The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a breed of dog and a member of the spaniel family. Thought to be comparable to the old Land Spaniel, they are similar to the English Springer Spaniel and historically have been referred to as both the Welsh Spaniel and the Welsh Cocker Spaniel. They were relatively unknown until a succession of victories in dog trials by the breed increased its popularity. Following recognition by The Kennel Club in 1902, the breed gained the modern name of Welsh Springer Spaniel. The breed's coat only comes in a single colour combination of white with red markings, usually in a piebald pattern. Loyal and affectionate, they can become very attached to family members and are wary of strangers. Health conditions are limited to those common among many breeds of dog, although they are affected more than average by hip dysplasia and some eye conditions. They are a working dog, bred for hunting, and while not as rare as some varieties of spaniel, they are rarer than the more widely known English Springer Spaniel with which they are sometimes confused.
The Welsh Springer Spaniel was developed in the valleys and hills of Wales, specifically designed for hunting in dense woods and rugged terrains.
The Welsh Springer Spaniel is known for its distinctive red and white coat. As a working breed, it excels in hunting, specificially in flushing and retrieving game. This breed is loyal and affectionate, often forming strong bonds with family members. They are less common than their English counterparts, contributing to their somewhat unique status in the dog world.
An image of English and Welsh Cockers, published in 1859
Ch. Corrin, a show dog owned by Mr A.T. Williams, photographed in two poses in 1903.
A Welsh Springer Spaniel on left, and an English Springer Spaniel on right
Welsh Springers are affectionate and inquisitive
Welsh Springer Spaniel in a dog harness.
A photograph of a Welsh Springer Spaniel from 1915.
Trainability
Responsiveness to training: —/5