Field Spaniel

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Field Spaniel originated in England and was bred to retrieve and hunt game alongside their owners. These dogs are a mixture of the Basset Hound, English Springer Spaniel and the Sussex Spaniel which gives them their longer body and shorter height.

This breed has a compact, solidly built body that is slightly longer than it is tall. Their ears are large and floppy which aid in listening for their quiet prey. The Field Spaniel has a large muzzle, to carry game in, and big friendly eyes. Their legs are toned which provides them with agility and speed when retrieving. Naturally this breed has a long tail, but will be docked for show purposes.

The Field Spaniel is a relaxed breed that thrives on the attention and affection they get from their owners. They are sweet and cheerful dogs that will make excellent family pets. This breed adores children and will interact well with other animals. Although their calm nature is evident, they will need socialization extensively as puppies to get to this state. People and other dogs will need to constantly be around this breed for them to learn and become comfortable in various social situations.

Color

The Field Spaniel will come in black or liver. Spotting or tiny markings of white or cream are accepted but the most commonly seen coloring is solid liver.

Coat

This breed has a longer, sleek coat that is slightly wavy and soft to the touch. The fur cascades to their under belly, chest and legs giving them a wispy look. Grooming will be needed on a weekly basis but nothing extensive.

Personality

The Field Spaniel is an energetic breed that will need an owner who has the time to spend with them and the energy to do outdoor activities. They love to run, chase and hunt so exercise should involve some swimming and running. Jolly, spirited and clever, the Field Spaniel will make a hardworking hunting partner and also a loyal, loving family companion. Despite their outgoing character, they will be more weary of people whom they haven't met but once they are introduced, will quickly warm up. These dogs are notorious for the bonds they develop with the owners. They devote their lives to pleasing their families and will not seek attention from anyone else. The Field Spaniel should be included in the pack as much as possible and shouldn't be left alone for long periods of time.

Care

The Field Spaniel will need a minimal amount of grooming to upkeep their coat. Brushing once per week and bathing every 2 months will be perfect. They have a longer coat but with regular grooming, will not become matted or tangled. These dogs are prone to ear infections most commonly because of their large floppy ears. The areas in which they would normally hunt are usually wet and humid so this adds to the already easily infected area. Hip dysplasia might also be inherited genetically but if the potential owner checks the puppy's parent's medical history, they may avoid this ailment.

Training

These dogs are incredibly clever and will be an easier breed to train in obedience and for the most part, will stay open minded and alert. They have been known to have a stubborn streak but with repetition and firm methods, their owner will succeed and the dog will grasp the concept. The Field Spaniel is definitely not a breed to use negative training methods on as they will become sad and depressed if they see their owner is not happy with them.

Activity

The Field Spaniel will need at least 1-2 hours of exercise per day to tire them out. Swimming, running and hiking are the best options to burn this breed's energy and while doing so, they will have the time of their lives! They will do well in a household environment that has a backyard because they need as much room as possible to live and roam in.