Welsh Springer Spaniel Club (WSSC)

The Welsh Springer Spaniel Club (WSSC) is a dedicated association of owners and enthusiasts committed to the welfare, promotion, and development of the Welsh Springer Spaniel. Established in 1923, the club has spent over a century fostering a community centered around this distinct, merry, and active breed. As the largest breed club for Welsh Springer Spaniels in the UK, it serves as a central hub for information, education, and advocacy.

Core Mission and Rules

The primary mission of the WSSC is to promote the best breeding practices for both exhibition and working purposes. The club operates under a set of formal rules that mandate adherence to the official Breed Standard, which is defined, published, and endorsed by the club and approved by the Kennel Club. To ensure the highest standards of welfare and integrity, the club has also developed a comprehensive Breeders’ Code of Practice, providing essential guidance to its members regarding the ethical breeding and care of the dogs.

Activities and Engagement

The WSSC offers a wide array of activities designed to keep members engaged and to showcase the versatility of the Welsh Springer Spaniel. These include:

• Showing: The club hosts two Open shows and one Championship Show annually, providing platforms for owners to exhibit their dogs according to breed standards.
• Working: Recognizing the breed's natural abilities, the club organizes training events, assessments, and working tests to encourage the development of the dogs' working instincts.
• Social Events: The club schedules regular walks across different regions of the country, offering members valuable opportunities to meet and share their passion for the breed.
• Education and Support: The club provides resources on puppy information, health and welfare, and rescue and re-homing services.

Breed Focus

The club is exclusively dedicated to the Welsh Springer Spaniel, a breed characterized by its rich red and white coat, comparatively small ears, and active temperament. While often compared to the English Springer Spaniel, the Welsh Springer is a distinct, smaller breed that the club works tirelessly to promote and protect. Through its various initiatives, including the publication of yearbooks and the hosting of specialized awards like the 'Worldwide Wonderful Welshie Award,' the WSSC continues to celebrate the unique qualities of this breed while supporting its community of owners.