Dog class - Sporting
Average height - 16 to 19 inches
Average weight - 35 to 40 pounds
Size - Medium
Coat - Long-flat or slightly wavy
Average life span - 12 to 14 years

This breed stands roughly 18 inches tall and will weigh between 35-40 pounds. Their coat has a silky texture with longer hair on the chest, stomach, ears and legs. Coat colors include black (solid), liver (solid), reddish mahogany or a speckled combination of a dark color and white. Their ears will hang down.

Field Spaniels were developed in the last half of the 19th century in England. When formal dog shows were started Spaniels under 25 pounds were classified as Cocker Spaniels, larger white & liver or black & white Spaniels were classified as English Springer Spaniels and finally dogs with solids colors and over 25 pounds remained Field Spaniel.

The American Spaniel Club first show Field Spaniels in the United States in the 1880's, when they were registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC). By the late 1920's the classification of Field Spaniel was no longer in the AKC registration books. The breed returned to the United States when three were imported from England in 1968.

The AKC recognized Field Spaniel Society of America was formed in 1978.

Field Spaniels are great to play with, especially since they like to carry stuff around in the their mouths. They also have a broad vocal range. They are a great dog for frequent walks and runs.

Field Spaniels are loving and active dogs who are eager to please. They are great to have around children and other animals.

They are great for people who want a good looking mid-sized dog that does not need a lot of grooming. They are also good for less experienced dog owners.

To have the best dog possible with this breed, young dogs should go through training and have experience in many non-threatening situations, meeting a variety of other animals and people.

Potential health problems include: hip dysplasia, eye (retinal) problems and ear infections. IMPORTANT - when puppies reach 3-4 months of age they will go through what is called ""collapsing front"". The front ankles and knees will weaken and the puppy will seem to flop about. The puppy will be strong again by six months of age. Some veterinarians unfamiliar with Field Spaniels may misdiagnose this as rickets. Another potential health problem is thyroid disease. It is not a life threatening condition and it does not need to effect the dog's quality of life. Symptoms may include: lethargy, weight gain and oily coat and/or scaly skin. Other occasional conditions are Sub-Aortic Stenosis (SAS) and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). If you are thinking of using your Field Spaniel for breeding you should have checked and declared clear by a veterinarian. When looking for a Field Spaniel you should be sure to request from the breeders regarding the temperament and health of the parents and any siblings. Obviously, the fewer problems in its relatives the fewer problems with your new puppy.

This breed will not make a good guard dog. Some behavior problems have included: excessive barking at noises, stealing food, and roaming. This breed is also known to snore. If not trained this bright and active dog may get bored and get into some mischief as a result.

The breed's drinking habits will often result in water spilled around their bowl. This and other traits may mean this is not the best choice for people who pride themselves on perfect houses.

Field Spaniels are a rare breed and it may be hard to find a breeder.

Further Field Spaniel Dog Resources

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