Solid Liver, Solid Black, Tan Markings, Speckled, White/Black, Blue Roan, Liver/White, Red Roan, Tricolours, Blue/Tan, red Roan/Tan, Solid Tan.
Medium
Large
Moderate Shed
18 inches (46 cm.)
30-45 pounds (16 - 22.5 kg.)
18 inches (46 cm.)
30-45 pounds (16 - 22.5 kg.)
The Field Spaniel is best suited for a house or larger living space simply because they need to run about in a yard or fenced in area. They are not well suited for apartment homes or smaller dwellings since they can become neurotic and temperamental if they do not have enough space. These dogs still have roots in natural hunting environments, and it is important that they are not let out of sight on a regular basis. A fenced-in property is the safest place for these dogs to roam and run in, as they are likely to simply follow a scent if they are left unattended. This breed prefers cooler climates and will exhibit neurotic behavior if it is simply locked away.
Description
The Field Spaniel is a moderately-sized dog that has a heavier and longer build than a Cocker Spaniel. Since it has a rich and lustrous coat, this dog breed is commonly used as a show dog and has one of the sweetest and mild-mannered personalities. Its coat is silky and generally solid in color. Some breeds have tan and speckled markings, while others have spots of white on the chest. The silky coat is usually either liver-colored or all black.
The Field Spaniel's coat is usually feathered but never curly. These dogs have regular-sized muzzles, and large noses with open nostrils. A gentle but noble expression is common for this breed, and almond-shaped eyes in hazel or chestnut brown are signature traits. The face is lean, thin, and attractive; this is an important feature for show dogs and makes the Field Spaniel especially desirable. The eyes are not too full, and may be nearly black. They often have a grave expression that further emphasizes their natural docility. Ears are usually set low which adds to the beauty of the head. They have natural Setter-like feather that makes the head and neck area especially attractive. The neck is usually strong, muscular, and lean; these dogs stand tall and confdient, and have moderatealy long, fringed ears. The tail is usually docked and tucked under. The body is long and very low, and a well-ribbed dog will stand straight or slightly arched.
Field spaniels are natural sporting dogs and are capable of creating a very beautiful and useful stage presence.
Trianing the field spaniel can take time but the effort is worthwile; this breed makes an excellent show dog and is easily trainable after only a few sessions. After initial bonding time with the owner, a Field Spaniel becomes especially loyal and can be a great companion dog as well. Its mild manners and even temperament make it suitable for a variety of households, families, and owners.
The Field Spaniel has a thin and glossy coat can be speckled or just plain tan with white spots. The coat is of moderate length and can be flat or slightly wavy. This breed is highly weather resistant, and thus prefers cooler climates and even wet weather. The most common coat is black, but some coats may also be mahogany red, golden liver, or plain liver in color. White in the chest area is also fairly common.
History
The Field Spaniel is of English origin, and is a descendant of the carefully bred English Cocker Spaniel. The Field Spaniel was almost ruined by poor selection practices during the later part of the 1800's when breeders exaggerated the dog's natural weight and length. The breed remains rare to this day, and is a coveted show dog as a result. It was not until the later 1920's that the dog rose to prominence in the western world, and is one again enjoying attention for its natural beauty and key characteristics.
The Field Spaniel is considered to be a good bird dog because of its mild disposition. They make wonderful family companions, and have risen in popularity for tracking, hunting and retrieving. Many pet owners also enjoy keeping these dogs as watchdogs. The Field Spaniel is a classic breed and is a top choice for many sporting groups and hunting groups as well.
Field Spaniels were first developed for conformation showing purposes, but they have slowly become family dogs as well. Variations of the breed include Cocker Spaniels and Irish Water Spaniels. Show breeders find this dog to be especially attractive because of its clean silhouettes and rarity of the breed itself.
Some color breeders of the Field Spaniel have endeavored to bring back the true Spaniel type that may not necessarily have been all black. Variety colors have also included white, black and white, quadri-colors, and liver white and tan. The Field Spaniel is often considered to be a dog with perfect balance; fine character, great beauty, and natural hunters make this a very attractive addition to show breeders and dog collectors. They are naturally enthusiastic and affectionate. These dogs make beautiful pets for families, as well as showroom dogs for pet owners interested in contests.
Temperament
The Field Spaniel is incredibly docile, calm, but also independent in nature. These dogs are smart, intelligent, and playful; they are also very active and can be full of energy. They make excellent family pets because of their drive to please and friendly nature, and they are especially good with young children because of their soft and docile presence. It is important that this breed is socialized well so that they do not become too timid; this is a natural trait and they can be very friendly and sociable once they break out of their comfort zone. If the dog is undersocialized in early years, it will be much less likely to interact with strangers.
