Spaniel (Field)

Origins and History

The Field Spaniel originated in England in the late 19th century as a dedicated hunting companion. Developed from the English Springer Spaniel, Sussex Spaniel and other native spaniels, it was bred to work both on land and in water, excelling at flushing and retrieving game in field conditions. The breed was recognised by the Kennel Club (UK) in 1905 and later accepted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in Group 7 (Pointing Dogs and Setters). Although numbers declined after the World Wars, dedicated fanciers revived the breed, preserving its functional abilities while establishing a distinct conformation standard.

General Characteristics

• Medium‑sized, compact and well‑balanced; a sturdy, athletic build suited for endurance work.
• Intelligent, eager to please and highly trainable; temperament combines enthusiasm with a gentle disposition.
• Originally a field hunting dog; today used in field trials, obedience, agility and as a family companion.

Disclaimer: The information provided reflects current breed standards and common observations, but individual dogs may vary.

Physical Specifications

• Height (at withers): Males 18–20 inches (45–50 cm); Females 17–19 inches (43–48 cm).
• Weight: Approximately 35–45 lb (16–20 kg), proportionate to height and build.
• Body: Deep chest, well‑arched topline, level croup, strong forequarters and muscular hindquarters.
• Head: Medium length, stop well defined, eyes dark brown, ears long, set low and carried close to the head.

Coat and Color

• Coat: Medium‑length, dense, wavy to slightly curly; water‑resistant outer coat with a softer undercoat.
• Accepted colors (per KC/FCI): Liver (solid), liver and white, liver roan, black, black and white, black roan, and tricolor (black, liver and white). All colors should be clear and well‑defined, without excessive ticking.

Temperament Considerations

Field Spaniels are naturally enthusiastic and possess a strong retrieving instinct. Their sociable nature makes them eager participants in group activities, but they can become bored if mental stimulation is lacking. Early exposure to varied environments helps channel their high energy positively.

Training Essentials

• Socialization: Introduce to people, children, other dogs, and diverse stimuli between 8–16 weeks.
• Exercise needs: Minimum 1–2 hours of vigorous activity daily (field work, fetch, agility, long walks).
• Common training challenges: Tendency to become overly excited during retrieval; may require impulse‑control exercises and consistent cue reinforcement.
• Positive‑reinforcement methods work best; harsh corrections can diminish confidence.

Daily Grooming

• Brushing: 2–3 times per week with a slicker brush to remove loose hair and prevent matting.
• Bathing: As needed, typically every 4–6 weeks or when the coat becomes dirty; use a mild, pH‑balanced dog shampoo.
• Nail care: Trim nails every 3–4 weeks to maintain a comfortable walking length.
• Dental care: Brush teeth several times a week or provide dental chews to reduce plaque.

Show Preparation

• Pre‑show grooming timeline: Start a light trim 7–10 days before the show, finish with a final hand‑strip of the coat 24–48 hours prior.
• Ring presentation tips: Ensure the coat lies flat and glossy, ears are clean and set correctly, and the dog is well‑conditioned to stand still for the judge.

Common Health Issues

• Hip dysplasia – screening via OFA or PennHIP recommended for breeding stock.
• Patellar luxation – especially Grade II or III, monitor for lameness.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – DNA testing available; responsible breeders should test.
• Hereditary cataracts – ophthalmic examination recommended by 2 years of age.
• Ear infections – due to long, floppy ears; regular cleaning required.

General Care

• Exercise requirements: Consistent, high‑energy activity; lack of exercise can lead to obesity and behavioral issues.
• Nutritional needs: High‑quality protein diet appropriate for medium‑size active dogs; maintain body condition score 4–5/9.
• Lifespan: Typically 12–14 years with proper care, regular veterinary check‑ups and health screening.