The Field Spaniel is not only the oldest among the land spaniel breeds, but also one of the rarest. This originally bred hunting dog impresses not just with its noble and attractive appearance but also with its sensitive, friendly, and child-loving nature.
Energetic Athlete with a Sensitive Character
Like all spaniel breeds, the Field Spaniel is an extremely gentle and people-oriented dog. It constantly seeks close contact with its family and, despite its innate hunting instincts, never strays too far from them. It gets along excellently with children, playing the role of a good-natured and tireless playmate.
Although generally quieter and less lively than its popular relative, the Cocker Spaniel, its enthusiasm knows no bounds when fetching balls and sticks for the family’s children. Out in nature, it displays the temperament of an athlete, being not only exceptionally enduring but also very robust. Playing, exploring and frolicking in any weather brings it immense joy.
Affectionate, Yet Independent
At home, this medium-sized breed with the keen sense of smell is a pleasantly calm and adaptable companion. While the Field Spaniel is affectionate and playful like all spaniels, it does not cling to its owner’s side constantly. It has retained a degree of independence, enjoying tasks it can complete occasionally on its own, even as a family dog.
Its independence is also evident in its interactions with strangers. Some Field Spaniels may initially be very reserved, preferring to choose whether to engage with new visitors themselves. Those who earn the trust of this intelligent and sensitive dog will surely hold the friendly and straightforward companion dear to their heart.
Raising and Keeping as a Family Dog
Its good-natured, tolerant, and child-friendly disposition makes the Field Spaniel an ideal family dog despite its hunting background. Its hunting instinct usually only surfaces when specifically encouraged, so this trait generally causes no problems in everyday life.
Displays of dominance towards other dogs are also foreign to this balanced breed. It usually gets along well with other dogs and cats after a usual adjustment period. Even novice dog owners will likely find much delight in the Field Spaniel. These dogs are known not only for their friendliness but also for being exceptionally teachable. Training is relatively straightforward, but like all dogs, the Field Spaniel needs consistent and loving guidance, establishing clear boundaries without hurting its sensitive nature.
Noble Appearance
The Field Spaniel captivates its admirers not only with its lively, industrious, and charming character but also with its highly noble appearance. Its long, silky coat and the elongated, well-shaped head, which has remained unchanged despite numerous fashionable breeding attempts, convey an aristocratic impression. The exaggeratedly long back and the short, sturdy limbs, which breeders aimed for at the end of the 19th century, have thankfully been balanced. Today, the Field Spaniel is a very robust and well-proportioned dog without physical exaggerations.
Charming Dachshund-like Expression
The long, fine hair comes in black, brown or roan with tan markings. Brown and black dogs may have white or roan spots on the chest. However, according to the breed standard, solid-coloured dogs without markings are not accepted. The almond-shaped, alert eyes are usually dark brown, exhibiting the same endearing “dachshund look” as found in their close relatives, the Cocker Spaniels.
With a shoulder height of about 46 cm and a weight ranging from 16 to 25 kg, Field Spaniels are classified as medium-sized dogs.
History of Spaniel Breeds
The resemblance to the Cocker Spaniel is no coincidence, as both spaniel breeds share a common origin. In the 19th century, all spaniel breeds in Great Britain were classified only as either land or water spaniels. At that time, the so-called Field Spaniels (Landspaniels) included Springer Spaniels, Cocker Spaniels, Sussex Spaniels, as well as today’s Field Spaniels. By the end of that century, the British were crossbreeding the different spaniel breeds. For instance, the ancestor of today’s Cocker Spaniel is said to have had a Field Spaniel as its mother.
Fashionable Exaggerations
Only in the late 19th century did distinctions between the various spaniel varieties begin. The Field Spaniel is considered the first clearly defined breed type in these efforts, hence being one of the oldest among the land spaniels. By 1892, the Field Spaniel, previously valued as a good hunting dog for rough terrain, was recognised as a show dog. From that point on, the breed was repeatedly modified through crossbreeding.
Irish Setter blood was introduced for longer legs, while Basset Hounds were used to achieve a range of attractive colours and to shorten the legs. The short, sturdy legs and the excessively long back led the Field Spaniel to lose some of its hunting qualities.
Many Times on the Brink of Extinction
These fashionable exaggerations did not result in increased demand for the breed. On the contrary, the Field Spaniel fell increasingly into obscurity during the 20th century. It could not compete with the booming popularity of the Cocker Spaniel and thus faced extinction several times. The establishment of the English “Field Spaniel Society” in 1923, dedicated to the breed’s preservation, did little to change this initially.
