Welsh Springer Spaniel
Wales's own spaniel, older than the English Springer and more compact, with a distinctive red-and-white coat that's actually weatherproof. Welsh Springers are enthusiastic, affectionate, and steady — less manic than English Springers, more reserved with strangers. They've stayed a true dual-purpose breed: show dogs that can still hunt.
Free weekly training plan, specific to your Welsh Springer Spaniel’s age. Exactly what to focus on this week.
Get your free training planLiving with a Welsh Springer Spaniel
The Welsh Springer Spaniel isn't your average spaniel. Originating in Wales as a rugged hunting companion, this breed was bred to flush and retrieve game birds over rocky terrain and through thick cover. That working heritage still pulses through their veins today.
They’re part of the Sporting Group but carry a quieter intensity than some of their flashier cousins. Don’t let the happy, upbeat temperament fool you, this dog expects a job, or at least a very active daily routine. In real life, living with a Welsh Springer means sharing your home with a deeply loyal, affectionate dog that bonds closely with its family.
They’re reserved with strangers, which makes them alert without tipping into aggression. Kids? They’re fantastic with them, earning a full 5/5 on good_with_kids.
But that energy level. 4/5, means they’re not just lounging on the couch after dinner. They need real exercise.
Think long walks, hikes, fetch sessions, or dog sports like agility. Mental stimulation matters just as much. A bored Welsh Springer will find ways to entertain itself, and you probably won’t like those ways.
Grooming is where reality hits. That beautiful red-and-white coat sheds moderately. 3/5, and needs brushing at least three times a week.
Without it, tangles turn into mats fast, especially behind the ears and on the legs. It’s not high-maintenance like a Poodle, but it’s far from low-maintenance. You’ll also need regular ear cleaning; spaniels are prone to infections.
Health-wise, they’re generally solid for a purebred, with a lifespan of 12 to 15 years. But you should screen for hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, glaucoma, and epilepsy. A reputable breeder will provide health clearances, and that’s non-negotiable at this price point.
$1200 to $3500. These dogs thrive with active families, hunters, or anyone who wants a devoted, trainable companion. They adapt well to different homes as long as outdoor access is guaranteed.
But if you’re in an apartment without daily access to parks or trails, or you’re not up for brushing coats on weekends, look elsewhere. Here’s the thing most people miss: Welsh Springers aren’t just eager to please, they’re quietly intuitive. They read your mood, stick close, and work hard to keep the pack in sync.
That’s not just trainability (which is a solid 5/5); that’s heart.
14 traits, at a glance.
Every breed on PuppyBase is rated across the 14 trait dimensions the American Kennel Club publishes — from trainability to drooling level. The higher the score, the better the fit for that trait.
What to expect day-to-day
Things to screen for
See a full price breakdown — first-year costs, lifetime estimate, breeder vs. adoption.
Full price guideSimilar breeds
Browse all 200+
Common questions
How long do Welsh Springer Spaniels live?
Welsh Springer Spaniels typically live between 12 and 15 years, which is a solid lifespan for a dog of their size.
How much does a Welsh Springer Spaniel puppy cost?
A Welsh Springer Spaniel puppy usually costs between $1,500 and $3,500, with most buyers paying around $2,500 from a reputable breeder.
How much do Welsh Springer Spaniels shed?
They shed moderately year-round and will need regular brushing, especially during seasonal changes when shedding increases.
What colors do Welsh Springer Spaniels come in?
The only accepted color is red and white, with the red ranging from golden to deep chestnut and always appearing in clear patches or markings.
How big do Welsh Springer Spaniels get?
They stand 17 to 19 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 35 and 55 pounds, making them a compact sporting dog.
Are Welsh Springer Spaniels smart?
Yes, they are very intelligent and highly trainable, picking up new commands quickly and thriving on mental challenges.
Are Welsh Springer Spaniels hypoallergenic?
No, Welsh Springer Spaniels are not hypoallergenic and will shed dander and hair, so they're not a good fit for people with allergies.
Are Welsh Springer Spaniels aggressive?
They are not aggressive by nature, but they are reserved with strangers and need early socialization to prevent shyness or wariness.
What health problems are common in Welsh Springer Spaniels?
Common issues include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, glaucoma, epilepsy, and ear infections due to their floppy ears.
Do Welsh Springer Spaniels bark a lot?
They bark moderately, usually to alert their family, but they aren't nuisance barkers if given enough activity and mental stimulation.
Are Welsh Springer Spaniels easy to train?
Yes, they are very eager to learn and respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement, making them one of the more trainable spaniel breeds.
Are Welsh Springer Spaniels good family dogs?
Absolutely, they bond closely with their families and are especially gentle and patient with children when raised together.
Are Welsh Springer Spaniels good with cats?
They can get along with cats, especially if raised together, but their hunting background means they may chase small, quick-moving animals.
Are Welsh Springer Spaniels good hunting dogs?
Yes, they were bred to flush and retrieve game birds in Wales and still excel at field work, making them true dual-purpose dogs.
Can Welsh Springer Spaniels live in apartments?
They can adapt to apartment living only if they get daily vigorous exercise and mental challenges, but a home with a yard is ideal.
When do Welsh Springer Spaniels calm down?
They remain energetic through their first few years and start to settle into a steadier temperament around age 4 or 5.
Not sure which breed fits your life?
Answer five questions about your home, your schedule, and your tolerance for shedding. We’ll match you to your top three breeds from over 200.