Welsh Springer Spaniel Breed Guide
Also known as: Welsh Springer, Welsh Spaniel, Welshie
Red and white spaniels, Welsh Springer Spaniels are gentle, energetic sporting dogs whose moderate size and friendly nature suit active sporting households.

Quick facts about this breed
Size
Medium
Weight
16-20 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Medium
Weight
16-20 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
Medium
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
About Welsh Springer Spaniels
The Welsh Springer Spaniel originated in Wales during the 18th century, developed from ancient spaniels native to Wales. These dogs were bred for hunting game birds, prised for their excellent scenting ability, stamina, and gentle retrieving skills.
Welsh Springer Spaniels are medium-sized dogs with silky, feathered coats in rich red and white colours. They're known for their gentle expressions, feathered ears, and friendly, eager-to-please personalities.
These dogs are intelligent, gentle, and make excellent family pets. They're generally good with children and are known for their loyal, affectionate nature. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation, excelling in hunting and various dog sports. Their coats need regular grooming to prevent matting. While generally healthy, potential concerns include hip dysplasia, certain eye conditions, and epilepsy. Early socialisation helps ensure they develop into well-adjusted, confident adults.
Complete Care Guide for Welsh Springer Spaniels
Expert advice on keeping your Welsh Springer Spaniel healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Providing optimal nutrition for Welsh Springer Spaniels requires careful attention to their unique dietary needs and activity levels. These energetic dogs thrive on high-quality protein sources that support their muscular development and maintain their natural vigour throughout daily activities.
Portion control plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy weight, as Welsh Springer Spaniels can become overweight without proper dietary management. Establishing regular feeding schedules and measuring portions helps prevent excessive weight gain, which could impact their joint health and overall mobility.
Adjusting nutrition based on life stages ensures these dogs receive appropriate sustenance throughout their development. Puppies require specific nutrients for growth, while adult dogs need balanced maintenance formulas, and seniors may benefit from adjusted protein levels and joint-supporting ingredients.
Fresh, clean water should always be available, particularly given their active lifestyle. Monitor water consumption and refresh bowls frequently, especially during warmer months or following exercise sessions. This attention to hydration supports optimal organ function and helps maintain their energy levels for daily activities.
How healthy is your Welsh Springer Spaniel?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about Welsh Springer Spaniels from our community of pet parents
Welsh Springer Spaniels are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are highly sociable dogs that bond strongly with their families, often becoming particularly attached to one person. Despite their active nature, they are usually calm and well-behaved indoors, making them good companions. However, they can be somewhat reserved around strangers and need regular socialisation from a young age.
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