The Russian Spaniel is a versatile gundog, watchdog, and even a loving family companion. These small dogs are strong and athletic, as well as devoted to their owners. Read on to find out more amazing Russian Spaniel facts and information!
The Russian Spaniel Is A New Breed
Many dog breeds are very ancient, with histories that can be traced back thousands of years. The Russian Spaniel, however, was standardized in 1951, making it a rather recent dog breed. This breed was developed in the Soviet Union, by crossing a variety of Spaniel breeds, namely the English Cocker Spaniel and the English Springer Spaniel.
They’re Well Adapted To The Cold
Russia is a country that is notorious for its frigid temperatures, so the early developers of the Russian Spaniel needed to make sure that the breed could withstand very cold climates. Overall, they’ve developed a reputation for being hardy and sturdy creatures with great stamina. These versatile dogs can also adapt well to virtually any kind of change, and don’t mind living in wildly different environments.
Russian Spaniels Have A Water Resistant Coat
One of the coolest fun facts about Russian Spaniels is that their fur is water-resistant! Since these gundogs were also bred as retrievers, they need to do well in all sorts of terrain in order to return game to their owners. The Russian Spaniel can even retrieve game from the water, so their water-repellent coat certainly comes in handy. Their coat is also low-shedding and easy to care for.
They Are Excellent Gundogs
The Russian Spaniel was initially bred as a gundog. These versatile dogs can hunt and retrieve game in all sorts of terrain, such as marshes, fields, forests, and many other environments. They were primarily intended to hunt birds, waterfowl, and rabbits. They have great stamina and boundless energy when it comes to hunting, and they tend to work hard with a great sense of humor.
The Russian Spaniel Comes In All Sorts Of Colors
The Russian Spaniel is known for coming in all kinds of colors and patterns. Pretty much any color and pattern combination is possible for this dog breed, but they are most commonly white with darker speckles or spots. Their faces and long, feathered ears are typically a darker color, as well.
They’re Small But Hardy
One of the most interesting facts about Russian Spaniel dogs is that, despite their small size, these dogs can do just about anything. They’re highly energetic, immensely strong, and even make great watchdogs!
The Russian Spaniel Is Also Popular As A Watchdog
While the Russian Spaniel isn’t famous for its abilities as a watchdog, they still excel in this area. Overall, breeders didn’t want to develop their watchdog abilities too much, for fear that they would lose some of their hunting skills. However, Russian Spaniel owners sleep well at night knowing their dog will alert them to any danger.
They Have A High Prey Drive
They were primarily intended to hunt birds, waterfowl, and rabbits, and as a result, they have a high prey drive. While Russian Spaniels can get along well with other dogs, they shouldn’t be kept in a home with rodents or small pets.
Their high prey drive also means that they should be kept on a leash whenever they are outside, and a fenced-in yard is a must. Otherwise, these dogs have a tendency to run after any animal that catches their eye.
They Require A Careful Diet
The small and sturdy frame of the Russian Spaniel means that they are more likely to put on weight than other dog breeds. Unfortunately, obesity is a common problem with many Russian Spaniels. Furthermore, dogs of this breed may be more likely to develop food allergies. As a result, a strict diet is important for keeping this breed healthy.
The Russian Spaniel Also Makes A Popular Companion
One of the most surprising Russian Spaniel facts is that these dogs also make popular companions. Many gundogs and other hunting companions are known for being very independent, and they aren’t usually the most affectionate of dogs. The Russian Spaniel, however, is a highly affectionate breed with a lot of love for its owners!
Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!
Hairless Dog Breeds
Usually, when we think of dogs, we think of furry creatures on four legs. But did you know that there are hairless canines as well? These unique dogs are a favorite among owners who need a hypoallergenic pet, or those who don’t want to deal with fleas or shedding....
Dogs With Short Legs
Dogs with short legs are often robust and adorable at the same time. While these canines were usually bred for hunting or working, they often make charming family pets, as well. With that being said, let's take a look at some of the most popular short-legged dog...
Retriever Breeds
Retrievers were specially created to retrieve game such as fowl and other animals while hunting, and they are revered for their obedience and trainability. So how many retriever breeds are there? Altogether, there are six official retriever breeds, and in this...
