Welsh Springer Spaniel
Also known as Springer Spaniel Galés
Great Britain, Flushing Dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 46–48 cm
- Weight
- 16–20 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Affectionate
- Active
- Eager to please
- Friendly
- Sociable
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Welsh Springer Spaniel
The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a medium-sized gundog from Wales, used to flush and retrieve game. It is compact and sturdy, with a silky, flat or slightly wavy coat in rich red and white. It is a tireless worker with a gentle expression and a friendly, devoted nature.
Temperament
Affectionate, active and eager to please, though it can be a little reserved with strangers. It is generally good with family and children, and needs plenty of company.
Exercise
Needs lots of daily exercise, including off-lead running, swimming and retrieving. It is energetic and enjoys having a job.
Grooming
Silky coat with feathering; brush several times a week and keep ears, feet and feathers tidy.
Care & wellbeing
Check and clean the drop ears regularly, especially after swimming. Dry the coat and check for burrs and ticks after country walks.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 18 kg adult- Water
- 720 ml–1.1 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 980 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Welsh Springer Spaniel
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A red-and-white spaniel from Wales, used to flush game and retrieve for the shooting field. It is energetic, friendly and hardy, with plenty of stamina.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Ear infections
- Eye problems
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scores
- Eye tests
Not every Welsh Springer Spaniel is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Welsh Springer Spaniel right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Welsh Springer Spaniel get?
Adult Welsh Springer Spaniels typically stand about 46–48 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 16–20 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Welsh Springer Spaniels live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Welsh Springer Spaniel need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Welsh Springer Spaniel need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Welsh Springer Spaniels easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Welsh Springer Spaniels shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Welsh Springer Spaniels good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Welsh Springer Spaniel live in a flat?
It can work — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Welsh Springer Spaniels have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections, eye problems. Not every Welsh Springer Spaniel is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Great Britain
- Type
- Flushing Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1954