Welsh Springer Spaniel

Considered amongst the oldest spaniel breeds, the Welshie is said to have been observed in artworks dating to the sixteenth century. As indicated by its name, the breed was usually seen in Wales and the western region of England. Although its exact breeding origins are not known, it is speculated to have been the result of crossing gundogs and hounds.

The Welsh Springer Spaniel was then utilised to herd livestock. From England, the reputation of this faithful canine spread and became a prized pooch in various parts of Britain. It later became popular beyond British shores in the ninteenth and twentieth centuries, reaching as far as India. Although originally known as Welsh cockers, the breed’s name was modified to Welsh Springer Spaniel. This was done in 1902, when it was acknowledged by The Kennel Club.

The Welshie is a medium-sized canine that has an average height of 43–48 cm and an average weight ranging from 16 to 20 kg. Its body is a bit longer than its height and is compact and strong. It has a finer head than its English cousin and is built for hard work out in the field.

Its muzzle is somewhat long, straight, and square, with noses ranging from flesh to dark colour. Its ears are on the smaller side, tapers to the tip, and folds down to rest near its cheeks. It has hazel or dark eyes and long, muscular necks.

The Welsh Springer Spaniel has strong hindquarters and muscular second thighs. Its powerful hind legs complete the well-developed rear trio of muscle groups. The front ones are straight, medium-length, and well-boned. These end in round-shaped feet with thick pads underneath. The tail is rather feathered.

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is affectionate, protective of its family, good-natured, and good with children. It also can be friendly with other animals in the home. As such, it is a fantastic pet for families, although small children should be supervised when playing with this dog. Its energetic nature might accidentally knock small kids over.

With strangers, the Welshie can be aloof and wary, even possibly barking at them when in their territory. This makes it a good watchdog. However, with its owners, it is eager to please and very devoted. Due to its tendency to form strong bonds with its humans, this canine does not thrive well being left alone.

This pooch is a moderately energetic dog with an impressive stamina and a love for the outdoors. It has impressive tracking abilities and a nose for birds. Are Welsh Springer Spaniels smart? Yes! Its intelligence makes it easy to train. This, plus its friendly nature, also makes it a suitable pet for first-time dog owners.

In training a Welshie, one must be firm and offer positive reinforcement. Early socialisation helps it become a balanced and more docile dog.

Welsh springer spaniel puppy that’s 2–6 months old should be fed 190–300 g of food daily, depending on its size and activity level. For one that is 8–10 months old, provide 210–264 g of food daily. When it turns 12 months and beyond, you can feed it pet adult food.

The adult Welshie weighing 16 kg should be fed about 195–260 g of food daily, taking into consideration its activity level. For 20 kg and above, the average daily meal portion ranges from 230–310 g.

• Hip Dysplasia
• Ear issues
• Primary Epilepsy
• Glaucoma Goniodysgenesis

How much is a Welsh Springer Spaniel puppy? A well-bred Welshie puppy may cost about £400 to £1,500 or more. Insurance may cost about £23 (basic) to £43 (lifetime) monthly. The food expenses may cost about £40–£50 per month. For vaccinations, boosters, annual checks, and other veterinary costs, pet care expenses may add up to more than £1,000 per year.

On average, a Welsh Springer Spaniel owner will spend about £70–£100 per month. The insurance costs can also influence these cost estimates. For its lifetime (12–15 years), the costs can range from £10,080 to £18,000 overall. This estimate does not include the expenditures incurred in buying a puppy, though.