AKC Sporting Group
History
The Field Spaniel breed was almost ruined by poor selection practices during the late 1800s, when breeders greatly exaggerated the dog’s length and weight. By the 1920s, breeders had returned to moderation; however, the breed has remained rare to this day. In fact, it was virtually extinct in America from the early 1900s to the 1960s, when it was reintroduced. The Field Spaniel is a fine bird dog, with a very mild disposition. Though he makes a wonderful family companion, the Field Spaniel is very rare in the United States due to the great popularity of the Cocker and Springer Spaniels.
Description
The Field Spaniel is a moderately sized spaniel, slightly longer in body than the Cocker. The length to height ratio is approximately 7:6, with a level topline. The ears are long, wide, and pendant, and when pulled forward, reach to the end of the muzzle. The nose is large, with open nostrils. The almond-shaped eyes are either hazel or chestnut brown with a serious, gentle, and noble expression. The tail is docked, and naturally has a downward orientation. The silky coat is generally a solid color, either liver or black. The legs, chest, ears, tail, and undersides are abundantly feathered. Bicolor dogs must be roaned or ticked in white areas. Tan markings are allowed in the typical locations for tan-pointed dogs. A little bit of white in the chest area is permitted.
Key Facts
- Height: 17 to 19 in. (male); 16 to 18 in. (female)
- Size: Medium
- Weight: 35 to 50 lbs.
- Availability: Very difficult to find
- Talents: Hunting, tracking, retrieving, and watchdog
Notes
Likes to roam. Don’t overfeed. Good with other animals. Beware of hip dysplasia. Buy only from stock with OFA, PennHIP, or another national hip-dysplasia clearance. Prone to ear infections.
Personality
Very mild mannered, sweet, and affectionate. Smart, playful, and fun-loving. Active and vigorous. Very friendly. Socialize well when young to avoid excessive timidity. Loves people.
Behavior
- Children: Excellent with children
- Friendliness: Loves everyone
- Trainability: Easy to train
- Independence: Moderately dependent on people
- Dominance: Low
- Other Pets: Generally good with other pets
- Combativeness: Not generally dog-aggressive
- Noise: Average barker
- Indoors: Moderately active indoors
- Owner: Good for novice owners
Care
- Grooming: A little grooming needed
- Trimming and Stripping: Skilled trimming or stripping needed
- Coat: Feathered coat
- Shedding: Average shedder
- Docking: The tail is customarily docked
- Exercise: Needs lots of exercise
- Jogging: An excellent jogging companion
- Apartments: Not recommended for apartments
- Outdoor Space: Best with a large yard
- Climate: Prefers cool climates
- Longevity: Average (10 to 12 years)
Useful Links
AKC® Field Spaniel Breed Standard
http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/FieldSpaniel.pdf
Field Spaniel Breed Club
Search for a Breeder
akc.org/classified/search/landing_breed.cfm
Rescue Organizations
akc.org/dog-breeds/rescue-network/contacts/
