Field Spaniel
The Field Spaniel has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.
Origin
The Field Spaniel was developed in the early 1800s in England. Originally, the Field Spaniel was intended to be a solid black hunting spaniel and was created using large, black Cocker Spaniels and some combination of the Irish Water Spaniel, Norfolk or English Springer Spaniel, and Basset Hound.
As the Field Spaniel continued to be bred, they became so long and low to the ground that they could no longer be used as gun dogs. As a result, the Field Spaniel was nearly extinct by 1900. A few dedicated breeders took it upon themselves to try and bring back the quality of the breed. Today, all Field Spaniels can be traced back to four foundation dogs from the 1950s and 1960s.
Size
The Field Spaniel weighs 35 to 50 pounds and measures 17 to 18 inches.
Grooming Needs
The Field Spaniel has a medium-length coat that can appear as straight or wavy. The Field Spaniel should be brushed once a week and bathed occasionally. If shown, the Field Spaniel will require a regular trim all over; otherwise they just need to have the hair between the pads of their feet and the hair inside their hairs trimmed.
Like all dogs, the Field Spaniel also needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Field Spaniel is sociable and even tempered.
Temperament
The Field Spaniel has a sense of humor and likes to have fun. The Field Spaniel is not overly hyper or rambunctious, but is curious about everything and wants to be involved in family activities. They have lots of affection for their family and love being with them. In general, the Field Spaniel is quite people oriented. When a new person comes around, the Field Spaniel is initially shy, but quickly warms up to them.
Training Needs
The Field Spaniel is intelligent and a quick learner. However, the Field Spaniel is not naturally obedient and requires plenty of patience and consistency to train. They also respond well to praise and other positive reinforcement.
Activity Level
The Field Spaniel is a natural hunter and loves the outdoors. Energetic and athletic, the Field Spaniel makes a terrific hunting companion, but can also be a great companion for jogging, biking, swimming and hiking. At the very least, the Field Spaniel should have a long daily walk as well as plenty of time outside in a secure area to run around.
