Description: Field Spaniel
The Field Spaniel is a charming and affectionate breed, originally developed in England for working in the field as a hunting dog. Known for their intelligence, versatility, and gentle temperament, Field Spaniels are slightly longer than they are tall and are easily recognized by their glossy, wavy coat and soulful eyes. They thrive as family companions due to their calm, loving nature, and get along well with children and other pets when properly socialized. The breed is energetic but not hyperactive, enjoying both outdoor adventures and relaxed time with their people. Field Spaniels are not as common as some other spaniel breeds, making them somewhat of a hidden gem for those seeking a devoted and gentle canine. They respond well to positive reinforcement training and need regular exercise to keep both their mind and body healthy. Their medium-length coat requires routine brushing to maintain its beautiful shine, but grooming demands are moderate.
Field Spaniel ratings
Properties
The Field Spaniel is a medium-sized sporting dog breed that originated in England in the 19th century. Developed specifically for fieldwork, this breed is renowned for its versatility as a gundog and its even temperament. Field Spaniels typically stand 17 to 18 inches tall at the shoulder, with a weight ranging from 35 to 50 pounds. Their appearance is characterized by a long, lean head, almond-shaped dark eyes, and long, low-set, pendant ears. The coat of the Field Spaniel is one of its most distinctive features—fine and glossy, yet dense and weather-resistant. The coat is moderately long and can be either straight or slightly wavy, typically in solid colors such as black, liver, or roan, sometimes with tan markings.
Originally bred for efficient work in the field, the Field Spaniel is highly valued for its stamina, persistence, and gentle mouth, which allows it to retrieve game without damage. These dogs have a balanced and moderate structure, giving them an easy, ground-covering stride in the field. While their sporting background is clear, Field Spaniels are also noted for their affectionate and docile nature, making them fine companions in family settings. They are generally good with children, sociable with other dogs, and typically exhibit a gentle disposition, though they may be reserved with strangers.
Field Spaniels require regular exercise and mental stimulation, thriving best with active owners who can engage them in outdoor activities such as hiking, running, or hunting. Grooming needs are moderate; their feathered coat requires weekly brushing to prevent matting, especially around the ears, chest, and legs. Field Spaniels are considered intelligent and eager to please, making them responsive to consistent, positive training methods. However, they can be sensitive to harsh discipline, so gentle guidance works best.
This breed has a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years and is generally healthy, though like all purebreds, it can be prone to certain hereditary conditions such as ear infections, thyroid issues, and hip dysplasia. Due to their rarity, Field Spaniels are less commonly seen at dog parks compared to other sporting breeds, but their devoted, calm, and playful natures make them rewarding companions for those who appreciate their unique combination of field-dog prowess and family-friendly temperament.
Appearance
The Field Spaniel is a medium-sized sporting dog breed admired for its noble and classic spaniel appearance. With a moderate build that is slightly longer than tall, the Field Spaniel exhibits an elegant yet athletic silhouette, making it suitable for both work in the field and companionship in the home. One of the breed's most distinguishing features is its long, well-feathered ears, which hang close to the cheeks and are delicately fringed with silky hair. The head is well-proportioned, displaying a gentle expression highlighted by almond-shaped, dark, expressive eyes that radiate warmth and intelligence. The skull is broad but not coarse, with a moderate stop and a long, square-shaped muzzle that offers a balanced, refined look.
Field Spaniels have a single-layered coat that is of moderate length, silky, and smooth to the touch. The coat flows gracefully along the body and is more abundant on the chest, underside, legs, and tail, forming attractive feathering without appearing overly profuse. Colorwise, Field Spaniels are seen predominantly in solid black, liver, or roan shades, sometimes with minor white markings on the chest or throat. Some individuals may have tan points on specified areas. The glossy coat resists harsh weather and protects the dog in dense undergrowth, aiding its original function as a field and flushing spaniel.
The body of the Field Spaniel is sturdy and slightly elongated, with a deep chest and well-sprung ribs that reach well back. The topline is level and flows smoothly into a medium-length, well-feathered tail that is typically carried level with the back, reflecting the breed's alertness and readiness for work. The legs are straight and muscular, ending in compact, round feet with thick, well-cushioned pads, enabling the breed to traverse rough terrain with agility and endurance.
In movement, the Field Spaniel demonstrates effortless, long-reaching strides with good drive from the rear and excellent forward extension. Their balanced conformation and moderate angulation ensure both grace and stamina. Overall, the Field Spaniel’s appearance reflects a harmonious blend of beauty, strength, and functionality, embodying the classic charm and utility of Britain’s versatile sporting spaniels.
History
The Field Spaniel is a breed of gun dog that was developed in England in the late 19th century. It was originally bred for work as a hunting companion, specifically for flushing and retrieving game from dense cover. The history of the Field Spaniel is intertwined with that of other spaniels, particularly the English Cocker Spaniel and the English Springer Spaniel. In fact, for many years, these breeds were not clearly distinguished from each other.
During the mid-1800s, spaniels in England were categorized primarily by their weight, rather than by distinct breed. Dogs weighing less than 25 pounds were considered Cocker Spaniels, while those weighing more were referred to as Field Spaniels or Springer Spaniels. However, as time progressed, breeders became more interested in refining the different types and developing distinct breeds with specific traits.
The Field Spaniel, as recognized today, owes much of its development to a few determined breeders who sought to create a spaniel that was distinct in both appearance and function. Early breeders, such as Thomas Fletcher and Francis Burdett, worked to develop a dog that was slightly larger than the Cocker Spaniel, with a longer, low-set body, and an all-black or liver-colored coat. Unfortunately, the quest for a unique and striking appearance led to some negative consequences. In their attempts to exaggerate certain physical traits – such as length of body and darkness of coat – breeders created dogs with structural weaknesses and less practical capabilities in the field. These exaggerated dogs lost popularity quickly as they were less capable in their original hunting roles.
By the early 20th century, the Field Spaniel was nearly extinct, but dedicated breeders such as Mortimer Smith undertook careful efforts to restore the breed’s function and health. They crossed Field Spaniels with Springer Spaniels and Cocker Spaniels to improve their utility, temperament, and physical soundness, gradually re-establishing the Field Spaniel as a well-balanced and effective gun dog.
Today, the Field Spaniel retains many of its original qualities as a sporting and companion animal. With a gentle, intelligent, and loyal disposition, the breed is valued for its versatility as both a hunting dog and a family member. Though it remains a relatively rare breed, the Field Spaniel’s unique history as a selectively crafted English spaniel is celebrated by enthusiasts and breeders worldwide.