Descended through careful and selective breeding of the English Cocker Spaniel, the Field Spaniel's country of origin is England. During the 1800's this breed nearly became extinct due to poor breeding practices. However, by the 1920's they were re-developed into an extremely fine bird dog. Due to the immense popularity of the Springer and Cocker Spaniels, the Field Spaniel is quite rare in the United States.
A well-balanced, medium-sized breed, the Field Spaniel is the total embodiment of utility, beauty, hunter, and companion. They are built for activity and endurance in water as well as heavy cover. Field Spaniels are noble, proud, and docile with abundant enthusiasm and affection.
Of the Spaniel breeds, the Field Spaniel is considered to have the best personality. They are playful, intelligent, sweet, and well mannered. This breed has a tendency to be reserved with strangers, but generally loves everyone. They are very independent and may be stubborn. The Field Spaniel is excellent with considerate well-behaved children. They are good with other dogs and animals. Field Spaniels do have a tendency to become overly attached to one specific family member and will ignore all others. They thrive on human companionship and interaction and will become neurotic if deprived of this. They are alert and will bark an alarm to visitors or unfamiliar sounds. With their retrieving nature, this breed loves to carry objects around in their mouths.
Field Spaniels require combing and brushing at least twice weekly. Professional grooming is recommended at least four times a year. The ears should be checked and cleaned on a regular basis. The Field Spaniel is prone to such health issues as hip dysplasia, thyroid disease, ear infections, and eye problems. They prefer cooler climates.
The Field Spaniel has a coat of moderate length. It is either flat, or may be slightly wavy. Dense in texture, it makes this breed weather resistant. The coat is silky, glossy, and has setter-like feathering behind the legs, on the chest, and on the stomach. The most common coat color is black, but may also come in liver, mahogany red, or golden liver. Tan markings or speckles may also be present.
The Field Spaniel requires early socialization to prevent timidity and dog aggression later in life. This breed is at its best when given a job to do. They learn quickly, but have a sensitive nature. They will not respond to harshness or a heavy-handed approach when being trained. Field Spaniels need a firm, fair, consistent, and loving method of training. They excel in tracking, hunting, and retrieving.
Field Spaniels need an inordinate amount of exercise, and are not suited for a sedentary family. They are at their best when given a chance to romp and run. The Field Spaniel is not recommended for apartment dwelling. They are moderately active indoors, but need a large securely fenced yard, or a home in the country. Swimming, playing ball, jogging, or hunting will keep this breed healthy and happy.
35-50 lbs
Male: 18; Female: 17 inches
black, liver, roan, or any of these with tan points
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