Field spaniel

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog field spaniel!

Here, you will find all the useful information about field spaniel. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.

Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.

Overall description of the breed

The Field Spaniel is a breed of game retriever, which has its origins deep in the United Kingdom, just like the Cocker Spaniel with which it shares many physical similarities. This strong resemblance was noticed as early as the beginning of the 20th century, and some experienced breeders found it very difficult to distinguish between them, and could only distinguish them by their weight.

The breed was progressively abandoned in favour of other more successful hunting dogs, but not only, the considerable success of the Cocker Spaniel accelerated the fall in the number of Field Spaniel births. In fact, the breed was on the verge of extinction in the 1950s, but a handful of enthusiasts revived it, although it is still not widely distributed outside its native land. The International Cynological Federation officially recognized the breed on December 27, 1954, and the last update of the official standard in force was published on July 27, 2021.

The resemblance to the Cocker Spaniel is uncanny. The Field Spaniel has all the characteristics of the perfect small hunting dog, being well built, balanced and elegantly proportioned. Enduring and willing, he never backs down in the face of effort, longer than he is tall, his body fits into a rectangle, with a clean line of back, however, we notice a slight curve at the level of the loins, his chest is ample and deep, his limbs are bony, resistant and powerful.

The head is massive and homogeneous, supported by a broad neck, a long muzzle and well marked jaws. The Field Spaniel's coat is long, silky, lying flat on its body, the colours permitted by the breed standard are black, black and fawn, blue, liver or roan. A variation of the tan marking is permitted, with fringes on the lower body and the back of the legs.

The Field Spaniel's affectionate temperament is matched only by its courage and determination at work, and it is very attached to its owner and his family. Jovial by nature, they will enjoy sharing playtime with their social group, especially if their activities are related to tracking or searching for objects.

Intelligent and docile, he is a trustworthy partner, an efficient teammate, he will only ask for one thing, to carry out the missions that you will entrust to him! He is a dynamic companion, who needs to exercise daily to feel good in his paws, if his expectations are met, he will know how to stay calm inside and will impress you with his serenity. Close to their master and hard-working, Field Spaniels have all the qualities of an ideal life companion.

Adult: The Field Spaniel will weigh 40 to 55 lbs and stand approximately 17.7" tall at the withers.

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Origins

The Field Spaniel is a dog breed originating from Great Britain. Resulting from the crossing of different types of Cocker Spaniels and Sussex Spaniels in the 19th century, the Field Spaniel was developed to create a versatile hunting dog, capable of working both on land and in water. Initially, it was mainly used to flush and retrieve game, particularly in challenging terrain such as marshes. Its robustness and endurance make it an excellent hunting companion, appreciated for its ability to work in various conditions.

History

The history of the Field Spaniel is marked by highs and lows. In the 1800s, it was very popular among British hunters. However, excessive crossbreeding with other breeds almost led to its disappearance in the early 20th century. Conservation efforts have helped stabilize the breed and restore its original characteristics. Today, although less common than other spaniels, the Field Spaniel is appreciated for its qualities as a companion and working dog. Its resurgence was made possible thanks to the commitment of breed enthusiasts who have preserved its distinctive traits.

Standard

The standard of the Field Spaniel describes a dog of medium size, well-proportioned and harmonious. The height at the withers varies between 43 and 46 cm for a weight ranging from 18 to 25 kg. Its coat is dense and water resistant, of solid color (black, liver, or roan). The ears are long and drooping, covered with silky hair. The eyes are large and expressive, hazel to dark brown in color. The body is solid, with a deep chest and well-muscled limbs. The Field Spaniel should give the impression of strength and agility.

Physical characteristics

The Field Spaniel is a dog with an elegant and athletic stature. It has a well-developed musculature and a long body, with a broad and deep chest that gives it great endurance. Its tail, traditionally docked but now often left natural, is carried low and moves briskly. The coat is smooth and glossy, sometimes wavy, providing protection against the weather. Its legs are strong, with well-arched feet that allow it to move easily on different types of terrain.

Character

The Field Spaniel is known for its gentle and affectionate nature. It is an intelligent and sensitive dog, who forms strong bonds with its family. It is sociable and loves being surrounded by loved ones. Loyal and devoted, it can sometimes be reserved towards strangers, but it is never aggressive. Its hunting instinct remains present, requiring early socialization. As a working dog, it is energetic and needs mental and physical stimulation to avoid boredom and destructive behaviors.

Life expectancy

The Field Spaniel has an average life expectancy of 12 to 14 years. This longevity is typical for dogs of its size and build. To optimize its health and quality of life, it is essential to provide it with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper veterinary care. Genetic predispositions to certain diseases, such as hip dysplasia or eye problems, require particular vigilance. Regular medical monitoring allows for early detection and treatment of any potential health issues.

Exercise and activity needs

The Field Spaniel is an active dog that needs a lot of exercise to be happy and healthy. A daily walk of at least one hour, accompanied by interactive games and training sessions, is essential to meet his needs. He particularly enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, running, and retrieving games. His curious nature and hunting instinct make him love exploring new environments. Stimulating activities, both physical and mental, are crucial to avoid boredom.

