Labrador Retriever Dogs Blog

The Cocker Spaniel is a generally even tempered, loving dog that is affectionate and loving. She is a good watch dog and when properly bred, a great child companion. She can do well in an apartment as long as she gets frequent long walks. A properly fenced in enclosure is better for exercise.

Good With Children?

Cocker Spaniels are great with children as long as they come from reasonably good bloodlines. They are so popular that puppy mills are churning them out and some poor traits have been showing up. As a reminder, never leave a young child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

Good With Other Pets?

Again, they are generally good with other pets as long as they have good bloodlines.

Temperament

This is a very friendly, loving dog and they are active.

Approximate Adult Size

The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Cocker Spaniel is 14 to 15 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 24 to 28 pounds.

Special Health Considerations

Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Cocker Spaniel is no exception. Be on the look out for eye problems, canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), epilepsy and slipping stifles, IMHA (Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia), glaucoma, and patellar luxation.

This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

Grooming

The Cocker Spaniel has a soft, silky coat that needs almost daily brushing. Her coat can pick up brambles and debris and this must be brushed out of her coat before they form mats and cause skin problems.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

Life Span

The Cocker Spaniel can live between 10 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

History

They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1878.

The English Springer Spaniel is a good choice for an apartment if you are willing to jog with her or exercise her several times a day. She will do better with access to a properly fenced in area that affords her room to run. She is very good with most other dogs and pets but possibly not so good with birds. She loves older children. As a reminder, never leave children unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

Approximate Adult Size

The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male English Springer Spaniel is 19 to 21 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 45 to 55 pounds. The female ranges from 18 to 20 inches to the withers and 40 to 50 pounds.

Special Health Considerations

Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the English Springer Spaniel is no exception. Be on the look out for canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), Progressive Retinal Atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness), hypothyroidism (sluggish thyroid gland which can result in weight gain), and Rage Syndrome (an odd situation where the dog goes crazy for a time and may even bite), thought to be associated with epilepsy. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

Grooming

The English Springer Spaniel has a moderately long coat which is composed of an inner and outer coat. The outer coat is wavy or flat while the inner coat is short and soft. She should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

Life Span

The English Springer Spaniel can live between 10 and 15 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

History

They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1910.

The English Springer Spaniel is a good choice for an apartment if you are willing to jog with her or exercise her several times a day. She will do better with access to a properly fenced in area that affords her room to run. She is very good with most other dogs and pets but possibly not so good with birds. She loves older children. As a reminder, never leave children unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male English Springer Spaniel is 19 to 21 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 45 to 55 pounds. The female ranges from 18 to 20 inches to the withers and 40 to 50 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the English Springer Spaniel is no exception. Be on the look out for canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), Progressive Retinal Atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness), hypothyroidism (sluggish thyroid gland which can result in weight gain), and Rage Syndrome (an odd situation where the dog goes crazy for a time and may even bite), thought to be associated with epilepsy. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The English Springer Spaniel has a moderately long coat which is composed of an inner and outer coat. The outer coat is wavy or flat while the inner coat is short and soft. She should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

*Life Span. The English Springer Spaniel can live between 10 and 15 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1910.

Some Registries:

*English Springer Spaniel Club of America, Inc.

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 6 to 7 English Springer Spaniel puppies

Category: Gundog, Sporting Group

Terms To Describe: Easy going, gently, affectionate, good with children, playful, intelligent, eager

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Eager to please people.

Good in obedience.

Fast learner.

Her coat is waterproof.

Her coat is pretty thorn proof.

She likes to swim.

Tolerates cold weather.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

May get muddy if given half a chance.

Can be a barker.

Needs a lot of human interaction.

Needs lots of exercise.

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.

The Cocker Spaniel is a generally even tempered, loving dog that is affectionate and loving. She is a good watch dog and when properly bred, a great child companion. She can do well in an apartment as long as she gets frequent long walks. A properly fenced in enclosure is better for exercise.

*Good With Children? Cocker Spaniels are great with children as long as they come from reasonably good bloodlines. They are so popular that puppy mills are churning them out and some poor traits have been showing up. As a reminder, never leave a young child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.
*Good With Other Pets? Again, they are generally good with other pets as long as they have good bloodlines.
*Temperament: This is a very friendly, loving dog and they are active.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Cocker Spaniel is 14 to 15 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 24 to 28 pounds.
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Cocker Spaniel is no exception. Be on the look out for eye problems, canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), epilepsy and slipping stifles, IMHA (Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia), glaucoma, and patellar luxation.
This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
*Grooming. The Cocker Spaniel has a soft, silky coat that needs almost daily brushing. Her coat can pick up brambles and debris and this must be brushed out of her coat before they form mats and cause skin problems.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

*Life Span. The Cocker Spaniel can live between 10 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1878.

Some Registries:
*American Spaniel Club
*UKC United Kennel Club
*NKC National Kennel Club
*CKC Continental Kennel Club
*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
*AKC American Kennel Club
*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 4 to 6 Cocker Spaniel puppies

Category: Sporting Group.

Terms To Describe: Sturdy, well balanced, excellent temperament, playful, trustworthy, loyal, cheerful, active, friendly,

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
She is a very gentle dog.
Good watch dog.
They are an obedient dog.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Can become fat if not exercised.
Puppy mills are turning out some poor specimens.
Does not like harsh training, she is very sensitive.Poor guard dog.
Can be a barker.
Some say that they are not highly intelligent.
Housebreaking can be problematic.

*Other Names Known By: Merry Cocker

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.

The Clumber Spaniel is an intelligent, calm dog great for apartments as they do not need a great deal of exercise as adults. They are good natured and easy going and will get along with children, other dogs and other pets if raised with them.

