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Russian Spaniel |
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He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
Russia | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen |
A brief presentation of the Russian Spaniel |
| The Russian Spaniel is a new breed of hunting dog, developed in Russia shortly after the end of the Second World War. They are generally cheerful pets that spend time with their families, always ready for a game of fetch but also able to enjoy a good relaxing time. However, these dogs were bred to be hunting dogs, and in the field they are known for their stamina as well as their ability to shoot game and retrieve birds. They are still an extremely rare breed, even if they are gaining in popularity in their homeland. |
History of the Russian Spaniel |
| The Russian Spaniel is a relatively new breed of dog that developed after the end of the Second World War in Russia. Before the war, the breed's beginnings consisted of trying to lengthen the legs of Spaniels such as Cocker Spaniels by introducing dogs like Springer Spaniel into the mix. This led to a variety of Spaniels called Russian Spaniels, particularly in cities like Moscow, Leningrad and Sverdlovsk, but with no real standards as to what a Russian Spaniel should be. World War II devastated the Russian Spaniel populations, as well as most other types and breeds of dog native to the Soviet Union. It was after the war, in 1951, that deliberate breeding efforts led to the establishment of the first breed standards. The Russian Spaniel was designed to be a hunting dog capable of handling both skidding and retrieving responsibilities, with priority given to a strong, athletic build and greater stamina, while reducing the emphasis on decoration and the breed still appearing to be developing. From this point onwards, the Russian Spaniel was recognized by some of the lesser-known breed organizations, such as the Continental Kennel Club, the North American Kennel Club and the Federation of International Canines. The standard has been modified twice, once in 1966 and again in 2000. The breed has grown in popularity, particularly since the 1990s, and there are breed clubs in both Russia and the USA. |
Appearance of the Russian Spaniel |
| The Russian Spaniel is a fairly small breed of Spaniel, usually 30.5 centimeters at the withers, with a straight but slightly elongated back and a strong build. They have round, arched legs with abundant fur between the toes and a thick, straight tail with a fringe that is frequently docked at half their original length. The head is distinctly oval in shape, with a long, broad muzzle, oval eyes in various shades of brown and long, floppy ears that rest close to the eye line and hang close to the cheek; when extended, the ears should only touch the tip of the Russian Spaniel's black or brown nose. This breed's soft coat is moderately long, lies flat against the body and tends to be somewhat reflective in nature. Although they are most often white with darker patches of black, brown and tan, many of these dogs come in black, brown or tan. |
Temperament of the Russian Spaniel |
| While hunting and scavenging in the field, Russian Spaniels are also devoted and charming animals, with an empathetic and fun-loving attitude when at home. Small children should always be supervised when interacting with a dog, however, this breed tends to be gentle with the youngest group and often makes a jovial playmate. The Russian Spaniel also has a nose for trouble, and although they are generally friendly with everyone, even newcomers, they are known to make very alert and capable watchdogs. They also tend to be open and friendly with most other dogs and cats, although their instinct can lead them to chase birds and rodents, indoors and out. They are highly intelligent and eager to please. Training the Russian Spaniel is generally child's play, but like most Spaniels, they respond best to firm but gentle training methods. |
Needs and activities of the Russian Spaniel |
| This is a fairly energetic dog, but they are generally satisfied with moderate walking time followed by a vigorous game of fetch. This breed would certainly be happiest with its own garden in which to play, but they are often able to get some exercise playing indoors and are able to adapt easily to an apartment lifestyle. These dogs are highly intelligent and can take part in other activities such as tracking trials, swimming and sports training. Their small size, combined with an outgoing but gentle nature, can make these dogs good candidates for therapy dogs. |
Maintenance of the Russian Spaniel |
| The medium-length coat naturally repels dirt and water, making it fairly easy to care for. This breed generally has a low dog odor and requires only a few baths a year. Although they do it well, brushing their coat just two or three times a week is enough to prevent tangles, keep the coat from getting out of hand and keep it shiny and healthy. It's also important to ensure that this breed's long ears are kept clean and dry, and are checked frequently to ensure that no water, debris or infection remains in the ear. It's also important to keep an eye on your dog's skin, especially when it's a puppy under five months old, as food allergies in dogs usually result in rashes and skin irritation. Nail and teeth care is a simple task, brushing teeth several times a week and trimming nails as required, usually once a month. |
English (United Kingdom) 
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