InPreservatIonWetrust• DanSayers continued
orous or exaggerated, most modern-day Welsh have a slightly polished appearance when compared with their forebears. Breeders of this dog understand that the market for puppies is somewhat limited. In order to ensure the Welsh Springer’s
standards for rehabilitation Another Welshman could represent the second approach defined by the NPS. The Welsh Springer Spaniel is a good example of a breed that retains both its original instincts as
well as its appearance, but has been enhanced in some way to meet the chang- ing needs of the fancy. Subtle enhance- ments of coat and color indicate a desire by breeders to ensure its continuation through a “rehabilitation” of sorts. Rehabilitation, as defined by the NPS, acknowledges the need to make alterations owing to a modified function or purpose. However, modifications to distinctive fea- tures and materials — as well as to the rela-
survival, fanciers must compete with sev- eral better-known — and more readily available — Spaniel breeds. This would be no easy task, except for the fact that this breed happens to possess all the qualities that define a classic. There’s no need for extremes with this Welsh since the basic parts and pieces haven’t been altered for nearly 500 years. However, with its ancient characteristics firmly preserved, the breed today can afford the luxury of a
Welsh Springer Spaniels sport a more polished appearance today than did their forebears in Wales.
tionship of individual parts — must be kept to a minimum. The Welsh Springer is a living legacy of the red and white Spaniel described by Dr. Johannes Caius in his momentous work, Of Englishe Dogges: The Diversities, the Names, the Natures, and the Properties, published in 1576. The breed remains a protypical land Spaniel today, compactly made and built for work. Its moderately-feathered and weatherproof coat, unique head, and loyal and affectionate nature are its signature features. These essential Spaniel characteristics have remained virtually unchanged since the breed was known as the “Starter” in its native land. Unlike many of the Spaniel breeds that came along later, the Welsh Springer retains both its original character as well as its original appearance. Though the breed was never intended to be glam-
longer coat with its distinctive contrast of red and white. These enhancements, it should be noted, are mere window dressing on an otherwise historic structure. Should the polish ever wear off, the Welsh Springer’s good bones and charm will endure. standards for reconstruction In order to ensure the continuation of any dog breed, drastic measures may become necessary. When two World Wars dec- imated the numbers in many European and British breeds, it became necessary to make judicious outcrosses to dogs of questionable parentage in order to make certain a breed did not die out. Similarly, when disease threatens a breed’s future and the health and welfare of individual animals is at stake, it may become imperative to consider doing the unthinkable. In
94 • S how S ight M agazine , J uly 2017
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