*Good With Children? She is patient with children, especially if she has been socialized with them early on. As a reminder, never leave a young child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.
*Trainability: May be difficult to train and she may not plenty of reinforcement.
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Clumber Spaniel is no exception. Be on the lookout for canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), Entropion, (hereditary disorder where eyelid, usually lower one, rolls inward and irritates the cornea and can cause visual problems. Surgery can correct this condition but may disqualify the dog from shows), Retinal Dysplasia, panosteitis (juvenile lameness), flea allergies and back problems. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Clumber Spaniel is 18 to 20 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 70 to 85 pounds. The female runs from 17 to 19 inches to the withers.

*Grooming. The Clumber Spaniel has a straight, dense and flat coat, soft to the touch. She is a heavy shedder and requires frequent brushing and occasional professional grooming. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats and help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

*Life Span. The Clumber Spaniel can live between 10 and 15 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. The Clumber Spaniel was first recognized in 1859 in England. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1878.

Some Registries:
*Clumber Spaniel Club of America
*UKC United Kennel Club
*NKC National Kennel Club
*CKC Continental Kennel Club
*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
*AKC American Kennel Club
*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 2 to 8 Clumber Spaniel puppies

Category: Gundog

Terms To Describe:Power, endurance, gentle, easy going

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
Does not need a lot of exercise.
They are good swimmers.
They are playful and affectionate.
They are mellow and good natured.
They will get along with other animals.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Makes a poor watch dog.
Makes a poor guard dog.
They drool, snore and wheeze.
They tend to swallow odd items.
They gain weight easily.
May overheat in hot weather.
Tend to be a one person dog.
Tends to get fat if not exercised daily.
She is a heavy shedder.

*Other Names Known By: Gentlemans Gun Dog

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.

The Irish Water Spaniel is not an apartment dog because of her size and exercise requirements. Acreage or a properly fenced in yard are best for her. If she can get access to a place to swim occasionally, she will be a happier dog. She can be aggressive with other dogs so beware. She is good with older children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Irish Water Spaniel is 22 to 24 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 55 to 65 pounds. The female ranges from 21 to 23 inches to the withers and 45 to 58 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Irish Water Spaniel is no exception. Be on the look out for hypothyroidism (sluggish thyroid gland which can result in weight gain), skin problems, and Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness). This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The Irish Water Spaniel has a double coat with the outer, weather proof coat having plenty of curl and ringlets. Professional care is generally needed to keep her coat trimmed and free of mats. She almost does not shed.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

*Life Span. The Irish Water Spaniel can live between 10 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Irish Water Spaniel comes from Ireland where they retrieved ducks for hunters. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1878.

Some Registries:

*Irish Water Spaniel

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 4 to 12 Irish Water Spaniel puppies

Category: Sporting, Gundog

Terms To Describe: Smart, upstanding, strong, smart, bold, eager, alert, inquisitive

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Good watch dog.

Shed almost no hair.

They like to swim.

Very easy to train.

Wants to please.

Not a barker.

Can be a clown

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

May need an experienced handler.

Poor guard dog.

Can be very stubborn.

Can be a one person dog.

She may slobber.

Hard to keep out of water.

*Other Names Known By: Rat-tail Spaniel, Shannon Spaniel

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.

The Tibetan Spaniel is a happy little dog that is protective with her family. They can be kept in an apartment as long as they can get frequent walks. A properly fenced in yard is best for exercise. Most individuals are very good with other dogs and pets. It is said that they are very good with children, especially older, calm children. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Tibetan Spaniel is 10 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 9 to 15 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Tibetan Spaniel is no exception. Although considered a healthy breed, be on the look out for kidney disease, progressive retinal atrophy and respiratory problems. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The Tibetan Spaniel has a double coat, of moderate length and silky in feel. Some shed heavily once a year. She should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, avoid mats, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.

*Life Span. The Tibetan Spaniel can live between 15 and 16 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Tibetan Spaniel comes from Tibet where Buddist monks called them prayer dogs. They were used as watchdogs and companions. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1983.

Some Registries:

* Tibetan Spaniel Club of America

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 2 to 4 Tibetan Spaniel puppies

Category: Non Sporting

Terms To Describe: Active, small, alert, assertive, intelligent, happy

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Makes a good watch dog.

Is very intelligent.

Affectionate with human family.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Makes a poor guard dog.

Can be stubborn.

*Other Names Known By: Prayer dogs,

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.

The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a pleasant and intelligent dog that loves humans. She is generally a watchdog. She can do well with other pets and dogs, especially if socialized when young. She also generally loves considerate children that she has been raised with. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Welsh Springer Spaniel is 17 to 19 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 40 to 45 pounds. The female ranges from 16 to 18 inches to the withers and 35 to 45 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Welsh Springer Spaniel is no exception. Be on the look out for epilepsy (common in dogs), entropian(hereditary disorder where eyelid, usually lower one, rolls inward and irritates the cornea and can cause visual problems. Surgery can correct this condition but may disqualify the dog from shows) and Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness). This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The Welsh Springer Spaniel has a soft, flat, straight and dense coat. You may want to consider periodic professional grooming. Her hair between her toes may need trimming occasionally. She should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.

*Life Span. The Welsh Springer Spaniel can live between 12 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Welsh Springer Spaniel come from Wales where they were used for hunting, retrieving and watch dogs.They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1914.

Some Registries:

*The Welsh Springer Spaniel Club of America, Inc.

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 6 to 10 Welsh Springer Spaniel puppies

Category: Gundog, Sporting

Terms To Describe: Active, loyal, affectionate, happy, willing, sensitive.

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Makes a good watch dog.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Makes a poor guard dog.

Some may wander off after a scent.

*Other Names Known By: Starter, Welsh Cocker

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.