Field Spaniel
Size
Giant
Life Expectancy
12-13 years
Trainability
★★★★★
Energy
★★★☆☆
About the Field Spaniel
The Field Spaniel is a medium-sized dog breed known for its elegant appearance, rich, lustrous coat, and friendly disposition. They typically weigh between 35 to 50 pounds and stand about 17 to 18 inches tall at the shoulder. This breed has a long, low body with a well-defined waist, long ears, and a gentle expression. Field Spaniels are highly versatile, excelling in various canine sports and activities, including hunting, agility, and obedience. They are known for their affectionate nature, loyalty, and intelligence, making them great family pets. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and to maintain its condition.
History
The Field Spaniel originated in the 19th century in England as a result of the breeding of several spaniel varieties, including the Cocker Spaniel and the Sussex Spaniel. Initially, they were bred as hunting dogs, specifically for flushing game birds from dense cover. Their versatility allowed them to be effective in both water and land hunting. However, they were overshadowed by other spaniel breeds, leading to a decline in their popularity. In the 20th century, efforts were made to revive the breed, focusing on restoring its original characteristics and working abilities. Today, the Field Spaniel is appreciated for its hunting prowess, companionship, and is recognized by various kennel clubs worldwide.
Temperament
- affectionate
- intelligent
- loyal
- energetic
- sociable
Breed Characteristics
Detailed Traits
Field Spaniels are excellent with children
Very social with other dogs
Highly trainable
Moderately energetic breed
Moderate barking tendency
Moderate shedding
Low grooming requirements
Field Spaniel Care Guide
Daily Care
- Brush their coat regularly to prevent matting and reduce shedding.
- Provide a balanced diet suitable for their age, size, and activity level.
- Ensure fresh water is available at all times.
- Regularly check and clean their ears to prevent infections.
- Maintain dental hygiene by brushing their teeth or providing dental chews.
Exercise Needs
- Require at least 60 minutes of exercise each day.
- Enjoy activities like walking, running, and playing fetch.
- Benefit from mental stimulation through training and interactive toys.
- Can participate in dog sports like agility or obedience.
Health Considerations
- Prone to ear infections due to their long ears.
- May be susceptible to hip dysplasia and other joint issues.
- Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for overall health.
- Watch for signs of obesity, as they can gain weight easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the temperament of a Field Spaniel?
Field Spaniels are known for their friendly, affectionate, and gentle nature. They are typically good with children and can be social with other pets, making them great family companions.
What are the care requirements for a Field Spaniel?
Field Spaniels require regular grooming due to their medium-length, wavy coat. They need daily exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated, along with a balanced diet and routine veterinary care.
What training challenges might I face with a Field Spaniel?
Field Spaniels are intelligent but can be somewhat independent, which may lead to challenges in training. Consistent, positive reinforcement methods work best, and early socialization is crucial to prevent stubbornness.
What health concerns are common in Field Spaniels?
Field Spaniels can be prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, ear infections, and eye problems such as cataracts. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help mitigate these risks.
Are Field Spaniels suitable as family pets?
Yes, Field Spaniels are well-suited as family pets. They are affectionate, loyal, and enjoy being part of family activities. Their friendly disposition makes them great companions for children and families.
Fun Facts About Field Spaniels
The Field Spaniel originated in England in the 19th century as a hunting dog, specifically bred to retrieve game from both land and water.
Unlike some of their spaniel relatives, Field Spaniels were bred for their versatility and endurance, making them excellent companions for hunters.
Field Spaniels are known for their distinctive long, and silky coat, which comes in various colors, including liver, black, and golden, often with tan markings.
They are one of the few breeds that have a slightly rounded head and a more elongated body, giving them a unique silhouette compared to other spaniels.
Field Spaniels have been recognized by various kennel clubs since the early 20th century, and they were once a popular choice for dog shows, showcasing their beauty and agility.
One notable achievement of the Field Spaniel was its recognition as a separate breed from the Cocker Spaniel and the Sussex Spaniel, which happened during the breed's development.
Field Spaniels are known for their gentle temperament and are often described as being particularly good with children, making them excellent family pets.
They have a playful nature and are known to be quite affectionate, often forming strong bonds with their owners and seeking out attention.
Field Spaniels are highly intelligent and require mental stimulation, often engaging in activities like agility training, obedience, and scent work to keep them happy and engaged.
Despite their hunting background, Field Spaniels can be quite laid-back at home, often enjoying lounging on the couch with their families after a good walk.
Diet and Nutrition
Field Spaniels require a balanced diet that is rich in high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's important to choose a dog food that meets the AAFCO standards for complete and balanced nutrition. Monitor their weight and adjust portions accordingly, as they can be prone to obesity.
Recommended Foods
- High-quality dry kibble formulated for medium-sized breeds
- Wet food containing real meat as the first ingredient
- Raw or cooked meats (chicken, turkey, beef) without additives
- Vegetables such as carrots and green beans as treats
- Fish oil supplements for omega-3 fatty acids
Foods to Avoid
- Chocolate
- Grapes and raisins
- Onions and garlic
- Avocado
- Macadamia nuts
- Xylitol (artificial sweetener)
- High-fat and heavily processed foods
Special Considerations
Field Spaniels can have sensitivities to certain grains and artificial additives. It's essential to monitor for any allergic reactions and consult with a veterinarian if any issues arise. Additionally, they may require adjustments in their diet as they age or if they become less active.
Training Guide
Field Spaniels require early socialization and obedience training. Start with basic commands like sit, stay, and come, using positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise. Consistency is key, and short, engaging training sessions work best.
Advanced Techniques
- Agility training to enhance physical and mental stimulation
- Scent work to utilize their natural hunting instincts
- Advanced obedience training for off-leash control
- Clicker training to improve precision in commands
- Trick training to keep them mentally engaged
Common Challenges
- Sustaining their attention during training sessions due to their playful nature
- Overcoming stubbornness if not properly motivated
- Managing their high energy levels, which may lead to distractions
- Dealing with their tendency to chase small animals if not properly trained
Grooming Guide
Field Spaniels have a medium-length, wavy coat that requires regular grooming to prevent mats and tangles. Their ears, feet, and tail should be given special attention, as these areas are prone to matting. Regular brushing, bathing, and ear cleaning are essential for their overall health and appearance.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Step 1: Brush the coat thoroughly to remove any tangles and loose hair, starting from the head and working towards the tail.
- Step 2: Check and clean the ears with a vet-approved ear cleaner to prevent infections.
- Step 3: Trim the hair around the paws and between the pads to keep them neat and reduce debris accumulation.
- Step 4: Bathe the dog using a mild dog shampoo, ensuring to rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
- Step 5: Dry the coat with a towel or blow dryer on a low setting, being cautious around the ears.
- Step 6: Check and trim the nails to a safe length, avoiding cutting too close to the quick.
- Step 7: Finish with a final brush to ensure the coat is smooth and free of any tangles.
Required Tools
- Slicker brush
- Comb
- Dog shampoo
- Towel or blow dryer
- Nail clippers or grinder
- Ear cleaner
- Scissors for trimming