Field Spaniel

Field Spaniels are of similar origin to the Cocker, and it was not until 1892 that they were categorized as separate breeds.

Afterwards the Cocker Spaniel improved dramatically and the Field Spaniel did not, becoming, in fact, extremely long-bodied and shortlegged. However, the Field Spaniel Society was reformed in the United Kingdom in 1948 and - thanks to tremendous work and enthusiasm - a standard type has evolved that is breeding true.

The breed is little known, although recognized, in the United States. The passing of the Field Spaniel would be a tragedy, as it is an extremely docile animal, excellent in the field and a fine house-pet. It is intelligent and also has a very steady temperament.

Origin and history

The history of the Field Spaniel runs parallel with that of the the Cocker, and until the breeds were separated in 1892 they were shown as Field Spaniels under and over 251b (11.3kg). The breed is recognized in the United States but there are few registrations.

Field Spaniel Puppies

Good points

Sensible
Intelligent
Excellent in the field
Affectionate
Docile temperament

Take heed

No drawbacks known

Size

Weight: about 35-50Ib(15.9-22.7kg). Height: about 18in (46cm) to the shoulder.

Exercise

It would be a great pity to keep a Field Spaniel in an apartment or a city environment where it would not get the lengthy walks and runs that it needs and deserves.

Field Spaniel Information

The Field Spaniel is a willing and tireless worker Its steady temperament makes it a fine housepet as well.

General appearance

A wellbalanced, noble sporting dog; built for activity and endurance; a combination of beauty and utility; unusualy docile.

Colour

The Field Spaniel should be a self-coloured dog in black, liver, golden liver, mahogany red, roan or anyone of these colours with tan over the eyes and on the cheeks, feet and pasterns. Other colours, such as black and white, liver and white, red or orange and white, although they do not debar a dog, are a fault.

Head and skull

The head should be as characteristic as that of the English Bulldog or the Bloodhound; its very stamp and countenance should at once convey the impression of high breeding, character and nobility.

Skull should be well developed with a distinct occipital protuberance that gives the character alluded to; not too wide across the muzzle, long and lean, neither snipy nor squarely cut; and in profile curving gradually from nose to throat; lean beneath the eyes, as a thickness here gives coarseness to the whole head.

The great length of muzzle gives surface for the free development of the olfactory nerve, and thus secures the highest possible scenting powers. Nose should be well developed with open nostrils.

Tail

Well set on and carried low, if possible below the level of the back, in a straight line or with a slight downward inclination, never elevated above the back, and in action always kept low; nicely fringed with wavy feather of silky texture.

Feet

Not too small; round with short, soft hair between the toes; good, strong pads.

Field Spaniel Feeding & Grooming

Grooming

Regular brushing and combing will suffice, but take care that the coat does not become tangled or matted and that nothing becomes lodged between the toes.

Feeding

Recommended would be 13-200z (369-587g) of a branded, meaty product with biscuit added in equal part by volume, or 13-14cupfuls of a dry complete diet, mixed In the proportion of 1 cup of feed to 1/2 cup of hot or cold water.