Welsh Springer Spaniel Puppy Checklist

Before Puppy Comes Home

Welsh Springer Puppy Prep: Eye Health Documentation and Insurance

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.

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)
• Harness for walks
• 4–6 ft leash
• Slicker brush, pin brush, and wide-tooth metal comb
• Veterinary ear cleaning solution and cotton balls — begins week one
• High-value training treats
• Retrieve toys and interactive toys
• Chew toys
• Enzymatic cleaner

First Week Priorities

First Vet Visit and Eye Baseline

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.