Recommended diet

The diet of the Field Spaniel must be balanced and adapted to its level of activity, age, and health condition. High-quality food, rich in proteins, is recommended to maintain its muscle mass and energy. Meals should be divided into two or three portions per day to prevent the risk of stomach torsion. Treats can be used in moderation, especially as rewards during training sessions. It is also important to monitor its weight and adjust its portions according to its physical activity.

Training and obedience

The education of the Field Spaniel should start at a young age to develop a well-balanced and obedient dog. Its intelligence and desire to please make it a receptive learner to positive reinforcement methods. Training sessions should be short and varied to maintain its interest. Socialization is also crucial to get it accustomed to different environments, people, and other animals. Obedience classes can be beneficial to strengthen the basics of education and promote a good cohabitation with the family.

Behavior with children

The Field Spaniel is generally very good with children. Its gentle and patient temperament makes it an excellent companion for young families. It is playful and enjoys participating in family activities. However, as with all dogs, it is important to supervise interactions between the dog and children, especially young ones, to avoid misunderstandings and rough gestures. Proper education of children on how to treat and respect the dog contributes to harmonious and safe relationships.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The Field Spaniel can peacefully coexist with other pets if properly socialized from a young age. Its hunting instinct may drive it to chase small animals, but gradual and controlled introductions can mitigate this behavior. With cats and other dogs, it can develop friendly relationships, especially if raised together. Initial supervision is recommended to ensure that interactions go smoothly and all animals get used to each other's presence.

Grooming needs

The Field Spaniel has a dense and silky coat that requires regular maintenance to stay in good condition. Weekly brushing helps prevent knots and remove dead hair. During shedding seasons, more frequent brushing may be necessary. Bathing can be done every two to three months or as needed. Ears should be monitored and cleaned regularly to prevent infections, and nails should be trimmed if they do not wear down naturally. Regular maintenance contributes to the health and appearance of the dog.

Health

The Field Spaniel is generally healthy, but like all breeds, it can be prone to certain hereditary conditions. Common health problems include hip dysplasia, eye disorders such as cataracts, and ear infections due to its long floppy ears. Regular veterinary care, routine check-ups, and a balanced diet help prevent and manage these issues. Genetic screening tests can also be performed to assess the risks of hereditary diseases.

Average price

The price of a Field Spaniel puppy generally ranges between 1,000 and 2,500 euros (or 1,100 and 2,700 dollars), depending on the breeder's reputation, bloodlines, and the quality of the breeding dogs. Recognized breeders and puppies intended for shows or breeding can reach higher prices. It is important to choose a responsible breeder who respects the breed standards and provides necessary health and well-being guarantees for the puppies. This initial cost often includes the first vaccinations and microchip.

Expenses

Annual expenses for a Field Spaniel can vary depending on several factors, but they generally range between 1,000 and 2,000 euros (or 1,100 and 2,200 dollars). This includes high-quality food expenses, routine veterinary care (vaccinations, deworming, health check-ups), pet insurance, grooming products, and accessories (leash, collar, toys). Additional fees may be added for training classes, special activities, and any unexpected medical treatments.

Name ideas

For a Field Spaniel, names reflecting its elegance, gentle nature, and energy are ideal. For example, "Shadow" for its ability to stay close to its master, "Belle" referring to its natural beauty, "Rusty" evoking its red fur, or "Hunter" recalling its hunting instinct. "Coco" may reflect its coat color, "Sage" for its intelligence, "Milo" meaning "soldier" in Latin, "Ruby" for its reddish-brown fur, "Luna" for its connection with nature, and "Max" for its majestic and imposing stature.

Legislation and regulation

The Field Spaniel is not subject to any specific bans in most countries. However, as with all dog breeds, it is important to comply with local regulations regarding pet ownership. This includes registering with local authorities, mandatory vaccinations, and adhering to responsible ownership rules. In France, for example, dogs must be identified with a microchip or tattoo and be registered in the national database for the identification of domestic carnivores.

Official recognition

The Field Spaniel is officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under number 123 in group 8 (retrievers, flushing dogs, water dogs).

Pedigrees

The pedigrees of Field Spaniels are available from breed clubs and national canine organizations such as the Kennel Club (KC) in the UK or the American Kennel Club (AKC) in the US. These pedigrees trace the lineage of the dogs over several generations, providing essential information about their ancestors, their compliance with breed standards, and their potential participation in competitions and shows. A certified pedigree is a guarantee of breed purity and can help assess the qualities and potential genetic predispositions of puppies.

Destination and usage

Originally, the Field Spaniel was developed to be an excellent hunting dog, specialized in flushing and retrieving game. Today, in addition to its hunting skills, it is appreciated as a companion dog for its affectionate and loyal nature. Its versatility also allows it to excel in activities such as agility, obedience, and beauty contests. Due to its balanced temperament and high intelligence, it can also be used as a therapy or working dog in certain situations.

Prohibitions

To date, there are no specific bans on the possession of Field Spaniels in any country. However, it is important to inquire about local regulations regarding dog ownership, which may vary depending on national or regional legislation. Some jurisdictions may have general restrictions on dogs of certain sizes or breeds considered dangerous, but the Field Spaniel is generally not affected by these laws due to its non-aggressive temperament.

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