The Welsh Springer Spaniel

The Springer Spaniel was bred as a hunting dog, specifically for hunting rabbits, birds and other game in the undergrowth and getting them to run or fly and this is how the term “Springer” came into being and hence the name. In the Principality the Welsh Springer was know as a separate and distinct variety of Springer Spaniel and it’s roots can be traced with certainty to the eighteenth century although the term ”Spaniel” in fact dates back to around the 1300’s.

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a strong, merry, active Spaniel easily identified by its rich red and white coat and comparatively small ears. It is smaller than the English Springer and larger than the Cocker Spaniel with dogs measuring approximately 19 inches and bitches 18 inches.

Whilst many Welsh Springer Spaniels are still used for hunting many are also kept as pets. They are happy to live in the home or kennelled with a companion but can become noisy if bored. At least one good free run every day is important. Even if not being trained to hunt, some training is essential in order to have a sociable and socialised pet. Welsh Springer Spaniels, in particular males, have immense energy and a strong nose for scent, even if you do not!

How popular is the breed? According to the kennel club, in 2006 there were 350 Welsh Springer Spaniels registered compared to 15,000 English Springer Spaniels which perhaps shows why the Welsh Springer Spaniel is less well known than the English.

For more information on the Welsh Springer Spaniel visit the Welsh Springer Spaniel Club’s web site at www.wssc.org.uk.