The Russian hunting spaniel is a breed of hunting dogs of Russia, which for the first time were brought to its territory in the 19th century. However, hunting with the Russian hunting spaniel of those times did not bring the expected results, because the species was more intended for decorative purposes and could not tolerate the harsh natural conditions of the country. It was then that the breeders came up with the idea of breeding a breed that possessed all the qualities for effective Russian hunting. For this, the best representatives of imported dogs were selected and crossed with springer. However, the process of elimination was interrupted by the Great Patriotic War and was resumed only after its termination. The existing standards of the Russian hunting cocker spaniel were adopted in 1966 and still exist.
Description of Russian hunting spaniel
Common signs that distinguish this dog among its relatives are as follows:
- the growth of the Russian hunting spaniel at the withers is no more than 44 cm;
- The lean head is of moderate length, with a slightly convex frontal part and developed arches of eyebrows;
- The broad muzzle, which narrows slightly to the nose;
- strong and powerful jaw with healthy teeth;
- oval eyes of medium size, have a dark or light brown color;
- The mobile ears are characterized by a long length and hang down along the cheekbones;
- low-set neck;
- powerful and developed system of muscles of the whole body, the skin and abdomen are elastic and taut;
- the scalp is long, straight or slightly wavy, soft and shiny;
- Color can be either monophonic or mixed of two or three colors.
The weight of the Russian hunting spaniel is not dictated by standards, but the weight category in the range of 12-16 kg is considered optimal.
Care of Russian hunting spaniel
It is not difficult to maintain such a pet, which makes it a good option for people living in an apartment. Especially owners like the absence of an unpleasant canine smell, which is exuded by almost all members of the wolf family. The food should be two or three times, depending on the age and mobility of the dog. Recommended long walks with active games, which you need to spend every day.
A bit of attention is required by the wool of the Russian hunting cocker spaniel, which must be combed once a week and cut a couple of times a year. Bathing with special means should not be carried away, it is enough to wipe the paws or wash the dog in clean water. Be sure to conduct periodic examinations with a veterinarian.
Character of the Russian hunting spaniel
Representatives of this breed by nature are very friendly and get along with all the other inhabitants of the house. Spaniel simply adores communication, which can make interesting and unobtrusive. Extreme cheerfulness and activity make him an excellent companion of young people and children, and an innate tact and ability to know his place will be useful to the elderly owner. High compliance training, learning and curiosity allow you to conduct education of Russian hunting
Nataska of the Russian hunting spaniel
Training the dog for methods of detecting game in a short time and with the least expenditure of energy occurs in swamps, meadows, forests or water bodies. For different types of baiting you have to use various techniques and methods of training, with which you will be introduced by a cynologist and a huntsman. It is necessary to switch the attention of the spaniel from the rest of the marsh and forest inhabitants to the desired object. Be sure to give the pet a rest and support the forces of caloric and easily digestible food. When training in the field, the commands that the dog needed to train at home will be useful.