Dedicated breeders managed to maintain a certain population of Field Spaniels, saving the breed from extinction even through the chaos of World War II. The Field Spaniel was finally recognised as a distinct breed by the FCI in 1954. Attempts to revive breeding in the 1960s through crossbreeding with English Cocker and Springer Spaniels saw some success. However, the English Kennel Club continued to register fewer specimens up until the 1990s.
Today, the Field Spaniel population seems to have somewhat recovered, though it remains a rare breed. There are still very few breed clubs worldwide solely dedicated to the Field Spaniel.
Breeding and Purchasing a Field Spaniel
Those considering buying a Field Spaniel will need time to find a breeder of this rare breed. Expect long travel distances, perhaps to neighbouring countries, and likely extended wait times for the next litter due to the breed’s rarity. However, anyone patient enough will be rewarded with a wonderfully cooperative dog that will bring both joy and activity into your everyday life.
Caution with Discount Puppies
Be cautious of dubious offers online or in newspapers. Though the prospect of an adorable puppy available immediately and at a bargain price might be tempting, such deals likely do not involve a dog from a reputable, FCI-certified breeder. These puppies are often prone to health issues or behavioural problems. Therefore, it is best to contact a recognised spaniel breed club, which can refer you to reputable breeders.
Even purebred dogs from reputable breeders are not entirely immune to canine diseases. However, the risk of hereditary conditions such as hip dysplasia (HD), eye diseases, or other typical genetic disorders is significantly lower in dogs from reputable breeders. Comprehensive health screenings of the parents and close relatives and excluding positively tested animals from breeding have considerably reduced the number of affected dogs.
Field Spaniels are considered very robust today, and compared to other spaniel breeds, the risk of breed-related diseases is low, apart from a few cases of HD.
The Right Spaniel Nutrition
The faithful, pleading look with which many spaniels beg for food is heart-wrenching. However, even if your spaniel seems to be constantly hungry, you mustn’t give in to this begging. An adult Field Spaniel should manage with approx. 200 to 250 g of meat per day. The meat should account for about one to two-thirds of its total food and can be supplemented with rice or pasta, flakes, and vegetables. Spaniels are generally good at utilising food and are not overly picky eaters. Still, you should ensure the food is of good quality. The form of the food is less critical than many believe. Whether you feed your dog homemade meals or industrially produced commercial food, as long as you pay attention to a few essential criteria, both can be healthy and nutritious.
What to Look for in Food
Firstly, you should understand your dog’s nutritional needs, which depend not just on its age and weight but also its activity level. A very active spaniel, spending much time hunting or at dog sports, has, for example, a higher energy requirement than one kept solely as a family dog and content with walks and small fetch games.
Fresh raw meat has a very high protein content, and thus, the so-called “BARF method” has gained many followers among dog owners. However, if you choose this option, you should be well-versed in the ingredients and exact nutrient compositions. But even if you prefer buying commercial food, it is recommended to scrutinise the ingredients. A high grain content or sweeteners like sugar, for instance, indicate lower food quality.
How to Care for a Field Spaniel
Proper care significantly impacts a dog’s health – this is well known. But how do you care for a Field Spaniel properly? Firstly, being a long-haired breed, its coat care is more intensive compared to short-haired dogs. The fine long hair of the Field Spaniel tends to mat and should be brushed daily. Another focus of care should be on the ears, as the typical long spaniel ears are prone to infections. Regular ear cleaning is thus absolutely necessary.
Ensuring Your Field Spaniel Feels Well All-Round
The uncomplicated and adaptable nature of the Field Spaniel should not obscure the fact that this breed was originally a hunting and working dog, remaining very active and diligent. Anyone considering bringing a Field Spaniel into their home should enjoy outdoor activities. The Field Spaniel is an excellent companion for long hikes, jogging sessions, and cycling tours. It delights in fetching sticks and balls and is not averse to a refreshing swim in a lake or stream. Dog sports like dummy work, obedience, agility, or mantrailing are also highly suitable to keep the lively and intelligent Field Spaniel physically and mentally engaged.
Plenty of Outdoor Activity
Those who provide their dog with enough opportunities to move and run freely will find the Field Spaniel to be a calm and adaptable housemate. A large house in the countryside is not necessarily required to keep a Field Spaniel happy. It can also be comfortable in a city apartment, provided it gets plenty of time outdoors. The Field Spaniel is still well-suited for hunting tasks, thanks to its good scenting ability, endurance, and good basic obedience. This modern family dog can be a talented hunting companion that typically hunts only when prompted by its owner.
