Russian Spaniel Facts And Information

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!

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