Field Spaniel

The Field Spaniel is not recommended for apartment life. They are moderately active indoors and do best with at least a large yard. Because these dogs do have deeply rooted hunting instincts, it is essential to have a good fence surrounding your property, as otherwise they are likely to take off after any interesting scent. Do not lock this breed away in a kennel or it will become extremely neurotic. This breed prefers cool climates.

The Field Spaniel is primarily a working field dog which means that it really needs lots of exercise, and a sporty family suits it best. It will be happiest when given a chance to run and explore. But be aware that the Field Spaniel likes to follow its nose. It will however, adapt effortlessly to the family situation.

Hypoallergenic: NoThere are a few ocular conditions to which the Field Spaniel has a predisposition. These include cataracts, retinal atrophy and retinal dysplasia. Hip dysplasia has appeared in British lines of Field Spaniels. In a health survey conducted by the Kennel Club (UK), the primary cause of death in Field Spaniels was cancer, with the second most frequent cause being old age. The median lifespan for the breed was found to be eleven years and eight months, which is five months higher than the median age for all dog breeds.

Somewhat longer than tall, solidly built with moderate bone, the field spaniel is a dog without exaggeration, a combination of beauty and utility. Its stride is long and low, with head held proudly and alertly and the tail wagging but not carried high. The field spaniel is built for both activity and stamina, enabling it to hunt in dense cover or water. It has a single coat, which is flat or slightly wavy and moderately long, giving it protection from thorns and water. The expression is grave and gentle.

The Field Spaniel is happiest when it has a job to do. Although independent in nature, it is devoted, sensitive and willing to please. Always cheerful and affectionate, it is an excellent family companion as long as it is given regular exercise. The field spaniel is especially known for its tractable nature. It is typical for a field spaniel to be somewhat reserved with strangers.

Originating in England in the 1800s, the Field Spaniel used to be considered the same breed as the English Cocker Spaniel. The dog was used to flush and retrieve both fur and feather from land and water. In the 20th century it was decided that anything above 25 pounds would be considered a Field Spaniel and anything below would be an English Cocker Spaniel, and the two were officially separated into different breeds. During the 1800s the Field Spaniel was being bred with a greatly exaggerated length and weight. Almost a hundred years later in the 1920s, the standard returned to a moderate length and weight. Although it is a fine bird dog with a great, mild disposition, the breed remains rare to this day, most likely due to the extreme popularity of the Cocker Spaniel. The Field Spaniel was recognized by the AKC in 1894. Some of the Field Spaniel's talents are tracking, hunting, retrieving and watchdog.