Field Spaniel
Dog breed
Medium-sized sporting dog with silky, glossy coat in black, liver, or roan colors, built for endurance and agility in the field with an adaptable, noble temperament
More about the Field Spaniel
The Field Spaniel is a medium-sized dog breed of spaniel type. They were originally developed to be all-black show dogs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and were unpopular for work as a hunting dog. However, during the mid-20th century they were redeveloped as a longer-legged dog that was more suitable to be used for field work. They are now considered to be a rare breed, and are registered as a Vulnerable Native Breed by The Kennel Club.
Living with a Field Spaniel
A gentle, soulful spaniel who bonds deeply with family and moves through the world with quiet, thoughtful sensitivity.
Personality & fit
Field Spaniels are docile, affectionate, and intelligent, forming close bonds with their people rather than seeking out strangers. Their sensitive nature means they do best in calm, patient households and can shut down under harsh handling or a chaotic environment.
Exercise & energy
Moderate to high energy, they were bred for fieldwork and enjoy daily walks, sniffing time, and play sessions, ideally 45-60 minutes a day. They're happiest with a job to do, whether that's a hike, a game of fetch, or scent work.
Grooming & coat
Their silky, glossy coat needs brushing two to three times a week to prevent mats, especially around the ears, legs, and belly feathering. Regular ear checks are important since those long, low-hanging ears trap moisture and debris.
Training
Smart and eager to please, but their sensitivity means training works best with gentle, consistent, reward-based methods rather than firm corrections. Early socialization helps counter a natural wariness with new people.
Health to watch
Watch for hip dysplasia, ear infections, and eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy, reputable breeders often screen for these. Routine vet checkups and keeping ears clean and dry go a long way toward keeping them comfortable.
Good to know
This is a rare breed, so finding a puppy may take patience and some searching for a responsible breeder. Their sensitivity means they thrive best in a quiet, loving home rather than a high-stress or overly boisterous one.
General guidance to help you get to know the breed, not veterinary advice. Always consult your vet for your own pet.
🏠 Adoptable near you
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Personality
At a glance
Breed traits from The Dog API · summary from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA). General guidance only, every individual pet is unique.