Welsh Springer Spaniel
The Welsh Springer Spaniel is described by the AKC as reserved, happy, upbeat, a member of the Sporting Group, originally from Wales.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 18-19 inches (male), 17-18 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 40-55 pounds (male), 35-50 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–15+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Reserved / Happy / Upbeat [1] |
| AKC group | Sporting Group [1] |
| Origin | Wales [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 141 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Welsh Springer Spaniels are active, energetic dogs who are happiest when they have plenty of exercise as well as lots of time with their people. Play sessions with their family in a securely fenced yard or long daily walks with their owner work well. Interaction with their humans is the key to a happy Welshie. [1]
Grooming
To keep his attractive red-and-white coat looking its best, the Welsh Springer Spaniel needs at least weekly grooming. A good once-over with a soft brush should work well for this, along with a slicker brush or metal dog comb to work apart any mats or tangles that are starting to form. The nails should be trimmed every three to four weeks, and a bath every month or so with a gentle shampoo meant for dogs will help to keep the coat and skin clean and healthy. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Welsh Springer Spaniels are generally healthy dogs, and responsible breeders test their stock for health conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, autoimmune thyroiditis, and eye disease. A Welshie's ears should be checked regularly for signs of infection, and the teeth should be brushed often, using a toothpaste formulated for dogs. Regular visits to the vet for checkups and parasite control help to ensure the dog a long, healthy life. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation, Thyroid Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Welsh Springer Spaniel in 1914. [1]
- It ranked No. 141 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 128 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Welshie, Welshman.” [1]
- The AKC lists Wales as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 4 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 5/5)
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 4/5)
Common questions
How long do Welsh Springer Spaniels live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
How big does a Welsh Springer Spaniel get?
AKC breed information lists height 18-19 inches (male), 17-18 inches (female) and weight 40-55 pounds (male), 35-50 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Welsh Springer Spaniel?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Welsh Springer Spaniel, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.