Field Spaniel breed guide

Field Spaniels are sweet, sensitive souls with just enough independence to make life interesting. AKC calls them intelligent problem-solvers that can excel at any game when properly motivated.

These thinking dogs do best with clear communication and reward and minimal correction. They need early socialization and a family sensitive to their needs.

Field Spaniels live 12 to 13 years. AKC says breeders are urged to follow recommended testing and to consider orthopedics, thyroid, eyes, cardiac and late-onset seizures when planning matings.

The lovely single coat is one of the breed's most attractive features but needs regular care: weekly brushing and combing keep it shiny and cut shedding. Field Spaniels may need minimal trimming about the head and feet and are not to be body clipped like some other spaniels.

An active sporting breed with an energetic spirit, the Field does best with regular exercise and mental stimulation. It suits many canine sports and enjoys brisk activity and downtime at home with the family.

Well into the 1800s the several British spaniels used for flushing gamebirds were organized by size and job and not by breed. With the advent of dog shows in England, setting definite types mattered and a spaniel born of Cocker, English Springer and Sussex crosses was designated the Field Spaniel.

Early Fields were an immediate hit in the show ring and capable hunters and the success in the ring encouraged breeders to produce a showy Field Spaniel.