Field Spaniel: temperament, size, care and health

About the Field Spaniel

The Field Spaniel is a well-balanced, moderately sized spaniel with a long, low body, strong legs and a noble head. Its coat is flat or slightly wavy, silky and dense, and comes in solid black, liver or roan, with or without tan points. It is a little longer than tall, and it has a distinctive profile, with long ears and a calm, dignified expression.

The breed was developed to flush and retrieve game in dense cover, and it can work in brush that would exhaust a larger dog. It is one of the rarer spaniels. The people who keep it tend to be hunters and enthusiasts who prefer a steady, quiet dog to a boisterous one.

Temperament and family life

The Field Spaniel is typically gentle, even-tempered and affectionate. It is more independent than many spaniels, and may be reserved with strangers until it gets to know them. It generally gets along with children who are considerate, and with other dogs and animals when raised with them.

It likes to be near its family, but it does not usually demand constant attention. A Field Spaniel left alone for too long may still become bored or anxious, and can bark or chew. It is sensitive to a harsh tone and holds a grudge for a time. Early socialization yields a more confident adult.

Exercise and training

A Field Spaniel requires a daily walk of reasonable length and some off-leash exercise or play. It enjoys scent games, fetch and swimming. It is less frantic than a springer, but it still has the stamina of a working dog and will not thrive on minimal activity.

The breed is intelligent and willing to learn, although it can have a stubborn streak and a mind of its own. Reward-based training with short sessions and variety works best. Field Spaniels can be slow to mature, and the dog may need patience during adolescence. They take part in hunt tests, tracking, obedience and agility. As with other spaniels, the nose is a strong influence on behavior outdoors.

Grooming and shedding

The Field Spaniel's coat needs regular grooming. Brush two or three times a week with a pin brush and comb, and take care with the feathering on the ears, chest, belly, legs and tail, which can mat. Most owners trim the feet and the hair on the back of the legs to keep the dog tidy. Shedding is moderate and heavier in changing seasons.

Long ears hang close to the head and hold moisture, so clean and dry them weekly. After time in the field check for burrs, grass seeds and ticks. Bathe as needed. Keep nails trimmed and teeth brushed. A pet clip is less common than in cockers, but a neat trim can make household life easier.

Health

The Field Spaniel is a small breed population with some inherited problems. Hip dysplasia occurs, along with hypothyroidism, ear infections and certain eye conditions such as cataracts. Autoimmune diseases and skin problems have also been reported. Breeders should screen hips, eyes and thyroid, and a buyer can ask about genetic diversity and family health history. For anything about a specific dog, a veterinarian is the one to ask; this section is only a general guide.

History

The Field Spaniel was developed in Britain in the 1800s. It was first bred for the show ring as a distinct black, liver or roan dog. In the early twentieth century breeders exaggerated its length and low build for the show ring, which damaged its soundness, and the breed nearly vanished. Careful breeders restored a more athletic type with outcrosses to English Springer Spaniels. The American Kennel Club recognized the Field Spaniel in 1894.

Is the Field Spaniel right for you?

A Field Spaniel suits a calm, active household that wants a medium-sized, steady spaniel and has the time for brushing and walks. It can adapt to a home with a small yard as long as it gets exercise.

It is a poor match for those who want a boisterous playmate or a dog that thrives in kennel conditions. Rarity can mean a long wait for a puppy. The Sussex Spaniel is slower and heavier, and the English Cocker Spaniel is more outgoing. The Welsh Springer Spaniel has a similar size and a lighter build.