Overview
Average lifespan
Welshies live up to 15 years, although some have lived to 17.
Average height & weight
46cm to 48cm
15kg to 25kg
Care requirements
Breed personality, characteristics & temperament
The Welsh Springer Spaniel is red and white and does not come in any other colour. It is a busy, active and happy dog, and extremely loyal and loving to its family and it makes a terrific watchdog. Welsh Springer Spaniels may be reserved with strangers, but they should not be timid or shy. Socialisation with pups should begin as soon as possible and continue throughout its life. Training should be fair and consistent, using modern, gentle techniques. It should be kept in a well-fenced yard, as they have been known to wander once they put their nose to the ground. They require daily exercise and stimulation and if left alone in the back yard, may result in excessive barking and destructive behaviour.
Compatibility with other pets
Welshies are a fairly good with other dogs and cats, provided the owners are consistent and thoughtful to the hierarchy of the household. However, bear in mind that it is a gundog and will show a ‘real interest’ in birds and rabbits.
Care requirements
Apart from the routine care requirements of all dogs, such as worming, vaccinations and flea treatment, Welshies need their paws trimmed regularly and under the pads. Their ears need to be trimmed around the edge of the ear (leathers), underneath the ears and around the ear canal opening to prevent ear infections and allow air to the area.
Welsh Springer Spaniels can suffer from hereditary problems such as hip dysplasia, eye diseases and epilepsy. Both parents should be X-rayed and hip scored. Both parents should have a current ‘specialist’ eye certificate.
Decision time
Ideal owners
The ideal owner for a Welsh Springer Spaniel is someone, or a family, who is prepared to share their life with a dog. Welshies delight being out and about with the family.
Decision time (resources provided by Kennel Club):
Before making a decision on getting a puppy, here are some articles you might find helpful:
What do I need to consider when thinking of buying a puppy?
How do I find the right breeder, what should I ask them?
How do you check if the breeder is reputable?
What to ask your vet prior to buying a puppy?
Where to find dogs (resources provided by the Kennel Club):
Breeders
Adoption
Shelters
Find out about important information about purchasing dogs from pet shops and traders