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.
|
Life expectancy |
The Field Spaniel has a life expectancy of between 10 and 12 years |
|
Temperament |
|
|
Size |
Medium
|
|
Adult size |
Female
Between 17 and 19 in
Male
Between 17 and 19 in
|
|
Adult weight |
Female
Between 40 and 55 lb
Male
Between 40 and 55 lb
|
|
Coat colour
Black, liver, tan, roan, and mixes of these colours. |
Black
Brown
Blue
|
|
Type of coat
Long, shiny, straight coat. Very soft and glossy. |
Long
|
|
Eye colour
Dark hazel. |
Brown
|
|
Purchase price |
The Field Spaniel costs between £400 and £800 |
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.
More details about the Field Spaniel
Field Spaniel: 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.
Physical characteristics of the Field Spaniel
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.
FCI classification of the Field Spaniel
-
Group 8 - Retrievers - Flushing Dogs - Water Dogs
-
Section 2 : Flushing Dogs
Field Spaniel: Characteristics
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.
Like most Spaniels, the Field Spaniel definitely has its playful side, but he can also be a bit mischievous, especially during his puppy years.
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.
He is a smart dog but does not adapt easily to all environments.
He is designed to flush out and bring back game. He is an ideal and trustworthy working assistant.
He has no suspicion of strangers, and will greet anyone with enthusiasm.
Field Spaniels are nowhere near as independent as other spaniel breeds. He requires daily grooming and lots of human contact.
Field Spaniel: Behaviour
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.
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.
The Field Spaniel will bark a lot, especially when left alone for too long.
His strong hunting instinct and dynamic energy push him to run away if his environment is not secure.
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.
Treats are a great way to positively reinforce good behaviour!
He is a good alert dog, but is in no way dissuasive because he just likes everyone!
Training a Field Spaniel
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.
Field Spaniel: Lifestyle
A flat, or city life in general, is not an ideal environment for a Field Spaniel.
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.
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.
Breed compatibility Field Spaniel
His hunting instinct can make cohabitation complicated, unless both species have grown together.
Field Spaniels are great around other dogs. He will rarely display any aggressive behaviour as he will prefer to make friends instead.
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.
Field Spaniels make ideal pets for active elderly people who enjoy long country walks.
This Spaniel can easily integrate into a family of novice masters, but he needs to live in the countryside.
Field Spaniel: Purchase 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.
Field Spaniel: Shedding
Average
Moderate shedder.
Field Spaniel: Grooming
His long, silky coat requires attention to avoid knots, and will need brushing every single day. His droopy ears should be inspected regularly.
Field Spaniel: Health
A well-bred dog with an average life expectancy of 11 years.
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.
Spaniels have no problems coping with the average British summer, but shouldn’t be subjected to extreme heat.
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.
His high energy allows him to stay in good shape.
- Hip Dysplasia
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
- Hyperthyroidism
- IOHC (Incomplete Ossification of the Humeral Condyle)
Do you want a Field Spaniel dog ?
Is the Field Spaniel right for you?
take the test
