Field Spaniel
The Field Spaniel is a medium-sized breed that originated in England. They are known for their loyal nature, intelligence, and athleticism.


Field Spaniel Breed overview
Field Spaniels are loving and affectionate family dogs, with a moderate energy level and exercise requirements. They are generally friendly with children and other dogs, but may require some patience and consistent training. They have a natural hunting instinct and can make good working dogs or hunting companions for experienced hunters. They may be prone to separation anxiety and may require extra attention and training to prevent destructive behavior. Regular grooming and veterinary care can help maintain their health and appearance.
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What To Expect When Caring For a Field Spaniel
Training
Field Spaniels are an intelligent breed that are generally easy to train if trained in a positive and consistent manner.
They should be socialized from a young age to ensure that they are comfortable around other dogs and people, and should be given plenty of opportunities to play and explore.
Field Spaniels respond well to positive reinforcement-based training, and should be trained using rewards-based methods such as treats or praise.
Exercise
Field Spaniels are an athletic breed that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.
They should be taken for at least one long walk or run each day, and should be given plenty of opportunities to play and explore their environment.
Field Spaniels also enjoy swimming and retrieving, and may excel in various dog sports, such as agility or flyball.
Grooming
Field Spaniels have a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best.
They should be brushed at least once a week to remove any tangles or knots in their fur, and should be bathed as needed. It is also important to keep their ears clean and dry to prevent ear infections.
Field Spaniels should have their nails trimmed regularly to prevent them from becoming too long and causing discomfort, and their teeth should be brushed regularly to prevent dental problems.
Nutrition
Field Spaniels should be fed a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level.
They are prone to obesity, so it is important to monitor their food intake and ensure that they are not overeating.
Field Spaniels should be provided with plenty of fresh, clean water at all times, and should be fed on a regular schedule to prevent digestive problems.
Health
Field Spaniels are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health problems. Some of the most common health issues in Field Spaniels include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and ear infections.
To keep your Field Spaniel healthy, it is important to schedule regular check-ups with a veterinarian, feed them a high-quality diet, and ensure that they get plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
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Field Spaniel Traits & Characteristics
Field Spaniels should stand between 17 and 18 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 35 and 50 pounds. Their coat should be dense and glossy, and should lie flat against the body.
They should have an alert expression and a docked tail, which should be set low. Their head should be well-proportioned, and their ears should be long, reaching the nose when pulled forward.
Field Spaniels should be well-muscled and athletic in appearance, with a deep chest and well-sprung ribs. Their legs should be straight and powerful, and their feet should be round and compact.
Affection
The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.
Field Spaniels are loving and affectionate dogs. They love to be around their family and thrive on human interaction. They will happily snuggle up with their owners and enjoy being petted and stroked. They bond strongly with their family and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone too often.
Children
How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.
Field Spaniels are good with children, but can be a bit sensitive and reserved. They prefer gentle play and may get overwhelmed by loud noises or rough play. They tend to be patient and tolerant with children, but should still be supervised to avoid accidental injury to either the dog or child.
Dogs
The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.
Field Spaniels are generally friendly towards other dogs, but can be a bit reserved with unfamiliar dogs. They do best with gradual introductions to new dogs and should be supervised during playtime. Their hunting instincts may lead them to chase smaller animals, so caution should be taken around cats and other small pets.
Strangers
The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.
Field Spaniels are generally friendly towards strangers, but can be a bit reserved or shy at first. They do not tend to be aggressive towards humans and are generally not overly protective of their family. However, they may bark or become alarmed at unfamiliar sounds or people.
Playfulness
The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.
Field Spaniels have a moderate energy level and are generally playful dogs. They love to play with their families and enjoy toys such as balls and frisbees. However, they may not have the endurance or stamina of some other breeds and may tire quickly during long play sessions.
Alertness
The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs
Field Spaniels are generally alert and aware of their surroundings. They make good watchdogs because of their natural watchful nature. They may bark to alert their family to new sounds or visitors, but they are not typically overly aggressive or protective.
Adaptability
The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.
Field Spaniels can be moderately adaptable to new environments and situations. They do not tend to be overly sensitive or anxious, but they may need time to adjust to new people or places. They may be more prone to separation anxiety than some other breeds and may need extra attention and training in this area.
Shedding
The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.
