A glossy, flat-lying coat with a silky feel that resists weather well, with feathering on the ears, chest, underside and back of the legs. It should never be curly or wiry.12
Coloursblackblack and tanblue roanblue roan and tanliverliver and tanliver roanliver roan and tan1
Personality what they are like
A soft-natured, sensitive spaniel that is calm at home yet keen and energetic outdoors. It tends to be more laid back than a Cocker, has an independent streak, and is usually patient with children and friendly with other dogs when well socialised.124
Daily activity how busy a day looks
A working gundog built for flushing and retrieving, so it needs daily walks plus off-lead running or scent games.1
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Regular brushing keeps the silky coat and feathering free of tangles; the long ears are worth checking after outings.2
Company who they like around
Bonds closely with its family and does best as a companion that shares everyday country life with its people.12
The story where it all began
The Field Spaniel came from crosses of Sussex-type and Cocker spaniels in the late 1800s, first as a black show spaniel. After two near disappearances, breeders rebuilt it in the mid-20th century as a sounder working dog, partly with English Springer blood, and The Kennel Club restored its championship status in 1969.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Only 51 Field Spaniels were registered with The Kennel Club in 2009, the fewest of any spaniel breed that year.2
2
The modern breed traces back to just four dogs from the 1950s.2
3
A Field Spaniel named Ch. Obo, born in 1879, is a shared ancestor of today's English Cocker Spaniels.2
4
A 2024 UK study found Field Spaniels living about 13.1 years on average, above the purebred average of 12.7.2
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed name 'Field Spaniel' comes from its original purpose as a flushing and retrieving dog used for field work, specifically hunting in rough cover and water. The term 'spaniel' itself traces back to ancient origins, but the 'Field' designation distinguishes this breed as a working gundog for the field.1
I wake to the soft creak of the back door. My human's hand brushes my ears, and I stretch, ready for the day. We pad into the garden, where dewy grass tickles my paws. I sniff every corner, finding yesterday's squirrel scent. Later, we walk through the woods; I bound ahead, then circle back to check on my human. When a leaf flutters, I pounce, tail wagging. At home, I curl on the rug, watching the light shift. A gentle pat tells me I'm exactly where I belong.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
FCI
Standard No. 123, Group 8 (Retrievers, Flushing Dogs, Water Dogs), Section 2 Flushing Dogs.1
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Field Spaniel, and at what times?
Feed your adult Field Spaniel at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. The exact times can fit your daily routine, so ask your vet for a schedule that works best for your dog.5
What should a Field Spaniel eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Offer a high-quality dog food suited to your dog's age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, xylitol, onion, and garlic as listed by the ASPCA. For portion sizes, follow the food label and check with your vet.6
How often should I bathe a Field Spaniel?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 28 days, while the ASPCA recommends at least once every three months. Adjust the frequency based on how dirty your dog gets, and always use a gentle dog shampoo.7Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Field Spaniel need brushing?
Brush your Field Spaniel's silky coat every two days to keep it free of tangles, as Furry Diary suggests. Daily brushing is ideal for long coats, especially on the feathering, to maintain that glossy look.72Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Field Spaniel's nails, and how often?
Trim your Field Spaniel's nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick, and ask your vet or a groomer if you're unsure.7Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Field Spaniel need?
This energetic gundog needs daily walks plus off-lead running or scent games to stay happy and healthy. Aim for at least an hour of activity each day, as Furry Diary's plan recommends.1Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Field Spaniel's teeth and ears?
Brush your Field Spaniel's teeth every two days (daily is ideal) using dog toothpaste. Check and dry its floppy ears weekly to prevent moisture buildup, and never push anything into the ear canal.72Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Field Spaniel live?
Field Spaniels typically live around 13 years, with some enjoying even longer lives. With good care and regular vet checkups, you can look forward to many happy years together.23
Is a Field Spaniel good with children and other pets?
Yes, a well-socialised Field Spaniel is usually patient with children and friendly with other dogs. It bonds closely with its family and thrives in a home where it can share everyday life.124
Can a Field Spaniel be left alone?
Field Spaniels form strong bonds with their people and prefer company, so they may struggle with long periods alone. How well they cope varies by individual, so ask a good breeder or a vet for advice on training for alone time.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
English Cocker Spaniel
Sussex Spaniel
English Springer Spaniel