The United Spaniel Association was formed in 1971 as the result of moves throughout the continent to produce a United Council in Europe. In 1968 in Vollendam, Holland, spaniel enthusiasts from all over met and the Spaniel Council of Europe was born. This Council was anxious to have a representative from Britain as six of the eight sporting spaniel breeds originate here.
The inaugural meeting of the United Spaniel Association was held on the 21st May 1971 with Warner Hill as President, Leslie Page as Chairman, George Lancaster as Vice Chairman, Roger Hall Jones as Treasurer and Dr Esther Rickards as Secretary. There were representatives from Breed Clubs for all eight spaniel breeds and this has been the case since that date although not every breed club is a member of the Association.

Great Britain hosted the Congress in 1983 despite financial difficulties, so in 1984 the constitution was changed to allow the Association to hold shows and events to raise revenue. Since that date an Open Show has been held every year for the eight sporting spaniel breeds. The Association views its' Show as an important event in the canine calendar and an opportunity for breed clubs to propose up and coming judges to gain experience with more classes and higher entries than a usual open show.

To promote the improved breeding of all sporting spaniels. To hold shows, working tests and any other event at which judges shall be experienced within the gundog group and to adopt other means as may be deemed advisable for the encouragement of all sporting spaniel breeds.
To coordinate opinion on the maintenance of true spaniel type, characteristics and development and to act as a link between the various spaniel clubs, associations and societies in the United Kingdom and the European Spaniel Congress.

The Association exists for the benefit of its associated member clubs, associations and societies and will not operate as a trading business. All profits arising from any source function or activity of the association shall be utilised for further education of the member clubs in the various aspects of management, breeding, training and showing of the various spaniel breeds

The Association is always happy to hear from spaniel owners with comments or suggestions. Officers contact details may be found on the Officers and Committee Section of this site.
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