Field spaniels enjoy roaming and exploring, and are often involved with playing and activities. If play becomes too rough, however, they may become timid, withdrawn, and unsociable. It is important to monitor them in their early years so that they do not become temperamental in new situations. Tehse dogs have a tendency to become stubborn, but they are calm and placid overall. They become very happy when they have an activity to do or a project to complete; they are quick learners and will pay attention to direction and the owner's voice. Training the Field Spaniel is relatively easy and they are very sensitive to voice, tone, and manners. It is important to be direct and not too harsh with these dogs as they will pick up any nuances and behaviors immediately. A tough approach will likely disturb them and may result in reluctant behavior traits.
The Field Spaniel is famous for becoming devoted to only one family member and ignoring other parties as a result. They can become neurotic if they are locked away in a kennel, and need regular contact with a variety of people. These dogs are very trustworthy, dependable, and loyal. They can be very affectionate and loving, and become excellent family dogs over the long term. The Field Spaniel matures at an average rate, and is a quick learner and eager to grow by learning new skills.
Health Problems
Field Spaniels are generally quite healthy and can withstand various Health conditions. The most common special medical conditions to be concerned about include:
The Field Spaniel's naturally glossy coat needs to be brushed and combed at least twice per week, minimally just once per week. Any straggling hairs and excessive hair can be cut every few months, and taking the dog to the dog grooming parlor on a monthly basis will take care of the basic necessities.
Show dogs need a professional groomer at least four times per year, since this is where any dead hair can be removed with plucking. Hair may also be thinned out in the ears, legs, and neck area. These dogs are considered fairly high maintenance in the show dog field since they need consistent attention to keep their hair smooth, clean, and shiny. These dogs rarely shed hair. Bathing and shampooing is necessary when the dog has been playing in dirt, and it's a good idea to have the skin and ears checked by a Vet on a regular basis.
Checking for ticks during tick season can prevent infection and disease, and nails should never be allowed to grow too long. Field Spaniels naturally have webbed feet and excessive hair may lead to too much moisture and infection.
Exercise
The Field Spaniel has roots as a working field dog and needs a lot of exercise. A field or large garden space is ideal for these dogs to run about and get at least a few hours of exercise each day. These dogs enjoy long walks, and can accompany their owners on nature trails, running, or running alongside a bicycle. It's important to keep the Field Spaniel on a leash as they have a tendency to explore a new environment simply by following their nose. They adapt easily to family settings and groups, and make valuable companions on trips. They need to be taken on at least 1-2 long walks per day, preferably on a leash.
Fetching games and other outdoor toys are attractive to the Field Spaniel, but the ideal activities are running and walking. The Field Spaniel is naturally playful and will take part in activities with familiar owners or guardians. It is important to keep track of their whereabouts, especially in the dark. Field Spaniels have plenty of energy to play all day, and enjoy new environments and settings.
Field Spaniels need a large amount of exercise so that they do not become neurotic or bored. They are very sensitive to nature, and can be quick to respond to shifts, changes, or loud noises. It is important to take them outdoors in a safe and nurturing environment; very young puppies should be trained and exercised at home before exploring larger territory. The Field Spaniel is a natural hunter and will have a tendency to get lost if they are left on their own. This breed stays healthy and happy when they have an opportunity to explore with their owners or guardians.
Training
Field Spaniels are naturally independent but they learn very quickly. They are commonly involved with play, and are docile by nature. Training these dogs is not difficult as they are intelligent and friendly and will be fairly open to learning new skills and activities. They will withdraw if they are treated roughly so it is important to be careful with the training process from the start. Younger puppies can be especially timid and shy, so creating a bond first will help overcome initial training obstacles.
Field Spaniels have a tendency to bark too quickly and abruptly after slight sounds and events. They may not listen to commands or directions if they are afraid or anxious, so it is important that training takes place in a secure and non-threatening environment. These dogs require early socialization to prevent timidity, so taking them out to the dog park so that they can mingle with other dogs is very important. They may exhibit aggression later on in life if they did not receive appropriate socialization; it is important to remain firm, fair, and consistent to make positive changes. Field spaniels are especially valuable for hunting, retrieving and tracking. This is helpful for any activities that can help improve the dog's natural abilities and skills.
Every puppy will need to be trained differently, and this is especially important for the youngest set of Field Spaniels. They can become naturally attached to just one owner, and helping them develop bonds with other members of the family and other dogs is an essential part of training. These dogs learn new tricks and skills naturally, especially when they are given the chance to run around and engage in physical activity. They are moderately active indoors, and will engage in a multitude of activities with owners on a regular basis. This provides plenty of opportunities for interaction and training. As watchdogs, the Field Spaniel can be trained to be especially observant and vigilant.
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Ratings and Attributes
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