Field Spaniels have a moderate amount of shedding. Regular grooming can help reduce shedding and keep their coat healthy. They should be brushed at least once a week and bathed as needed to keep their coat shiny and free of tangles and mats.
Grooming
The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.
Field Spaniels have a high grooming requirement, due to their thick, medium-length coat. They require regular brushing, at least once or twice a week. They should also be bathed as needed and their coat trimmed to maintain its shape. In addition to their coat, they will also need regular nail trimming and ear cleaning.
Drooling
The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.
Field Spaniels are not known to be heavy droolers. They have a dry mouth and do not typically slobber or drool excessively. However, they may still need regular cleaning around their mouth to prevent any buildup of bacteria or dirt.
Size
The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.
Field Spaniels are a medium-sized breed, weighing between 35 and 50 pounds and standing 17 to 18 inches tall at the shoulder. They are sturdy and well-proportioned, with a long, thick coat that comes in shades of black, liver, or golden liver.
Energy
The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.
Field Spaniels have a moderate energy level and require regular exercise and playtime. They enjoy playing and going for walks, but may not have the stamina for long hikes or intense exercise. They may become restless or anxious if they do not receive enough physical activity and should have access to a secure, fenced yard where they can play safely.
Exercise
The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Field Spaniels have moderate exercise needs and require regular activity and playtime to maintain good health. They should receive daily walks or runs and have access to a secure, fenced yard where they can play safely. They may enjoy activities such as obedience training or agility courses to help keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
Working
The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.
Field Spaniels were originally bred for hunting, and can still make good working dogs for hunting or other tasks. They have a strong prey drive and good scenting abilities, which can be utilized in a variety of working roles. However, they also make good family pets and companions, thanks to their friendly and affectionate nature.
Hunting
The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.
Field Spaniels were originally bred for hunting and still retain their natural hunting instincts. They have a strong prey drive and enjoy tracking and flushing out birds and other prey. They can make good hunting companions for experienced hunters, but their hunting instincts may lead them to chase smaller animals, so caution should be taken around cats and other small pets.
Vigor
The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.
Field Spaniels have moderate physical stamina and endurance. They enjoy being active and engaging in play with their family, but may tire more quickly than some other breeds. They may benefit from gradually building up their exercise intensity and duration to maintain good health and fitness.
Health
The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.
Field Spaniels are generally healthy dogs, but may be prone to certain health conditions, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and ear infections. They should receive regular veterinary care and monitoring to maintain good health. A healthy diet and exercise can also help prevent obesity, which can exacerbate these conditions.
Obesity
The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.
Field Spaniels may be prone to obesity if they do not receive enough exercise or are overfed. They should receive a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise to maintain good health. Treats should be given in moderation and used as a reward for good behavior.
Cold
The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.
Field Spaniels can tolerate cold weather conditions, but may require extra warmth and protection during very cold weather. This is especially true for puppies or senior dogs, who may be more sensitive to the cold. They should have access to a warm, dry shelter if spending time outside during cold weather.
Heat
The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.
Field Spaniels may be somewhat sensitive to hot weather conditions and may require extra cooling and hydration during hot weather. They should have access to plenty of shade and water if spending time outside during hot weather, and should be exercised during the cooler parts of the day.
Apartment
The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.
Field Spaniels are not the best choice for apartment living due to their moderate energy level and exercise needs. They require regular access to a secure, fenced yard where they can run and play safely. They may become restless, anxious or bored if they do not receive enough physical activity.
Wanderlust
The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.
Field Spaniels have moderate wanderlust and may be prone to wandering or exploring their surroundings. They should always be supervised during outdoor playtime and kept on a leash during walks or hikes. They may also benefit from training to improve their recall and obedience.
Sensitivity
The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.
Field Spaniels can be sensitive dogs and may require gentle training and handling. They do not respond well to harsh discipline or negative reinforcement. They may become stressed or anxious in new situations, so gradual introductions to new people or places are recommended.
Separation
The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.
Field Spaniels may be prone to separation anxiety and may become anxious or destructive when left alone for long periods of time. They do best in homes where someone is present most of the day or where they have a companion dog to keep them company. Crate training and gradually building up alone time can also help reduce separation anxiety.
Barking
The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.
Field Spaniels can be vocal dogs and may bark to alert their family to new sounds or visitors. However, they are not typically excessive barkers and do not tend to bark without reason. They may become quiet and reserved in new situations or around people they are not familiar with.
