AKC Ranking: 124
Family: gundog, spaniel
Area of Origin: England
Date of Origin: 1800s
Original Function: bird flushing and retrieving
Today's Function: bird flushing and retrieving, spaniel field trials
Avg Size of male: Height: 18 Weight: 35-50
Avg Size of Female: Height: 17 Weight: 35-50
Other Name: none

History
The field spaniel shares its early history with the English cocker spaniel, the only difference between the two breeds initially being one of size. The field spaniel was composed of those land spaniels weighing over 25 pounds. These larger field spaniels were derived from the cocker, Sussex and English water spaniels and were initially required to be black. After becoming recognized as a separate breed in the late 1800s, the field spaniel succumbed to breeding for exaggeration, and the repeated infusion of Sussex spaniel blood resulted in dogs of excessive length, overly heavy bones and short legs. The breed lost its usefulness as a hunter, and although it enjoyed a short vogue in the early 1900s, it ultimately teetered on the brink of extinction. Crosses to English springer spaniels were made in an effort to re-create the original field spaniel. The crosses were successful, and the modern field spaniel is not only a handsome replica of its former self but also an able hunter. All modern field spaniels can be traced back to four field spaniels from the 1950s: Ronayne Regal, Gormac Teal, Colombina of Teffont and Elmbury Morwena of Rhiwlas. Despite the fact that field spaniels were being shown in America in the late 1800s, no champions were made up between 1916 and 1966; in fact, the breed was essentially extinct in America for much of that time. The breed was reintroduced into America in the late 1960s. The field spaniel remains among the rarest of breeds in America.

Temperament
The field spaniel is happiest when it has a job to do. Although independent in nature, it is devoted, sensitive and willing to please. Always cheerful and affectionate, it is an excellent family companion as long as it is given regular exercise. The field spaniel is especially known for its tractable nature. It is typical for a field spaniel to be somewhat reserved with strangers.

Upkeep
The field spaniel needs daily exercise, and even though it is happiest when given the chance to run and explore, its needs can be met with a long walk on leash. It can live outside in temperate climates if given warm shelter, but it does best when allowed to divide its time between house and yard. It thrives on human companionship and should not be deprived of its family. Its coat needs brushing and combing once or twice weekly. Straggling hairs should be scissored every few months, and some clipping and thinning is needed for show dogs. The ears should be checked and cleaned regularly. Some can be somewhat sloppy, and some snore.

Health
• Major concerns: CHD
• Minor concerns: otitis externa, patellar luxation
• Occasionally seen: PRA, SAS
• Suggested tests: hip, eye
• Life span: 12 – 14 years

Form and Function
Somewhat longer than tall, solidly built with moderate bone, the field spaniel is a dog without exaggeration, a combination of beauty and utility. Its stride is long and low, with head held proudly and alertly and the tail wagging but not carried high. The field spaniel is built for both activity and stamina, enabling it to hunt in dense cover or water. It has a single coat, which is flat or slightly wavy and moderately long, giving it protection from thorns and water. The expression is grave and gentle.

Related Dogs
Giant Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzer
Standard Schnauzer