Field Spaniel

• The Field Spaniel dog breed is a medium-sized spaniel. They are slightly longer and heavier than the Cocker, with a strong, muscular neck. Their coat is silky and usually a solid liver or black, although some may be speckled or have tan markings, with some white in the chest.

• The coat on the ears, undersides, chest, and legs is feathered, but not curled.

• The large nose has noticeably open nostrils, and the hazel or brown eyes are almond-shaped, with a noble, serious, gentle expression.

———————— Temperament ————————

• Field Spaniels have wonderfully unique personalities; they are mild mannered, docile, affectionate, and sweet, with an independent nature. They are playful, active, and smart. Although they love everyone they meet, they may be somewhat reserved around strangers.

• Dogs need to be well-socialized early in life to avoid timidity. They like to roam, so need to be kept close; they do not do well if left without human contact for too long.

• Excellent with other dogs, children, and other pets, Field Spaniels make good family dogs as long as play is not too rough.

• Calm dogs overall, they are at their best when they are given a job to do. These dogs are quick learners, and they enjoy training that is calm but consistent.

———————— Height and Weight ————————

• Adult dogs tend to be around 18 inches tall and weigh around 35-50 pounds.

———————— Living Conditions and Exercise ————————

• The Field Spaniel dog breed does best with a large yard, and is not recommended for apartment living. This breed is moderately active even indoors and needs space to move and play.

• The hunting instinct is deeply rooted, so a good fence is necessary for off-the-leash play. Dogs require plenty of exercise, so an active family is best. Although they prefer time to follow their noses and roam, they can be kept happy and healthy with long daily walks.

• Field Spaniels should not be kept in a kennel; they will often become neurotic when locked away without their families.

———————— Life Expectancy ————————

• Well-cared for dogs can be expected to live 10-12 years.

———————— Grooming ————————

• The coat should be combed and brushed at least once if not twice a week, and straggling hair requires trimming a few times a year. Keep ears clean.

• Show dogs will require professional grooming every three months.

———————— History ————————

• The Field Spaniel dog breed originated in England, and is a descendent of the English Cocker Spaniel. In the 1800s the breed was nearly ruined by breeders selecting for exaggerated length and weight, but by the 1920s this practice was eliminated.

• Field Spaniels are natural bird dogs with mild dispositions. They are also skilled hunters, retrievers, trackers, and watchdogs.

• Although they are excellent companion and family dogs, the breed remains rare in the United States.

———————— Group and Recognition ————————

• Grouping: Gun Dog, AKC Sporting

• Recognition: CKC, ACR, NKC, APRI, FCI, KCGB, AKC, UKC, ANKC, NZKC

Return to Breeds of Dogs from Field Spaniel Dog Breed