Field Spaniel
The Field Spaniel is a medium-sized dog with a kind and gentle nature, used as a breeder and game dog. The Field Spaniel is a very handsome animal with a long, glossy coat that requires daily grooming. He’s not as energetic as other Spaniel breeds, but still needs a moderate amount of exercise and is better suited to country living. That being said, he can adapt to live in a mid-to-large size house providing he gets enough exercise and attention.
Key facts about the Field Spaniel
Access the rest of the content after the ad
Loading advertisement ...
Origins and history
The Field Spaniel was originally bred as a working dog. However, they soon became unpopular with hunters and farmers. The Field Spaniel's dark coat meant they were difficult to track during hunts. As a result, breeders began selecting these Spaniels for their long, glossy coats and they soon became a common sight at dog shows throughout the early 20th century. In 2009, they were only 51 Field Spaniels registered in the UK.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 8 - Retrievers - Flushing Dogs - Water Dogs
Section
Section 2 : Flushing Dogs
Physical characteristics of the Field Spaniel
Adult size
Female : Between 17 and 19 in
Male : Between 17 and 19 in
Weight
Female : Between 40 and 55 lb
Male : Between 40 and 55 lb
Coat colour
Black, liver, tan, roan, and mixes of these colours.
Type of coat
Long, shiny, straight coat. Very soft and glossy.
Eye colour
Dark hazel.
Description
The Field Spaniel is a well-balanced, mid-sized dog, built for activity and resilience. He has long, floppy ears and soulful eyes, giving him a gentle and endearing appearance that matches his personality. His eyes are big and open, never almond, and his expression is serious and sweet. His fringed ears are moderately broad and long, and his fringed tail is worn low and very waggy.
Good to know
This sensitive dog is prone to separation anxiety. He needs constant company. His coat requires lots of grooming. A Field Spaniel needs a daily brush and regular trips to the doggy salon.
Temperament
-
100%
Affectionate
The Field Spaniel is a highly affectionate dog. A bit of a “softie” by nature, he loves human contact and will always be receptive to strokes and cuddles.
-
100%
Playful
Like most Spaniels, the Field Spaniel definitely has its playful side, but he can also be a bit mischievous, especially during his puppy years.
-
66%
Calm
As long as he’s getting enough attention and exercise, Field Spaniels are fairly relaxed and well-behaved. These dogs need lots of attention, but will calm down when asked.
-
66%
Intelligent
He is a smart dog but does not adapt easily to all environments.
-
100%
Hunter
He is designed to flush out and bring back game. He is an ideal and trustworthy working assistant.
-
33%
Fearful / wary of strangers
He has no suspicion of strangers, and will greet anyone with enthusiasm.
-
33%
Independent
Field Spaniels are nowhere near as independent as other spaniel breeds. He requires daily grooming and lots of human contact.
Behaviour of the Field Spaniel
-
33%
Tolerates solitude
This dog is very susceptible to separation anxiety. He needs constant human or doggy company. If you can't provide it for him, then a Field Spaniel is not the dog for you.
-
66%
Easy to train / obedience
Training a Field Spaniel can be quite difficult. He is docile, but still has a strong enough character to require a certain firmness. However, he is a sensitive dog who should not be rushed.
-
100%
Barking
The Field Spaniel will bark a lot, especially when left alone for too long.
-
100%
Tendency to run away
His strong hunting instinct and dynamic energy push him to run away if his environment is not secure.
-
100%
Destructive
Like all dogs, any long periods of frustration and boredom will lead to bad behaviour, which can include becoming destructive around the home. Field Spaniels are prone to this type of behaviour, so make sure they’ve always got plenty of company and distractions.
-
66%
Greedy / Gluttony
Treats are a great way to positively reinforce good behaviour!
-
66%
Guard dog
He is a good alert dog, but is in no way dissuasive because he just likes everyone!
-
100%
First dog
This Spaniel can easily integrate into a family of novice masters, but he needs to live in the countryside.
Access the rest of the content after the ad
Loading advertisement ...
Is the Field Spaniel right for you?
take the testLifestyle
-
33%
Field Spaniel in a flat
A flat, or city life in general, is not an ideal environment for a Field Spaniel.
-
100%
Need for exercise / Sporty
He is a very sporty dog who, if not working on a hunt, must at least have around two hours of exercise each day. A shorter morning walk followed by a late afternoon run is ideal.
-
66%
Travelling / easy to transport
These medium sized dogs are fairly easy to travel with. He will become especially docile after a long walk, so it’s a good idea to tire him out before long journeys.
Compatibility
-
66%
Field Spaniel and cats
His hunting instinct can make cohabitation complicated, unless both species have grown together.
-
100%
Field Spaniel and dogs
Field Spaniels are great around other dogs. He will rarely display any aggressive behaviour as he will prefer to make friends instead.
-
66%
Field Spaniel and children
This is a perfect dog for families with young children. Field Spaniels are gentle, loving, and soft-natured animals. That being said, children must learn to respect him, and leave him alone when necessary.
-
%}
66%
Field Spaniel and the elderly
Field Spaniels make ideal pets for active elderly people who enjoy long country walks.
Price
Between £400 for Non KC Registered dogs, and £800 for KC Registered dogs. Looking after a dog of this size typically costs between £65 to £120 a month, including food, medical/insurance, and incidental expenses.
Grooming
His long, silky coat requires attention to avoid knots, and will need brushing every single day. His droopy ears should be inspected regularly.
Shedding
Moderate shedder.
Nutrition of the Field Spaniel
2-3 cups of high quality dog food depending on age and activity levels.
Health of the Field Spaniel
Life expectancy
A well-bred dog with an average life expectancy of 11 years.
Strong / robust
This dog is tougher than he looks, but he certainly has his softer side. He’s nowhere near as robust as other Spaniel breeds, like the Springer or American Water Spaniel. Care must be taken not to overexert him before 10 months.
Withstand heat
Spaniels have no problems coping with the average British summer, but shouldn’t be subjected to extreme heat.
Withstand cold
Their long coats have more style than substance. They’re not very insulating; a Field Spaniel will need a doggy coat during the coldest parts of the year, and should sleep indoors with his family.
Tendency to put on weight
His high energy allows him to stay in good shape.
Common illnesses
- Hip Dysplasia
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Hyperthyroidism
- IOHC (Incomplete Ossification of the Humeral Condyle)