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Field Spaniel
The Field Spaniel is an active, medium-sized spaniel breed with a loving temperament. This native to England enjoys long walks and time with his family.
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Breed Facts
Finding a Field Spaniel
Physical Characteristics
- Moderately-sized spaniel
- Proportionately longer body than the cocker spaniel
- Coat: Silky hair is brown or black; some have tan markings
- Large nose
- Almond-shaped eyes are hazel or chestnut brown
- Pendant, fringed ears
- Height: 18 inches
- Weight: 35-50 pounds
- Average lifespan: 12-14 years
Temperament
- Docile, sweet, affectionate, independent, smart, sensitive, athletic, energetic
- Interaction with people: Excellent with children; may be wary of strangers. Tends to be devoted to one family member
- Interaction with animals: Good with other dogs and noncanine pets
- Training: Needs early socialization to avoid timidity. Quick learner; happiest with a job to do
Medical Conditions
- Hip dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Ophthalmic disorders (entropion and cataracts)
- Otitis externa (ear infections)
- Seizures
- Skin allergies
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- Not recommended for apartments
- Needs large yard with fence
- Needs a plenty of exercise, including a long daily walk
- Prefers cool climates (please note: there are field spaniels in all climates around the world- including Southern California, AZ and TX...for almost any dog, it is what they are acclimated to)
- A sports-oriented family suits it best
Grooming
- Sheds year-round
- Should be brushed and combed once or twice a week
- Straggling hair should be trimmed every few months
- Ears should be kept clean
- Dead hair can be removed by plucking
- Hair on ears, legs and neck also need to be thinned out
Other Facts
- Until 1901, size was sole distinction between the Cocker Spaniels and Field Spaniels
- All modern field spaniels can be traced to four field spaniels from the 1950s
- Talents are tracking, hunting, and retrieving
- Rare in the U.S. due to the greater popularity of Cocker Spaniels and English Springer Spaniels
Breed History
- Native to England
- Bred from the English land and Irish Water Spaniels in the 1600s
- Almost driven extinct in the late 1960s
- Breeding moderation was restored to the field spaniel in the 1920s
- Introduced in America in the late 1960s
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Field Spaniel Society of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit FSSA Rescue
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