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{{Infobox Dogbreed
{{Infobox Dogbreed
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| name = Field Spaniel
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| nickname =
| image = Field spaniel 581.jpg
| image = Field spaniel 581.jpg
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| nickname = Field
| akcgroup = Sporting
| akcstd = http://www.akc.org/breeds/field_spaniel/index.cfm
| ankcgroup = Group 3 (Gundogs)
| ankcstd = http://www.ankc.aust.com/fieldsp.html
| ckcgroup = Group 1 - Sporting Dogs
| ckcstd = http://www.ckc.ca/en/Portals/0/pdf/breeds/SAF.pdf
| country = England
| country = England
| weight = {{convert|16|-|27|kg|lb}}
| fcigroup = [[FCI Retriever, Flushing Dog and Water Dog Group|8]]
| height = {{convert|40|-|48|cm|in}}
| fcinum = 123
<!-----Kennel club standards----->
| fcisection = 2 Flushing Dogs
| kc_name = [[The Kennel Club]]
| fcistd = http://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/123g08-en.pdf
| kc_std = https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/services/public/breed/standard.aspx?id=2054
| kcukgroup = Gundog
| kcukstd = http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/115
| fcistd = http://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/123g08-en.pdf
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}}<!-- End Infobox Dogbreed info. Article Begins Here -->
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| name = Field Spaniel
| nzkcgroup = Gundog
| nzkcstd = http://www.nzkc.org.nz/br349.html
| ukcgroup = Gun Dog
| ukcstd = http://www.ukcdogs.com/WebSite.nsf/Breeds/FieldSpaniel
}}
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<!-- End Infobox Dogbreed info. Article Begins Here -->
The '''Field Spaniel''' The Field Spaniel is a heavy boned breed dog of the [[Spaniel|spaniel]] type. In the late 19th century the term “field spaniel” was used to describe all the land spaniels which were then apportioned with names depending on size and colour: smaller dogs were [[Cocker_Spaniel|cockers]], larger ones [[Springer_Spaniel|springers]]. If the larger ones were liver/white and black/white they were deemed springers, if solid coloured they were Fields<ref>https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/services/public/breed/display.aspx?id=2054</ref><ref>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cocker_Spaniel</ref>. They are now considered to be a rare breed, and are registered as a [[Vulnerable Native Breeds|Vulnerable Native Breed]] by [[The Kennel Club]].


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 Breeds|Vulnerable Native Breed]] by [[The Kennel Club]].
Their fur is darker than other spaniels and they have no [[Down hair|undercoat]] like most of the other field type [[spaniel]]s. Their coats come mostly in solid colours with some occasional markings on the chest. They can make good family dogs and are patient with children, but can require some sort of purpose, be it hunting or agility work in order to prevent them from becoming bored and destructive.

Their fur is darker than other spaniels and they have no [[Down hair|undercoat]] like most of the other field type [[spaniel]]s.


==History==
==History==
[[image:Clareholmdora.jpg|thumb|left|Ch. Clareholm Dora, [[List of Best in Show winners of Crufts|Best Champion]] at [[Crufts]] in 1909.]]
[[Image:Clareholmdora.jpg|thumb|left|Ch. Clareholm Dora, [[List of Best in Show winners of Crufts|Best Champion]] at [[Crufts]] in 1909.]]
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The Field Spaniel was originally developed for the show ring<ref name="Arkwright">{{cite book |last=Arkwright |first=W. |title=British dogs, their points, selection and show preparation |editor-last=Drury |editor-first=W. D. |year=1903 |edition=Third |publisher=Upcott Gill |page=315}}</ref> by competitors who were attempting to develop an all-black Spaniel.<ref name="northamerican"/> Some of the breeding methods of those early developers were criticised; one of the first breeders of the Field Spaniel, Thomas Jacobs, said of the origin; "Much has been written and said on the purity of the breed; deprecating the means I have adopted to produce them as calculated to alter a presumed type, and frequent missiles have been hurled at me and my dogs from behind the hedge. But where is the pure bred black spaniel we hear so much about? Proof of the existence of the pure bred one (if there ever was one!) has not been forthcoming. Like most sporting dogs, they are the result of different crosses."<ref name=spanieltraining />
Spaniels were first mentioned in the 14th century by Gaston III of Foix-Béarn in his work the Livre de Chasse. The "cocking" or "cocker spaniel" was a type of field or land spaniel in the 19th century. Prior to 1901, Cocker Spaniels were only separated from Field Spaniels and Springer Spaniels by weight<ref>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cocker_Spaniel</ref>.


