Welsh Springer Spaniel vs Drever
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Sporting Group
Drever
Foundation Stock Service
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Welsh Springer Spaniel 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.
Drever Overview
Drevers are compact, muscular hunting dogs with distinctive long bodies and short legs. Their well-proportioned frame supports a broad chest and strong neck, topped by a noble head with long, drooping ears. The breed's weather-resistant double coat comes in various colors, featuring alert, intelligent eyes that reflect their keen hunting instincts and determined nature.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Welsh Springer Spaniels are more energetic than Drevers, requiring more daily exercise.
- Grooming: Welsh Springer Spaniels require more grooming attention compared to Drevers.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Welsh Springer Spaniels tend to be more reserved with strangers than Drevers.
- Trainability: Drevers may be slightly easier to train due to their Drever's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Drevers adapt better to apartment living, while Welsh Springer Spaniels typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Welsh Springer Spaniel and Drever, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Welsh Springer Spaniel | Drever |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Small |
| Life Expectancy | 12-15 years | 15-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Sporting Group | Foundation Stock Service |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Welsh Springer Spaniel | Drever |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 17-19 inches 43-48 cm | 12-15 inches 30-38 cm |
| Weight | 35-55 lbs 16-25 kg | 35-40 lbs 16-18 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Unknown | Occasional |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Welsh Springer Spaniel | Drever |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Happy, Reserved, Upbeat | Loyal, Even-Tempered, Determined |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Welsh Springer Spaniel | Drever |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Welsh Springer Spaniel Temperament
The Welsh Springer Spaniel is known for being happy, reserved, upbeat, making them excellent family dogs. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. With their high energy levels, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Drever Temperament
The Drever is characterized by being loyal, even-tempered, determined, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They generally welcome strangers, making them sociable companions rather than protective guardians. Their moderate energy level makes them versatile companions that can adapt to your activity level, though regular exercise is still important.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Welsh Springer Spaniel and Drever, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Rating: 5/5
Drever
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Rating: 4/5
Drever
Rating: 5/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Rating: 4/5
Drever
Rating: 3/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Rating: 1/5
Drever
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Rating: 3/5
Drever
Rating: 2/5
Care & Maintenance
Welsh Springer Spaniel Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Welsh Springer Spaniels require significant daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and more vigorous activities like running, swimming, or fetch.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Welsh Springer Spaniels require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Drever Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Drevers need regular daily exercise, including about 30-60 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and moderate activities like walking and interactive play.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Drevers require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Welsh Springer Spaniel Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- Entropion
Drever Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Back Problems
- Eye Issues
- Ear Infections
- Obesity
Pros & Cons
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Pros
- Excellent family companion
- Good with children
- Trainable
- Athletic
- Affectionate
Cons
- Needs regular exercise
- Regular grooming required
- Can be reserved with strangers
- Moderate shedding
Drever
Pros
- Excellent tracking abilities
- Good family companion
- Adaptable to different environments
- Low grooming needs
Cons
- Can be stubborn
- Requires secure fencing
- Moderate exercise needs
- May be vocal
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Welsh Springer Spaniel and Drever, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.