space. Thrives in homes with fenced yards for regular exercise. Moderate climate tolerance with proper shelter.
Requires moderate living space with access to secure outdoor areas. Adapts well to suburban environments but needs room for exercise. Fenced yard highly recommended for safe play and training.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Welsh farmers developed these distinctive red and white spaniels in Wales, crafting a versatile hunting companion capable of working in rough terrain. Their unique coat pattern distinguished them from other spaniel breeds.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Wales during the 1800s as skilled hunting companions, these spaniels excelled at flushing and retrieving game in challenging Welsh terrain.
Fun Fact
Their distinctive red and white coat pattern has remained unchanged for centuries in Welsh hunting circles.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Weekly grooming sessions needed to maintain coat. Requires consistent exercise routine. Regular eye checks and hip evaluations recommended for preventive care.