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They were unpopular with sportsmen as the dark colours of the breed did not show up in hunting conditions, and the elongated and short shape of the early breed was not very practical for moving easily through cover.<ref name="northamerican"/> The low-slung variety of Field Spaniel were developed by Phineas Bullock from dogs previously owned by Sir [[Francis Burdett]],<ref name="spanieltraining">{{cite book|last=Mercer|first=F H F|title=The Spaniel and Its Training|year=1890|publisher=Forest And Stream Pub. Co|pages=25–26|isbn=9781444647990|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=PfVbqDPdUGYC&q=Phineas+Bullock&pg=PA25}}</ref><ref name="palika">{{cite book|last=Palika|first=Liz|title=The Howell Book of Dogs: The Definitive Reference to 300 Breeds and Varieties|year=2007|publisher=John Wiley & Sons|isbn=978-0-470-00921-5|pages=236–237|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YB-d9fxVGFQC&q=%22field+spaniel%22&pg=PA236}}</ref> the secretary of the Birmingham Dog Show. Burdett was said to have owned a variety of black [[English Cocker Spaniel|Cocker Spaniel]]s. Bullock crossed the Field Spaniel with the [[Sussex Spaniel]] and the [[English Water Spaniel]]. In the 1870s, Burdett was very successful in the show ring with his variety of Field Spaniel; however, it resulted in a dog that was almost exactly like a Sussex Spaniel with the exception of the head itself.<ref name="islands">{{cite book|last=Walsh|first=John Henry|title=The Dogs of the British Islands|year=1878|publisher=The Field Office|pages=93–94|isbn=9781444653601|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=anAQ_GvvNtwC&q=%22field+spaniel%22&pg=PA93}}</ref>
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Some early the breeding methods of early developers were criticised; one of the first breeders of the Field Spaniel, Thomas Jacobs, said of the origin; "Much has been written and said on the purity of the breed; deprecating the means I have adopted to produce them as calculated to alter a presumed type, and frequent missiles have at me and my dogs from behind the hedge. But where is the pure bred black spaniel we hear so much about? Proof of the existence of the pure bred one (if there ever was one!) has not been forthcoming. Like most sporting dogs, they are the result of different crosses."<ref name=spanieltraining />


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The dog considered to be the common ancestor of the modern [[English Cocker Spaniel]] is Ch. Obo, born in 1879 to a Sussex Spaniel father and a Field Spaniel mother. Obo's son Ch. [[Obo II]] is considered to be the father of the modern [[American Cocker Spaniel]], being described as only 10 inches high with quite a long body.<ref name="cockerpalika">{{cite book|last=Palika|first=Liz|title=Cocker Spaniel: Your Happy Healthy Pet|year=2009|publisher=John Wiley & Sons|isbn=978-0-470-39060-3|pages=20–21|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=tVdraCvRVNcC&q=%22field+spaniel%22&pg=PA20}}</ref>
⚫
They were unpopular with sportsmen as the dark colours of the breed did not show up in hunting conditions, and the elongated and short shape of the early breed was not very practical for moving easily through cover.<ref name="northamerican"/> The low-slung variety of Field Spaniel were developed by Phineas Bullock from dogs previously owned by Sir [[Francis Burdett]],<ref name="spanieltraining">{{cite book|last=Mercer|first=F H F|title=The Spaniel and Its Training|year=1890|publisher=Forest And Stream Pub. Co|pages=25–26|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=PfVbqDPdUGYC&pg=PA25&lpg=PA25&dq=Phineas+Bullock#v=onepage&q=Phineas%20Bullock&f=false}}</ref><ref name="palika">{{cite book|last=Palika|first=Liz|title=The Howell Book of Dogs: The Definitive Reference to 300 Breeds and Varieties|year=2007|publisher=John Wiley & Sons|isbn=978-0-470-00921-5|pages=236–237|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YB-d9fxVGFQC&pg=PA236&dq=%22field+spaniel%22#v=onepage&q=%22field%20spaniel%22&f=false}}</ref> the secretary of the Birmingham Dog Show. Burdett was said to have owned a variety of black [[English Cocker Spaniel|Cocker Spaniel]]s. Bullock crossed the Field Spaniel with the [[Sussex Spaniel]] and the [[English Water Spaniel]]. In the 1870s he was very successful in the show ring with his variety of Field Spaniel; however, it resulted in a dog that was almost exactly like a Sussex Spaniel with the exception of the head itself.<ref name="islands">{{cite book|last=Walsh|first=John Henry|title=The Dogs of the British Islands|year=1878|publisher=The Field Office|pages=93–94|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=anAQ_GvvNtwC&pg=PA93&dq=%22field+spaniel%22#v=onepage&q=%22field%20spaniel%22&f=false}}</ref>


