Welsh springer spaniel, breed of medium-sized sporting dog developed several centuries ago in Wales. It stands about 17 in. (43.2 cm) high at the shoulder and weighs between 30 and 40 lb (13.6-18.1 kg). Its straight, dense, silky coat is rich dark red and white in color and forms fringes, or feathers, on the ears, chest, underside, back of legs, and stern. The tail is docked. A hardy, all-purpose gundog, the Welsh springer can be trained to retrieve waterfowl as well as upland game birds. See dog.