The Field Spaniel

Field Spaniel

Country of Origin: Great Britain

History: The field spaniel and the cocker spaniel developed side by side until the twentieth century, with fields being the larger in the litter. Poor breeding affected the breed adversely for many years, until fanciers refocused on maintaining effectiveness in the field. The breed was first imported to the U.S. in the late nineteenth century but never became popular. It remains rare.

Physical Description: This is a sturdy, medium size dog that is longer that it is tall. The head is rectangular in shape with long, wide drop ears and almond-shaped brown eyes. There is a docked or natural tail. The glossy single coat has feathering on the chest, belly, back of legs, and underside of the tail. It may be black, liver, golden liver, roan, with or without tan points. A small amount of white on the chest and throat is allowed.

Height: 17 to 18 inches

Weight: 35 to 50 pounds

Temperament: The field spaniel is a lively, fun-loving, and vocal dog. It loves the water.

Activity Level: Moderate to high

Best Owner: It does best with an active owner in a rural or suburban home.

Special Needs: Exercise, job or activity

Possible Health Concerns: Hip dysplasia, ectropion, entropion, PRA, subaortic stenosis, thyroid disease