What were Welsh Springers historically referred to simply as?
Answer
Welsh Spaniel
Before the breed standards became strictly delineated, separating it clearly from the English variety, the dogs thriving in the rugged Welsh landscape were known generically by a simpler name. Historically, these dedicated working dogs were frequently referred to simply as the Welsh Spaniel. The later differentiation was solidified not just by subtle structural differences, but primarily through their consistent coloring, which eventually helped establish the modern Welsh Springer Spaniel identity.

Related Questions
What historical event might predate the lineage of the Welsh Springer Spaniel?What is the exclusive color pattern defining the Welsh Springer Spaniel?Where does the 'Springer' part of the Welsh Springer Spaniel name originate?Which historical period caused the greatest existential threat to the breed?In what year did The Kennel Club in the UK first register the breed as distinct?In which year did the AKC officially grant recognition to the breed into the Sporting Group?What was the primary functional utility for which Welsh Springers were developed?What were Welsh Springers historically referred to simply as?Which colors can English Springer Spaniels present besides the Welsh standard?What ancestral trait causes an under-exercised Welsh Springer to become frustrated?