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By 1909, the average weight of a Field Spaniel was {{convert|35|-|45|lb|kg}}.<ref>{{cite book|last=Smith|first=A. Croxton|title=Everyman's Book of the Dog|year=1909|publisher=Hodder and Staunton|page=101|url=https://archive.org/stream/everymansbookofd00smitrich#page/n155/mode/2up}}</ref> Further mixing of the breed occurred with elements of the [[Basset Hound]] introduced. Various genetic health issues arose and action was taken in order to correct the problems within the breed. [[English Springer Spaniel]]s were used to introduce healthier elements into the breed and resulted in the longer legged spaniel known today. Most of the modern breed can be traced to four dogs from the 1950s; Colombina of Teffont, Elmbury Morwena of Rhiwlas, Gormac Teal, and Ronayne Regal.<ref name="FieldSpanielSocietyUSHistory">{{cite web|title=Breed History|url=http://www.fieldspanielsocietyofamerica.org/breed-history/|website=www.fieldspanielsocietyofamerica.org|access-date=21 December 2017}}</ref>{{self-published inline|date=April 2024}}
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The dog who is considered to be the father of the modern [[English Cocker Spaniel]] is Ch. Obo, who was born in 1879 to a Sussex Spaniel father and a Field Spaniel mother. Obo's son Ch. [[Obo II]] is considered to be the father of the modern [[American Cocker Spaniel]], who was described as being only ten inches high with quite a long body.<ref name="cockerpalika">{{cite book|last=Palika|first=Liz|title=Cocker Spaniel: Your Happy Healthy Pet|year=2009|publisher=John Wiley & Sons|isbn=978-0-470-39060-3|pages=20–21|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=tVdraCvRVNcC&pg=PA20&dq=%22field+spaniel%22#v=onepage&q=%22field%20spaniel%22&f=false}}</ref>


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The Field Spaniel remains a rare breed, even in the UK. In 2009, a total of 51 dogs were registered with [[The Kennel Club]] and it has been in steady decline since 2000. Out of all the Spaniel breeds registered with The Kennel Club, the Field Spaniel has the lowest number registered year on year, with only the [[Sussex Spaniel]] coming a close second with 60 registrations in 2009. This may be compared with the [[English Springer Spaniel]] with 12,700 registrations and the [[English Cocker Spaniel]] with 22,211 registrations in 2009 alone.<ref>{{cite web|title=COMPARATIVE TABLES OF REGISTRATIONS FOR THE YEARS 2004 - 2013 INCLUSIVE|url=http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/media/129013/10yrstatsgundog.pdf|work=[[The Kennel Club]]|access-date=26 October 2014|archive-date=7 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141107195654/http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/media/129013/10yrstatsgundog.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref> In order to promote the breed, it has been registered as a [[Vulnerable Native Breeds|Vulnerable Native Breed]] by The Kennel Club.<ref name="vulner">{{cite web|title=An Introduction to the Vulnerable Native Breeds|url=http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/808|work=The Kennel Club|access-date=10 October 2010|archive-date=16 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130116211004/http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/808|url-status=dead}}</ref>
⚫
By 1909, the average weight of a Field Spaniel was {{convert|35|-|45|lb|kg}}.<ref>{{cite book|last=Smith|first=A. Croxton|title=Everyman's Book of the Dog|year=1909|publisher=Hodder and Staunton|page=101|url=https://archive.org/stream/everymansbookofd00smitrich#page/n155/mode/2up}}</ref> Further mixing of the breed occurred with elements of the [[Basset Hound]] introduced. Various genetic health issues arose and action was taken in order to correct the problems within the breed. [[English Springer Spaniel]]s were used to introduce healthier elements into the breed and resulted in the longer legged spaniel that we know today. Most of the modern breed can be traced to four dogs from the 1950s; Colombina of Teffont, Elmbury Morwena of Rhiwlas, Gormac Teal, and Ronayne Regal.<ref name="sarah">{{cite web|title=Field Spaniel Information|url=http://www.sarahsdogs.com/breeds/field_spaniel/|publisher=Sarah's Dogs|accessdate=10 October 2010}}</ref>


