Field Spaniel
🧠 Temperament & character
The Field Spaniel is calm, sensitive and very affectionate, while being more independent than the lively Cocker. He forms a close bond with his family and is loyally devoted to them. Towards strangers he can be reserved at first, but warms up given good socialisation. He reacts sensitively and needs a patient, friendly hand rather than harshness.
📜 Origin & history
The Field Spaniel emerged in the 19th century in England from the same roots as the Cocker and other land spaniels. For a time he was bred for exaggeratedly long, low body shapes, which harmed his health and almost ruined the breed. Dedicated breeders then reshaped him back into a functional, balanced hunting and companion dog. He has remained rare to this day and is one of the vulnerable native breeds in Great Britain.
✂️ Grooming, care & training
The Field Spaniel's silky, medium-length coat with its feathering needs regular brushing and occasional trimming; the long drop ears must be checked and kept dry. He has a moderate to high need for exercise and enjoys walks, scent work and retrieving games. As a sensitive, willing-to-learn dog he is easy to handle with friendly training. Close involvement in everyday life is especially important to him.
🩺 Health
The Field Spaniel usually reaches an age of around 12 to 14 years and is considered comparatively healthy. Hip and elbow dysplasia, hereditary eye diseases such as PRA and cataract, ear infections favoured by the drop ears, and hypothyroidism can occur. As the gene pool is small, careful breeding selection and joint and eye examinations are especially important.
🏡 Who is this breed right for?
The Field Spaniel is a good match for families and quieter, active people who value a sensitive, affectionate dog and give him plenty of closeness. He is also suitable for sensitive first-time owners and can live in an apartment given enough exercise. Important are patient training, daily occupation and close family contact. Because of his rarity, it often takes patience and research to find a reputable breeder.