Mental
The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.
Field Spaniels have moderate mental stimulation needs. They are intelligent dogs and enjoy learning new tricks and commands. They may become bored or restless if they do not have enough mental stimulation and may engage in destructive behaviors such as chewing or digging.
Novice_owners
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
Field Spaniels can be a good choice for novice dog owners, but may require some patience and consistency with training. They are generally friendly and adaptable dogs, but may be prone to separation anxiety and may need extra attention and training in this area.
Trainability
The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.
Field Spaniels are generally trainable, but may require some patience and consistency. They are intelligent and can learn a variety of commands and tricks. However, they can also be stubborn and may not always respond immediately to training. Positive reinforcement and reward-based training can help motivate them and make training more enjoyable for both the dog and the owner.
Affection
The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.
Field Spaniels are loving and affectionate dogs. They love to be around their family and thrive on human interaction. They will happily snuggle up with their owners and enjoy being petted and stroked. They bond strongly with their family and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone too often.
Children
How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.
Field Spaniels are good with children, but can be a bit sensitive and reserved. They prefer gentle play and may get overwhelmed by loud noises or rough play. They tend to be patient and tolerant with children, but should still be supervised to avoid accidental injury to either the dog or child.
Dogs
The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.
Field Spaniels are generally friendly towards other dogs, but can be a bit reserved with unfamiliar dogs. They do best with gradual introductions to new dogs and should be supervised during playtime. Their hunting instincts may lead them to chase smaller animals, so caution should be taken around cats and other small pets.
Strangers
The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.
Field Spaniels are generally friendly towards strangers, but can be a bit reserved or shy at first. They do not tend to be aggressive towards humans and are generally not overly protective of their family. However, they may bark or become alarmed at unfamiliar sounds or people.
Playfulness
The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.
Field Spaniels have a moderate energy level and are generally playful dogs. They love to play with their families and enjoy toys such as balls and frisbees. However, they may not have the endurance or stamina of some other breeds and may tire quickly during long play sessions.
Alertness
The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs
Field Spaniels are generally alert and aware of their surroundings. They make good watchdogs because of their natural watchful nature. They may bark to alert their family to new sounds or visitors, but they are not typically overly aggressive or protective.
Adaptability
The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.
Field Spaniels can be moderately adaptable to new environments and situations. They do not tend to be overly sensitive or anxious, but they may need time to adjust to new people or places. They may be more prone to separation anxiety than some other breeds and may need extra attention and training in this area.
Shedding
The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.
Field Spaniels have a moderate amount of shedding. Regular grooming can help reduce shedding and keep their coat healthy. They should be brushed at least once a week and bathed as needed to keep their coat shiny and free of tangles and mats.
Grooming
The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.
Field Spaniels have a high grooming requirement, due to their thick, medium-length coat. They require regular brushing, at least once or twice a week. They should also be bathed as needed and their coat trimmed to maintain its shape. In addition to their coat, they will also need regular nail trimming and ear cleaning.
Drooling
The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.
Field Spaniels are not known to be heavy droolers. They have a dry mouth and do not typically slobber or drool excessively. However, they may still need regular cleaning around their mouth to prevent any buildup of bacteria or dirt.
Size
The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.
Field Spaniels are a medium-sized breed, weighing between 35 and 50 pounds and standing 17 to 18 inches tall at the shoulder. They are sturdy and well-proportioned, with a long, thick coat that comes in shades of black, liver, or golden liver.
Energy
The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.
Field Spaniels have a moderate energy level and require regular exercise and playtime. They enjoy playing and going for walks, but may not have the stamina for long hikes or intense exercise. They may become restless or anxious if they do not receive enough physical activity and should have access to a secure, fenced yard where they can play safely.
Exercise
The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Field Spaniels have moderate exercise needs and require regular activity and playtime to maintain good health. They should receive daily walks or runs and have access to a secure, fenced yard where they can play safely. They may enjoy activities such as obedience training or agility courses to help keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
Working
The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.
Field Spaniels were originally bred for hunting, and can still make good working dogs for hunting or other tasks. They have a strong prey drive and good scenting abilities, which can be utilized in a variety of working roles. However, they also make good family pets and companions, thanks to their friendly and affectionate nature.
Hunting
The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.