Giant Dog Breeds
Dogs can come in a bunch of different sizes, and a few breeds can be as big as humans, or even bigger! Giant dogs require an experienced and responsible owner, and they can be costly to care for, however they are extremely rewarding to keep as pets. That being said,...
Dog Breeds With Beards
One surprising yet adorable feature in some dog breeds is an adorable fluffy beard. This is a popular breed trait that adds a whole lot of personality to a dog. So here are the top dog breeds with beards, and what you'll want to know about each of them! Brussels...
Dogs With Dreadlocks
Dogs can come with all sorts of different hairstyles, but did you know that they can come with dreadlocks, too? If you want a dog that looks totally unique from all the other canines out there, then a dog with dreadlocks just might be the pooch for you. With that...
Dogs With Different Colored Eyes
While it may sound rare, there are actually a lot of dogs with different colored eyes. This is an odd but gorgeous condition that can occur in a variety of different breeds. So here are some of the top dog breeds with different colored eyes! Heterochromia in Dogs...
Slovakian Dog Breeds
Slovakia is a small country in central Europe. It is landlocked and bordered by Austria, Poland, Ukraine, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. And from hounds to wolfdogs Slovakia has created some of the most unique canines on the planet. So here are the Slovakian dog...
Danish Dog Breeds
The Kingdom of Denmark is a Northern European country. It is made up of the peninsula of Jutland along with more than 400 islands. This Scandinavian nation is also home to a handful of its very own dog breeds, which to most people’s surprise doesn’t include the Great...
Czech Dog Breeds
The Czech Republic is a country in Central Europe. It has an interesting history and has been an independent state since Czechoslovakia dissolved in 1993 and split into two separate countries: the Czech Republic and Slovakia. And it has created some amazing canines....
Polish Dog Breeds
Located in Central Europe, the Republic of Poland is a country of stunning beauty with a range of natural habitats. And it’s also home to several remarkable breeds of dogs that were developed for specific jobs. So here are the Polish dog breeds and what you’ll want to...
Dogs That Look Like Cows
Real cows belong on the farm and don’t make great pets, however dogs that look like cows do! Luckily for cow fans there are quite a few breeds ranging in size from tiny to extra-large, that have a cow-like appearance. So here are the top cow-looking dogs and what...
Dogs That Look Like Horses
Horses are gallant creatures with long flowing tails and manes. And while these aren’t traits most people think of when it comes to canines, amazingly there are a handful of dogs that look like horses. So here are the top horse-looking dogs and what you’ll want to...
Romanian Dog Breeds
Nestled in Southeastern Europe, Romania is a country with a diverse range of wildlife, and that includes predators. To safeguard livestock in this rugged terrain, four distinct Romanian dog breeds were developed. Dive into the unique characteristics and histories of...
Dogs That Look Like Deer
Deer are beautiful and graceful creatures that use their speed to evade predators. And it’s no coincidence that most of the dogs that look like deer are fast on their feet as well. Their similar looks are the result of function, and that function is speed. Here are...
Thai Dog Breeds
Like many other countries around the world, the Southeast Asian country of Thailand can be credited with developing its own very own dog breeds. And while there are only two, both are incredibly unique with a look and temperament all their own. So here are both of the...
Maltese Dog Breeds
Even some of the smallest countries in the world have created their very own dog breeds. And the Republic of Malta is no exception. This Southern European island nation located in the center of the Mediterranean Sea has developed two unique breeds to call its very...
Dogs That Look Like A Rug
Different dog breeds can have wildly different coat types. And with so many breeds out there, a few even have coats that make them look quite rug-like in appearance. Here are nine dogs that look like a rug including what you’ll want to know about each of these...
Dogs That Look Like A Lamb
Dogs are unique to other animals because they come in an endless combination of shapes, sizes, and colors. It's no wonder these beloved pets have made their way into our hearts! No matter what kind of dog you prefer, you're sure to find at least one breed that fits...
Dogs That Look Like Sheep
Through artificial selection, dog breeders have created hundreds of unique breeds with a range of different physical characteristics. Some even look similar to other animals including sheep. So here are seven dogs that look like sheep, and what you’ll want to know...