Loving Life With a WSS
Welsh Springer Spaniels (WSS or Welsh) are happy, active and loyal dogs, forming strong bonds with their people. Game for pretty much any activity, this intelligent and gentle breed is typically biddable, thriving while playing or working with their owners. Originally bred as working hunting dogs in Wales, WSS were recognized by The Kennel Club in the UK in 1902 and by The American Kennel Club in 1914. They are also recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club. They are loving, family companions to people with active lifestyles, engaging in activities with their Welsh such as hunting, scent detection, agility, obedience, and more. Check out the history of the breed by John Phillips, Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of South Wales
Welsh Springer Spaniels are generally a healthy breed. Principled and dedicated breeders screen their breeding dogs for hip and elbow dysplasia, inherited eye disorders as well as thyroid disease and these health tests are conducted by veterinary specialists with results submitted to the Orthopaedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) in the U.S., which are then added to the database.
CH Long Lane’s Seafaring Maiden @ Stannyfield “Dylan”
“This type of dog was bred for hunting rabbits, birds and other game in the undergrowth and getting them to run or fly, originally for the falcon but nowadays, for the gun. This was the original meaning of springing and hence the term “Springer”. In the Principality of Wales, the Welsh Springer was known as a separate and distinct variety and can be traced with certainty to the eighteenth century, although the term “spaniel” was first found in the 1300′s.”
Responsible ownership of a Welsh requires diligence and consistency in a few areas as listed below.
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Welsh Springer Spaniel owners should commit to grooming their dog on a regular basis. Their beautiful, double coats allow for dirt and grime to be brushed off when it dries. They should be brushed several times per week at a minimum, bathed regularly (as required), claws trimmed as necessary, and ears kept clean. While the breed is meant to be in its "natural" state, ear and feet trimming keeps the WSS clean and tidy. WSS owners can either do this at home or visit a professional groomer every few months. Access some good resources on grooming the WSS by visiting the Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of America's website.
WSS are moderate shedders, so expect to have some hair cleanup. Regular brushing will help minimize this.
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WSS owners should commit to training their dogs for a number of important reasons, including the three below.
Shape the Behaviours You Want
The most obvious reason is to hone wanted behaviours and minimize unwanted, sometimes dangerous, behaviours. In our opinion and based on our experience raising two breeds of gun dogs--GSPs and now our first Welsh--a solid recall is critical. We play games with our puppies that focus on building value in having a close proximity to us, which reinforce returning to us consistently when called. The dogs still follow their noses, ranging away from us in the field, but also happily return to us when asked. Other behaviours that are important to us are loose-lead walking, four feet on the floor, and respecting boundaries.
Mental Stimulation is Important
WSSs are intelligent, requiring mental stimulation as much as physical outlets. They thrive when working with their owners and if not given the opportunity to engage and grow their minds, WSSs will find their own, often destructive or even dangerous outlets. We engage in evidence-based training methods that we and our Welsh enjoy and the result is a happy, engaged dog that is relaxed in her crate or hanging out at the end of the day.
Building a Healthy, Strong Bond
Training enhances the bond that develops when we engage in such activities with our dog. Overcoming challenges, celebrating successes and everything in between result in stronger bonds, which in turn have lasting health and other benefits for both dogs and people.
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Being an active breed that is part of the Sporting Group, Welsh require daily exercise to maintain a healthy body weight and condition. If not given a physical outlet, WSS can become frustrated and destructive, much like with the lack of mentally stimulating activities. A balance of physical and mental stimulation is the best recipe for raising a sound and happy Welsh.
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Using a containment system as a puppy/dog-raising tool is a must in our kennel. There are a number of reasons that a securely fenced yard, crate and exercise pens or similar are important. Our most important reasons are detailed below.
Prevent Separation Anxiety
WSS are sometimes called "velcro dogs", meaning they bond closely to their people. If not managed, they can develop separation anxiety. Training a dog to value their crate and exercise pen time supports the development of confidence and comfort when alone.
Keep Your Puppy/Dog Safe
When raising a puppy, particularly a breed of puppy that has been bred to have a strong nose, a crate or pen is a tool to keep your puppy safe when you can't supervise. Busy puppies can get themselves into trouble really quickly and a crate can help prevent ingestion of toys, socks etc., chewing on furniture and more.
Travel with Ease
Travelling with a dog or puppy who loves their crate is so much easier. Whether in the vehicle, at the cottage, at a dog sporting event or elsewhere, having a crate trained dog creates a safer, healthier and more convenient experience for all.
Living with a WSS is a joy, especially when an owner is diligent about providing their Welsh with opportunities to develop their mental and physical attributes so they can shine.
References
The American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Welsh Springer Spaniel. Retrieved April 9, 2022, from https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/welsh-springer-spaniel/
The Kennel Club. (n.d.). Springer (Welsh Spaniel). Retrieved April 9, 2022, from https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/search/breeds-a-to-z/breeds/gundog/spaniel-welsh-springer/
Welsh Springer Spaniel Club. (n.d.). The Breed. Retrieved April 10, 2022, from https://www.welshspringerspaniel.club/the-breed/
Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of America. (n.d.). WSSCA Education. Retrieved April 9, 2022, from https://www.wssca.com/html/wsscaEducation.html
Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of South Wales. (n.d.). The Breed. Retrieved April 9, 2022, from http://www.welshspringerspanielclubofsouthwales.co.uk/the-breed