Welsh Springer Spaniel Puppy Checklist

Before Puppy Comes Home

What do you need before bringing home a Welsh Springer Spaniel puppy?

Last updated October 8, 2026

Before your Welsh Springer Spaniel arrives, confirm PRA DNA test and CAER ophthalmology documentation from both parents, and enroll in pet insurance before the first vet visit. Eye health — specifically glaucoma and PRA — is the primary breed-specific concern. Insurance active before any eye condition is documented preserves full coverage for treatment costs that can be significant.

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Health Documentation to Confirm Before Purchase

• PRA DNA test — both parents clear; eliminates progressive retinal atrophy risk from DNA-testable form
• CAER ophthalmology exam (annual) for both parents — screens for structural eye conditions including glaucoma predisposition
• OFA hip certification for both parents

Essential Gear Checklist

• Medium crate (30–36 inch with divider for growth)
• Dog bed
• Stainless steel bowls
• Flat collar + ID tag (engrave immediately on arrival)
  One option: GoTags Personalized Stainless Steel ID Tag on Amazon. An engraved stainless steel ID tag; you pick the shape and the lines of text at checkout. Put a phone number that's actually answered on it, and update the engraving if you move.
• Harness for walks
• 4–6 ft leash
  One option: Joytale Double-Handle Leash (6 ft) on Amazon. A 6-foot nylon leash with a padded second handle near the clip for close control, plus reflective stitching for dark walks. The 1-inch webbing suits medium and large dogs; it can feel heavy on a young puppy.
• Slicker brush, pin brush, and wide-tooth metal comb
  One option: Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush on Amazon. The Big G has long, angled pins set in a flexible cushioned pad, built for working through double, long and curly coats. Use light strokes; slicker pins can scratch skin if pressed hard.
• Veterinary ear cleaning solution and cotton balls — begins week one
  One option: Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser on Amazon. A gentle, low-pH, alcohol-free ear cleanser made for routine cleaning and drying of the ear canal. Routine cleaning only; if the ear is red, smelly or painful, see your vet before putting anything in it.
• High-value training treats
  One option: Blue Buffalo Bits Soft Training Treats, Beef (19 oz) on Amazon. Soft, bite-size training treats with real beef as the first ingredient, small enough for rapid repetitions. Keep treats to about 10% of daily calories.
• Retrieve toys and interactive toys
• Chew toys
• Enzymatic cleaner
  One option: Nature's Miracle Dog Stain & Odor Remover (32 oz) on Amazon. An enzymatic stain and odor cleaner that keeps breaking down urine and other organic messes after you apply it. Spot-test on carpet or upholstery first.

First Week Priorities

What should the first week with a Welsh Springer Spaniel puppy look like?

Insurance Before the First Vet Visit

Enroll in pet insurance on arrival day. For the Welsh Springer, look for a policy with ophthalmologic coverage without breed-specific eye condition exclusions. Glaucoma treatment and management can be expensive — ensure the policy covers this before enrolling. Read the coverage terms carefully.

First Vet Visit (Within 48–72 Hours)

• Full physical exam including eye examination
• Ask the vet to establish an eye health baseline — intraocular pressure measurement in addition to standard eye exam is reasonable for this breed
• Vaccine schedule verification and continuation
• Parasite prevention discussion
• Ear exam — establish a clean baseline
• Microchip if not done by breeder
• Discuss glaucoma monitoring frequency as the dog ages

Starting the Ear Cleaning Routine

Begin weekly ear cleaning from the first week. Use veterinary ear cleaning solution — apply, massage the ear base, allow the puppy to shake, then wipe with cotton balls. At this age the primary goal is building handling tolerance, not treating any problem. A Welsh Springer that accepts weekly ear handling as normal routine is far easier to care for as an adult.

Socialization and Training

Socialization Priorities and Training for Welsh Springers

Socialization Window: 8–16 Weeks

Welsh Springer Spaniels are typically friendly dogs with a strong attachment to their family. Active socialization during the critical window builds a confident, adaptable adult. Some lines trend toward wariness without adequate early exposure. Prioritize:

• Varied people — different ages, appearances, children, visitors
• Novel environments — different settings, surfaces, urban and rural sounds
• Controlled dog interactions through puppy classes
• Handling: ears, eyes, paws — especially important for this breed's health monitoring needs

Carry the puppy in high disease-risk areas before vaccinations are complete. Don't sacrifice the socialization window.

Glaucoma Awareness — Learn the Signs Now

Acute glaucoma is a medical emergency. Learn the signs before you need to recognize them: sudden eye redness, cloudiness, squinting, or the dog pawing at one eye. These require immediate veterinary attention — not a wait-and-see approach. Knowing the signs means acting quickly enough to potentially preserve the dog's vision.

Training

Welsh Springers are intelligent, willing dogs that respond well to positive training methods. They are less independently-minded than some sporting breeds — they want to work with their owners. Start basic obedience from the first week. A puppy class by 10–12 weeks provides structure and socialization. For owners interested in field work, the Welsh Springer has genuine field ability and responds well to hunting and hunt test training.