Welsh Springer Spaniel

Initially, these canines were bred as working gundogs and as such are lively and active dogs. However, during more recent years, this affectionate breed has found its way into the homes and hearts of many dog lovers. This is of course, due to their charming looks and reliable temperaments and also the fact that they are brilliant and sociable around children. A Welsh Springer Spaniel will be totally devoted and loyal to his owner.

Although this breed is a little mischievous at certain times, on the whole they are very playful dogs. They love to entertain and enjoy any interactive playtimes.

Above all else, these are working dogs, but they also have very gentle mannerisms. However, this mild-manner also makes them detest any harsh treatment or criticism, as they are sensitive dogs too.

These Welshies are very intelligent dogs and their aim is to please their master. In the correct environment and in the right hands, they are a delight to train. In addition to their working gundog skills, they also excel in obedience trials.

Although the Welsh Springer Spaniel is a very sociable pet, he also has an amazing nose that allows him to track down prey very easily. However, with the correct training routines, you can teach him to answer to the command “leave it” when requested.

This breed can be quite reserved around anyone other than his immediate family. To overcome this issue, early socialisation as a young puppy is imperative. This will prevent him from being shy and timid around strangers.

Due to the nature of the work they are required to do in the hunting field, these dogs often look to their masters for guidance, rather than working independently. Because of this, although they are eager to please, they are not usually strong, independent canines.

A Welsh Springer will form a strong bond with his family and likewise, he thrives on human contact. When left on his own for long periods of time, he won’t be very happy. This breed of dog is much better suited to a family where someone remains at home during the day, so the dog isn’t left for lengthy periods. He may become stressed and be destructive around the home, as a way of venting his anxieties.

Providing the pup’s training begins at a young age, this dog will be quite happy and eager to learn new tasks. The Welsh Springer is known to excel at a variety of canine agilities, including obedience skills, agility sessions and fly-ball, too. This dog loves nothing more than to train with his handler and to take part in joint tasks. A very smart dog who will be very focussed and keen to learn new skills, although try to avoid repetition and make sure to keep the training sessions interesting.  Positive reinforcement is preferred, rather than any heavy handed methods. As they can sometimes be rather stubborn at times, too, lots of understanding and patience on the handler’s part is needed.

In normal, everyday circumstances, this breed isn’t known to bark unnecessarily. However, a dog left alone for long periods can quickly become bored, often with the resulting bark to gain attention.

As a working and hunting dog, he does need lots of exercise each day. It is advisable to spend any exercise period’s off-leash in a confined location, as this breed often tends to wander.