Field Spaniel

Characteristics

The Field Spaniel is an elegant, medium-sized dog with a harmonious build and a slightly elongated profile. Its dense, silky coat lies flat against the body and often displays a slight wave. Particularly striking are the long, low-set ears covered with wavy fur, giving the dog a gentle expression. The eyes radiate intelligence and friendliness, while the well-muscled legs and balanced frame underscore its endurance and agility. The coat typically appears in rich tones, often in various shades of brown or with subtle markings.

Information

The Field Spaniel is a well-balanced and friendly dog with a gentle temperament. It stands out for its devoted and people-oriented nature, building a close bond with its family. Despite its calm and composed demeanor, it possesses a strong work drive and is known as an intelligent, eager-to-learn companion. Its friendly temperament makes it both a pleasant family dog and a reliable hunting and retrieving dog. It is sensitive and responds particularly well to empathetic training. In unfamiliar situations, it can sometimes appear reserved, but with proper socialization, it develops into an open-minded and confident dog.

Nutrition

The Field Spaniel is an active and intelligent dog that requires a balanced and species-appropriate diet to stay healthy and vital. High-quality wet food is particularly suitable, as it has a high meat content and its natural moisture contributes to adequate hydration. This can support digestion and ease the burden on the kidneys. A combination of high-quality muscle meat, organ meats, and healthy carbohydrate sources like vegetables ensures the dog receives all essential nutrients. Artificial additives and low-quality fillers should be avoided to prevent potential digestive issues. Fresh ingredients such as fruits or healthy oils can occasionally supplement the food and contribute to skin and coat health.

Care

The Field Spaniel is an active and intelligent breed that needs both physical and mental stimulation. It feels most comfortable in a home with plenty of space and access to nature, where it can satisfy its need for exercise. Daily walks, extended play sessions, and focused training are essential to keep it balanced. Thanks to its friendly nature, it is well-suited for families, provided it receives enough attention and affection. Its medium-length, silky coat should be brushed regularly to prevent matting and maintain coat health. After outdoor walks, it is advisable to check the coat for dirt and small plant debris. The long ears also require special care, as they can be prone to dirt buildup and infections. A consistent but loving approach to training is important, as the Field Spaniel is sensitive to harsh methods. With the right care and sufficient activity, it develops into a loyal and well-balanced companion.

Accessories

The Field Spaniel is an enduring and work-oriented companion that appreciates both mental and physical challenges. To meet the needs of this active dog, robust accessories are essential. A well-fitting harness provides the necessary freedom of movement while preventing slipping during long walks or sporting activities. For coat care, which should be done regularly due to its medium-length, wavy coat, a high-quality brush and comb are useful for preventing matting. Since the Field Spaniel is intelligent and eager to learn, interactive toys and retrieving equipment are particularly well-suited for mental stimulation. A waterproof pad for the resting area can also be beneficial, as this breed has a certain fondness for water and often comes home with damp fur after extensive outdoor play.

History

The Field Spaniel originally comes from England and was bred in the 19th century as a versatile hunting dog. Its development traces back to various spaniel types that were selectively crossed to create an enduring and capable companion for fieldwork. While initially valued primarily by hunters, a phase of overbreeding caused the breed to temporarily lose popularity. Through careful breeding efforts, however, the Field Spaniel was restored to a robust, work-oriented dog with a balanced temperament. Today it is valued both as a hunting and family dog, though it remains relatively rare compared to other spaniel breeds.

Health

The Field Spaniel is a robust and resilient breed that can reach a good old age with proper care. Nevertheless, there are some health aspects that should be considered. Due to its size and sturdy build, the Field Spaniel can be prone to joint problems, particularly in the hip and elbow areas. Responsible breeders therefore pay careful attention to selecting parent animals to minimize the risk of hereditary conditions. The skin can also be sensitive, which is why regular check-ups and appropriate care are important. Additionally, a balanced diet and sufficient exercise should be maintained to avoid excess weight, which could place additional strain on the joints. Regular veterinary examinations help detect potential health issues early and maintain the dog's long-term well-being.

Trainability

The Field Spaniel is an enduring and lively companion that needs both mental and physical engagement. Its moderate energy level makes it a pleasant family dog that enjoys being active without being overly demanding. It particularly enjoys working with its human, making it well-suited for various dog sports or retrieving games. Its intelligence and eagerness to please facilitate training, though it does require empathetic and consistent guidance. With positive reinforcement and varied tasks, the Field Spaniel learns quickly and reliably, making it a versatile partner in different areas of life.