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==Description==
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The Field Spaniel remains a rare breed, even in the UK. In 2009, a total of 51 dogs were registered with [[The Kennel Club]] and has been in steady decline since 2000. Out of all the Spaniel breeds registered with The Kennel Club, the Field Spaniel has the lowest numbered registered year on year, with only the [[Sussex Spaniel]] coming a close second with 60 registrations in 2009. This is compared to the [[English Springer Spaniel]] with 12,700 and the [[English Cocker Spaniel]] with 22,211 registrations in 2009 alone.<ref>{{cite web|title=COMPARATIVE TABLES OF REGISTRATIONS FOR THE YEARS 2004 - 2013 INCLUSIVE|url=http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/media/129013/10yrstatsgundog.pdf|work=[[The Kennel Club]]|accessdate=26 October 2014}}</ref> In order to promote the breed, they have been registered as a [[Vulnerable Native Breeds|Vulnerable Native Breed]] by The Kennel Club.<ref name="vulner">{{cite web|title=An Introduction to the Vulnerable Native Breeds|url=http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/808|work=The Kennel Club|accessdate=10 October 2010}}</ref>

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== Description ==


===Appearance===
===Appearance===
[[File:Field Spaniel In Liver Color.jpg|thumb|upright|Field Spaniel In liver colour]]
[[File:Field Spaniel In Liver Color.jpg|thumb|upright|Field Spaniel In liver colour]]
The standard size for a Field Spaniel is {{convert|17|-|18|in|cm}} tall at the [[withers]],<ref name="northamerican">{{cite book|last=Smith|first=Steve|title=The Encyclopedia of North American Sporting Dogs: Written by Sportsmen for Sportsmen|year=2002|publisher=Willow Creek Press|isbn=978-1-57223-501-4|pages=136–137|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=d4FnXfnoc-IC&pg=PA137&dq=%22field+spaniel%22#v=onepage&q=%22field%20spaniel%22&f=false}}</ref> and a weight of between {{convert|40|-|55|lb|kg}}.<ref name="kennelclubstandard">{{cite web|title=Spaniel (Field) Breed Standard|url=http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/115|work=The Kennel Club|accessdate=9 October 2010|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100725091656/http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/item/115 <!--Added by H3llBot-->|archivedate=25 July 2010}}</ref> This places it roughly between the [[English Cocker Spaniel]] and the [[English Springer Spaniel]] in size.<ref name="burke">{{cite book|last=Burke|first=Don|title=The Complete Burke's backyard: the Ultimate Book of Fact Sheets|year=2005|publisher=Murdoch Books|isbn=1-74045-739-0|pages=791–792|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=MMMjW6AuzHAC&pg=PA791&dq=%22field+spaniel%22#v=onepage&q=%22field%20spaniel%22&f=false}}</ref> Its long, silky [[coat (dog)|coat]] comes in solid colours of black, liver, or roan. Tan points, white markings on the throat and the chest can be ticked or the same colour as the rest of the body.<ref name="northamerican"/>
The standard size for a Field Spaniel is approximately {{convert|46|cm|in}} tall at the [[withers]], and a weight of between {{convert|18|and|25|kg|lb}}.<ref name="kennelclubstandard">{{cite web |title=Spaniel (Field) Standard |url=https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/breed-standards/gundog/spaniel-field/ |website=Kennel Club |access-date=16 April 2024}}</ref> This places it roughly between the [[English Cocker Spaniel]] and the [[English Springer Spaniel]] in size.<ref name="burke">{{cite book|last=Burke|first=Don|title=The Complete Burke's backyard: the Ultimate Book of Fact Sheets|year=2005|publisher=Murdoch Books|isbn=1-74045-739-0|pages=791–792|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=MMMjW6AuzHAC&q=%22field+spaniel%22&pg=PA791}}</ref> Its [[coat (dog)|coat]] comes in solid colours of black and liver, or in roan. Tan points, white markings on the throat and the chest can be ticked or the same colour as the rest of the body.<ref name="KCFieldSpanielOverview">{{cite web|title=Breed Information Centre - Spaniel (Field) - Description|url=https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/services/public/breed/display.aspx?id=2054|website=The Kennel Club|access-date=21 December 2017}}</ref><ref name="northamerican">{{cite book|last=Smith|first=Steve|title=The Encyclopedia of North American Sporting Dogs: Written by Sportsmen for Sportsmen|year=2002|publisher=Willow Creek Press|isbn=978-1-57223-501-4|pages=136–137|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=d4FnXfnoc-IC&q=%22field+spaniel%22&pg=PA137}}</ref>