Field Spaniels were originally bred for hunting and still retain their natural hunting instincts. They have a strong prey drive and enjoy tracking and flushing out birds and other prey. They can make good hunting companions for experienced hunters, but their hunting instincts may lead them to chase smaller animals, so caution should be taken around cats and other small pets.
Vigor
The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.
Field Spaniels have moderate physical stamina and endurance. They enjoy being active and engaging in play with their family, but may tire more quickly than some other breeds. They may benefit from gradually building up their exercise intensity and duration to maintain good health and fitness.
Health
The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.
Field Spaniels are generally healthy dogs, but may be prone to certain health conditions, including hip dysplasia, eye problems, and ear infections. They should receive regular veterinary care and monitoring to maintain good health. A healthy diet and exercise can also help prevent obesity, which can exacerbate these conditions.
Obesity
The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.
Field Spaniels may be prone to obesity if they do not receive enough exercise or are overfed. They should receive a healthy, balanced diet and regular exercise to maintain good health. Treats should be given in moderation and used as a reward for good behavior.
Cold
The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.
Field Spaniels can tolerate cold weather conditions, but may require extra warmth and protection during very cold weather. This is especially true for puppies or senior dogs, who may be more sensitive to the cold. They should have access to a warm, dry shelter if spending time outside during cold weather.
Heat
The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.
Field Spaniels may be somewhat sensitive to hot weather conditions and may require extra cooling and hydration during hot weather. They should have access to plenty of shade and water if spending time outside during hot weather, and should be exercised during the cooler parts of the day.
Apartment
The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.
Field Spaniels are not the best choice for apartment living due to their moderate energy level and exercise needs. They require regular access to a secure, fenced yard where they can run and play safely. They may become restless, anxious or bored if they do not receive enough physical activity.
Wanderlust
The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.
Field Spaniels have moderate wanderlust and may be prone to wandering or exploring their surroundings. They should always be supervised during outdoor playtime and kept on a leash during walks or hikes. They may also benefit from training to improve their recall and obedience.
Sensitivity
The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.
Field Spaniels can be sensitive dogs and may require gentle training and handling. They do not respond well to harsh discipline or negative reinforcement. They may become stressed or anxious in new situations, so gradual introductions to new people or places are recommended.
Separation
The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.
Field Spaniels may be prone to separation anxiety and may become anxious or destructive when left alone for long periods of time. They do best in homes where someone is present most of the day or where they have a companion dog to keep them company. Crate training and gradually building up alone time can also help reduce separation anxiety.
Barking
The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.
Field Spaniels can be vocal dogs and may bark to alert their family to new sounds or visitors. However, they are not typically excessive barkers and do not tend to bark without reason. They may become quiet and reserved in new situations or around people they are not familiar with.
Mental
The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.
Field Spaniels have moderate mental stimulation needs. They are intelligent dogs and enjoy learning new tricks and commands. They may become bored or restless if they do not have enough mental stimulation and may engage in destructive behaviors such as chewing or digging.
Novice_owners
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
Field Spaniels can be a good choice for novice dog owners, but may require some patience and consistency with training. They are generally friendly and adaptable dogs, but may be prone to separation anxiety and may need extra attention and training in this area.
Trainability
The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.
Field Spaniels are generally trainable, but may require some patience and consistency. They are intelligent and can learn a variety of commands and tricks. However, they can also be stubborn and may not always respond immediately to training. Positive reinforcement and reward-based training can help motivate them and make training more enjoyable for both the dog and the owner.
Similar breeds
History of the Field Spaniel
The Field Spaniel was originally developed in the mid-19th century by crossing several different spaniel breeds, including the Cocker Spaniel.
They were specifically bred to be the ultimate hunting dog, able to handle everything from upland game birds to waterfowl. However, over time, their popularity declined, and they nearly went extinct in the mid-20th century.
Through the efforts of dedicated breeders, the breed was brought back from the brink of extinction in the 1950s and 1960s.
Today, they are still a relatively rare breed, but are beloved by those who know them for their loyal nature, intelligence, and athleticism.

Field Spaniel Puppies
Field Spaniel puppies should be well-behaved and trainable, but can also be quite boisterous and energetic.
They should be socialized from a young age to ensure that they are comfortable around other dogs and people, and should be given plenty of opportunities to play and explore.
Field Spaniels should be fed a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level, and should be provided with plenty of fresh, clean water at all times.