Russian Spaniel

Get to Know Russian Spaniels

• First Spaniel Developed in Russia: The Russian Spaniel is the only spaniel breed that originated in Russia, created post-World War II to meet the country’s specific hunting and environmental needs.
• Designed for Versatility: Bred to work in Russia’s diverse terrain, from forests to wetlands, Russian Spaniels are skilled at flushing, retrieving, and tracking small game, making them incredibly adaptable hunters.
• Compact but Sturdy: Though similar in size to the English Cocker Spaniel, the Russian Spaniel tends to have a slightly longer body and strong, athletic build — built for endurance rather than just appearance.
• Extremely Rare Outside of Russia: Despite their working abilities and friendly nature, Russian Spaniels remain very rare internationally, with most dogs still found in Russia or Eastern Europe.
• Friendly but Focused: Unlike some spaniel breeds that can be excitable or overly energetic, Russian Spaniels are known for their calm, steady temperament. They are affectionate with families yet focused and serious when working.

Breed History

The Russian Spaniel was developed in the Soviet Union in the mid-20th century as an all-purpose hunting dog, combining traits from English Cocker Spaniels, English Springer Spaniels, and other European spaniels. Russian hunters wanted a compact, agile, and hardy breed suited to the country’s diverse terrain and game, from birds to small mammals. Officially recognized in Russia in 1951, the breed was selectively bred for endurance, scenting ability, and a friendly, cooperative temperament. Though still relatively rare outside of its home country, the Russian Spaniel is gaining international interest as a versatile, affectionate companion with strong field instincts.

Personality and Behaviour

• Loyal & Affectionate: As companions, they are known for forming close bonds with their families. They enjoy being part of household activities and are typically friendly with both adults and children. While they love attention, they are not overly demanding, often content to be near their people and included in daily life.
• Highly focused & Intelligent: These are traits inherited from their working dog background. Russian Spaniels are quick learners who thrive on structured activities, whether it’s obedience training, scent work, or field tasks. However, be careful of strenuous activities like fetch, as this kind of play will turn this dog into a strong athlete constantly needing more play time. To combat this, should sit and wait until given permission to run, then retrieve the ball, bring it back, place it down, and wait again. It’s the switch from physical activity to mental control that really tires the dog out and not just the running. Their steady concentration makes them both responsive and cooperative, especially when training is consistent and positive.
• Even-tempered & Gentle: They are typically good with other pets when properly socialized and less prone to high-strung or overly excitable behaviour compared to some other spaniel breeds. Calm indoors and enthusiastic outdoors, they strike a great balance for families seeking a versatile, good-natured companion.

Care

• Grooming: Russian Spaniels have a medium-length, water-resistant coat that is relatively low-maintenance compared to other spaniel breeds. Weekly brushing is usually enough to keep their coat clean and free of mats, especially around the ears and feathered areas. Occasional baths and routine care like nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental hygiene help keep them in good overall condition.
• Exercise: Bred for endurance and field work, Russian Spaniels are active dogs that require regular daily exercise. Long walks, active play sessions, or opportunities to run in a secure area help meet their physical and mental needs. Without enough activity, they may become restless or bored, so engaging them with varied activities like scent games or fetch is ideal.
• Training: Russian Spaniels are intelligent, eager to please, and quick to learn, making them highly trainable. They respond best to positive reinforcement and enjoy tasks that engage their minds. Early socialization and consistent training help shape their natural focus and good manners, making them well-behaved both at home and in the field.