They have a moderately long single coat with no undercoat. Feathering of the fur appears on the chest, belly, ears and on the back of the legs. The coat is not as heavy as that of a [[Cocker Spaniel]] but will require grooming in order to prevent mats from appearing in the fur.<ref name=palika /> Docked tails were often used in working dogs, as poor blood flow left healing of the non docked tail difficult.
They have a moderately long single coat with no undercoat. Feathering of the fur appears on the chest, belly, ears and on the back of the legs. The coat is not as heavy as that of a [[Cocker Spaniel]] but requires grooming in order to prevent mats from appearing in the fur.<ref name=palika /> [[Docking (dog)|Docking]] of tails has been banned in a number of countries, including the UK; however, an exemption is made for working animals.<ref name="DockingBanKCPressRelease">{{cite web|title=Tail docking|url=https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/our-resources/media-centre/issue-statements/tail-docking/|website=www.thekennelclub.org.uk|access-date=21 December 2017|language=en|archive-date=19 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170719143843/http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/our-resources/media-centre/issue-statements/tail-docking|url-status=dead}}</ref>


===Temperament===
===Temperament===
[[image:Black Field Spaniel.jpg|thumb|right|A solid-black-coloured Field Spaniel.]]
[[Image:Black Field Spaniel.jpg|thumb|right|A solid-black-coloured Field Spaniel.]]
The Field Spaniel can be a good family dog while it has a job to do. They are suitable for [[dog agility]] and hunting. Without some sort of purpose, the dog can often try to amuse itself and cause mischief. However, they are patient with children and like to stay close to their family.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.akc.org/breeds/field_spaniel/|title=American Kennel Club - Field Spaniel|publisher=American Kennel Club|accessdate=3 November 2011}}</ref> When socialised, they are good with other dogs.<ref name=palika /> They are generally docile and independent, and are not as excitable as Cocker Spaniels.<ref name=burke /> [[Stanley Coren]]'s ''[[The Intelligence of Dogs]]'' lists the breed as being above average in working intelligence.<ref name=burke />
The Field Spaniel is an active and inquisitive breed, and makes a good companion. However, if left alone and unoccupied for long periods of time, they may become bored and destructive.{{citation needed|date=April 2024}} They are suitable for [[dog agility]] exercises and hunting. They are patient with children and like to stay close to their family.{{citation needed|date=April 2024}} When socialised, they are good with other dogs.<ref name=palika /> They are generally docile and independent, and are not as excitable as Cocker Spaniels.<ref name=burke /> [[Stanley Coren]]'s ''[[The Intelligence of Dogs]]'' lists the breed as being above average in working intelligence.<ref name=burke />


