Description:

The Field Spaniel dog breed is one canine that seems to share a lot of its early history with a breed of similar characteristics, namely the English Cocker Spaniel. To begin with the only distinctive difference was the size of these dogs. The Field Spaniel breed was the larger of the two, due to its association with the Land Spaniels that weighed in at 25lbs heavier. The larger of the Spaniel breeds include the English Water Spaniel, Cocker Spaniel, and Sussex spaniel.

In the late 1800's, once the Field Spaniel dogs were recognized as a separate breed, serious breeding took place – resulting in heavier bones, shorter legs, and a longer body. These breeding techniques resulted in the Field Spaniel loosing its hunting abilities – which almost lead to the breed's extinction.

In order to re-create the characteristics (including the hunting ability) of the original breed, the Field Spaniel was breed with the English springer spaniel. This has the desired result.

Although the Field Spaniel breed was introduced to the U.S. in the 1800's – it wasn't until the late 1960 that this breed started to gain popularity. Even so, the dog is still one of the rarest breeds today.

Field Spaniel Temperament:

This breed is highly energetic and playful. An extremely friendly dog for the family, that gets on equally well other household pets. Easy to instruct when it comes to obedience training and are able to make fine watchdogs.

Care:

Exercise for a Field Spaniel often consists of a few walks (brisk pace) on a daily basis. An active breed that enjoys to run. The Field spaniel prefers to live indoors with their family. In space permitted, being a roam is a secure yard is welcomed. The Spaniel needs a solid brush at least two or three time per week. The hair over the footpaths and ears ought to have a trim every two or so months.

Health Information:

The only health concerns of a major nature with Field Spaniel are Otitis Externa and Hypothyroidism. This breed should also be specifically tested for Heart murmurs, Eye Issues, Elbow and Hip Dysphasia, and Thyroid Problems.

Read More in: Sporting Dogs