The field spaniel is the most sporting of all the spaniel varieties. They were bred for hunting and retrieving land and water. They have webbed-type paws, so it makes them excellent swimmers.
They are medium-sized, loyal, athletic and loving dogs. This could be the perfect breed if you have an active family or are looking for a running partner or an agility class companion.
Working dogs need a lot of exercise and this guy is no different. They need plenty of exercise and playtime. They could make the perfect jogging partner, this is not a breed for couch potatoes, and you will need to be able to commit to long walks and endless games to keep them happy. This is not a suitable apartment dog.
They love to be with you and the family. They do have a tenancy to bond with one particular person more. They are great with kids and will run around the garden all day. They do not cope well with being left alone and are prone to suffering from separation anxiety. These are not dogs for people who work full time.
A bored dog will usually become a naughty dog, whether it be nuisance barking, chewing or digging. Try to ensure they are occupied with jobs, playtime or plenty of exercise to keep them out of trouble.
They are OK watchdogs that will usually alert you to suspicious activities but aren’t known to be excessive barkers. They are a bit un-trusting of strangers, so make sure you socialise with them early to avoid this.
They should be fine with other dogs and cats if brought up with them. They are hunters, so the instinctive need to chase neighbour’s cats and small animals is probably too strong to control. Ensure your outside area is well enclosed, and they can’t escape when giving chase.
They are very sensitive and intelligent dogs. You will need to identify their reward motivation early for the best results. With sensitive dogs, be sure to keep the training fun and interesting, don’t treat them harshly or forcefully; they make sulk or hide from you.
They are probably the lowest maintenance of the spaniel breeds. They have medium-length silky hair and are only moderate shedders. They require at least weekly brushing, but their love of water means you may also be bathing them regularly.
Field Spaniel Stats
The Field Spaniel breed evolved 150 years ago and developed in the English countryside. The Field is an ancient breed, first known as the Black Spaniel or Land Spaniel, but is now predominantly liver (brown) in colour, arising from crossing the Sussex Spaniel and after World War II with the English Springer Spaniel.
- Weight – 16kg –23kg
- Size – 40cm – 26cm
- They live for 13-15 years