Welsh Springer Spaniel / Welsh Springer, Welsh Cocker Spaniel, Welsh Starter, Welshie

Breed history:

 There are records of this breed since the year 900. It may be the ancestor of all Spaniels from the UK. Until the late 19th century the breed was known as the Welsh Cocker Spaniel and was officially acknowledged in 1906. It is similar to the English Springer Spaniel.

Description:

 It is a medium-sized, harmonious and strong dog, with a symmetrical constitution. The skull is slightly rounded, the muzzle is of medium-sized length, straight, square and it has a brown or black nose. The eyes are medium-sized, oval and dark brown. The ears are placed at the eyeline, have medium length, kept drooping, leaflike. The tail can, or not be docked and is carried horizontally or slightly higher. The fur has medium length, soft hair, longer on the chest, abdomen and legs and short on the head. It is red, with white and red freckles.

Personality:

 It is an intelligent, gentle, sociable, quiet, friendly dog. It is loyal and obedient to its master, affectionate and patient with children and friendly even with strangers. It gets along well with other dogs and other animals.

Grooming:

 The fur needs regular brushing and combing and a professional trimming 3-4 times a year. The excess hair between the footpads and ears should be removed, not to block the ear canal.

Living conditions:

 It is a dog that easily adapts to the offered conditions - outdoors or in an apartment, on condition it gets daily exercise, because it's a dog with a high level of activity. It likes long walks, running, playing and swimming. If it catches an interesting scent it can leave its master's side or the yard if not well enclosed.

Training:

 This dog is easy to train, because it understands easily what is required of it. To get the desired results, the training must be consistent, gentle, encouraging, the dog being very sensitive to its master's voice. It has to be taught to come when called not to leave by itself.

Usefulness:

 It is an excellent grubber and fetcher in bird hunting, even in frozen waters. It is a cheerful and pleasant companion.