Welsh springer spaniel - a loyal breed with a colourful coat
The Welsh Springer dog breed is a member of the spaniel family. Thought to be comparable to the old Land Spaniel, they are also similar to the English Springer Spaniel. Historically they have been referred to as both the Welsh Spaniel and the Welsh Cocker Spaniel.
The Welsh Springer spaniel is a medium-sized dog with a red and white coat, often with freckles, slightly smaller than the English variant. The coat is silky, naturally straight and flat to the touch rather than wiry or wavy. The downward-drooping ears are smaller and the body longer than those of the English springer spaniel. The eyes are medium to dark brown. The ears and tail are lightly feathered, while the legs, chest, and underside are feathered more heavily.
Both Welsh springer and English springer spaniels hunt game by flushing out their quarry, that is, "springing" on it from its hiding place. The dogs then fetch the downed game and bring it back to the hunter.
In temperament, the Welsh springer is known as a loving, affectionate and very devoted family dog who can be timid with strangers. Although physically energetic, they are relatively calm and good with children.
The origin of the Welsh Springer Spaniel is unknown, however dogs resembling the breed with its distinctive red and white coat are frequently depicted in old pictures and prints. This type of dog was known as the Land Spaniel, and is considered to be similar to the modern Welsh Springer.
Welsh springer spaniels have become sufficiently uncommon in Britain to be included on The Kennel Club's list of Vulnerable Native Breeds in recent years.
Further reading
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