The Field Spaniel is a very friendly, lovable dog. She is very active and makes a great family pet. She really requires a properly fenced in enclosure for exercise. She is very intelligent and learns new tasks quickly. She generally gets along very well with children and other pets.

Approximate Adult Size

The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Field Spaniel is about 18 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and the female ranges about 17 inches to the withers. The average weight is 35 to 40 pounds, the heavier being the males.

Special Health Considerations

Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Field Spaniel is no exception. Be on the look out for canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), hypothyroidism (sluggish thyroid gland which can result in weight gain) and ear infections. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

Grooming

The Field Spaniel has moderately long, wavy or flat and thick fur which is repellent of water. She should be groomed once or twice a week and should visit a professional groomer every two months or so.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

Life Span

The Field Spaniel can live between 10 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

History

The Field Spaniel comes from England. They were part of the sporting spaniels who were split up into classes by weight. The Field Spaniel was the heavier breed, the Cocker Spaniel the lighter weight. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1894.

Some Registries