Do Welsh Springers shed a lot and what sort of coat care is required?
Welsh Springers are a breed that sheds so be prepared to use your vacuum. Because they have less undercoat they do not shed as much as some of the breeds bred for duck hunting.
WSS’s do require some grooming which consists of brushing weekly to keep mats from forming and baths monthly or more often if they are outdoors a lot. The WSS has somewhat of a self-cleaning coat and if they get muddy, dirt is easily brushed from their feathers once dried. Trimming the hair from the top of the ears, the front of the neck & neatening the feet is what we consider the minimal grooming requirements for a WSS. When used for hunting some owners remove all feathering. Do not shave the hair from the back and body of a WSS as it will never grow back the same.
How much exercise does a WSS need?
As a hunting dog WSS’s need to have the energy to hunt all day in the field. That aspect makes them a dog that requires exercise on a daily basis. This means a walk or hike daily interspersed with some individual attention such as obedience training or retrieving a ball. Because they are attracted to wild birds and animals obedience training is essential, especially the “Come” command. Puppies will have more energy for the first year but tend to settle down a bit once past that milestone. Due to the energy level and playfulness of a WSS puppy they may not be a great fit for families with children under the age of 5 or 6 years, especially if both parents work outside the home or are first time dog owners.
Are WSS’s good in the house with kids and other pets?
WSS’s make great house dogs and if raised with children and pets do quite well! WSS’s love to be with their people and will tend to follow you throughout the house. The WSS like all dogs need intense socializing with people, noises, and unfamiliar situations especially from the age of 3 weeks to 4 months of age. After the age of 4 months socializing should continue but at a less intense pace. We provide the first 9 weeks of socialization for your puppy but you will be the one that must continue with socializing after you get your puppy.