Svenska Spaniel och Retrieverklubben (SSRK)

Svenska Spaniel och Retrieverklubben (SSRK) is Sweden's largest specialty club dedicated to hunting dog breeds, operating under the umbrella of the Swedish Kennel Club (SKK). With a rich history spanning 75 years, the organization serves as a central hub for enthusiasts of spaniels and retrievers, fostering a community that values the unique working traits of these breeds while promoting their roles as ideal family companions.

Core Mission and Activities

The club's primary mission is to preserve and promote the inherent characteristics of spaniels and retrievers. SSRK offers a wide range of activities designed to engage both hunting enthusiasts and general dog owners. Key areas of focus include:

• Hunting and Field Trials: Specialized training and competitions for retriever hunting, tolling, and spaniel hunting.
• Tracking and Performance: Activities such as game tracking (viltspår) and functional descriptions to assess a dog's natural abilities.
• Education and Breeding: Providing resources for responsible breeding, foundational training for hunting, and educational articles through their publication, Apportören.
• Youth Engagement: The club actively supports the next generation through initiatives like the Youth Championship and youth scholarships.
• Exhibitions: Organizing dog shows to evaluate breed standards and conformation.

Breeds Covered

SSRK represents a diverse group of breeds, ensuring specialized support for each. The breeds covered include:

• Retrievers: Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Curly Coated Retriever, Flatcoated Retriever, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, and Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.
• Spaniels: American Cocker Spaniel, Clumber Spaniel, Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, Field Spaniel, Irish Water Spaniel, Sussex Spaniel, and Welsh Springer Spaniel.

Organization and Membership

SSRK operates through a network of local departments and specific breed clubs, ensuring that members have access to local support and community events. The club maintains strong partnerships with organizations such as the Swedish Association for Hunting and Wildlife Management (Svenska Jägareförbundet) and Studiefrämjandet. Membership is open to anyone with an interest in these breeds, offering benefits that include access to training resources, competitive events, and a supportive network of fellow dog owners. By focusing on the balance between working ability and companionship, SSRK continues to play a vital role in the Swedish canine community.