==Health==
==Health==
A 2024 UK study found a life expectancy of 13.1 years for the breed compared to an average of 12.7 for purebreeds and 12 for [[Mongrel|crossbreeds]].<ref>{{cite journal | last1=McMillan | first1=Kirsten M. | last2=Bielby | first2=Jon | last3=Williams | first3=Carys L. | last4=Upjohn | first4=Melissa M. | last5=Casey | first5=Rachel A. | last6=Christley | first6=Robert M. | title=Longevity of companion dog breeds: those at risk from early death | journal=Scientific Reports | publisher=Springer Science and Business Media LLC | volume=14 | issue=1 | date=2024-02-01 | issn=2045-2322 | doi=10.1038/s41598-023-50458-w | page=531| pmid=38302530 | pmc=10834484 }}</ref>
There are a few ocular conditions to which the Field Spaniel has a predisposition. These include [[cataract]]s, [[retinal atrophy]] and [[retinal dysplasia]].<ref name="predisp">{{cite book|last=Gough|first=Alex|title=Breed Predispositions to Disease in Dogs and Cats|year=2010|publisher=Wiley-Blackwell|isbn=978-1-4051-8078-8|page=85|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Pab4ua8HaRMC&pg=PA2009-IA47&dq=%22field+spaniel%22#v=onepage&q=%22field%20spaniel%22&f=false}}</ref> [[Hip dysplasia (canine)|Hip dysplasia]] has appeared in British lines of Field Spaniels.<ref name=burke /> In a health survey conducted by the Kennel Club (UK), the primary cause of death in Field Spaniels was [[cancer in dogs|cancer]], with the second most frequent cause being [[aging in dogs|old age]]. The [[median]] lifespan for the breed was found to be eleven years and eight months, which is five months higher than the median age for all dog breeds.<ref>{{cite web|title=Report from the Kennel Club/British Small Animal Veterinary Association Scientific Committee; Summary Results of the Purebred Dog Health Survey for Field Spaniels |url=http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/download/1550/hsfieldspaniel.pdf |publisher=The Kennel Club |accessdate=30 January 2011 |format=PDF |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120609233655/http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/download/1550/hsfieldspaniel.pdf |archivedate=9 June 2012 |df= }}</ref>
There are a few ocular conditions to which the Field Spaniel has a predisposition. These include [[cataract]]s, [[retinal atrophy]] and [[retinal dysplasia]].<ref name="predisp">{{cite book|last=Gough|first=Alex|title=Breed Predispositions to Disease in Dogs and Cats|year=2010|publisher=Wiley-Blackwell|isbn=978-1-4051-8078-8|page=85|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Pab4ua8HaRMC&q=%22field+spaniel%22&pg=PA2009-IA47}}</ref> [[Hip dysplasia (canine)|Hip dysplasia]] has appeared in British lines of Field Spaniels.<ref name=burke /> The Kennel Club and [[British Veterinary Association]] highly recommend eye testing and hip scoring be carried out by Field Spaniel breeders.<ref name="KCFieldSpanielHealthInfo">{{cite web|title=Health Information - Spaniel (Field)|url=https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/services/public/breed/health.aspx?id=2054|website=The Kennel Club|access-date=21 December 2017|archive-date=22 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222051521/https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/services/public/breed/health.aspx?id=2054|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="FieldSpanielHealth">{{cite web|title=Field Spaniel Health Charity - Health Schemes|url=http://www.fieldspanielhealth.co.uk/schemes.htm|website=www.fieldspanielhealth.co.uk|access-date=21 December 2017}}</ref> In a health survey conducted by the Kennel Club (UK), the primary cause of death in Field Spaniels was [[cancer in dogs|cancer]], with the second most frequent cause being [[aging in dogs|old age]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Report from the Kennel Club/British Small Animal Veterinary Association Scientific Committee; Summary Results of the Purebred Dog Health Survey for Field Spaniels |url=http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/download/1550/hsfieldspaniel.pdf |publisher=The Kennel Club |access-date=30 January 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120609233655/http://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/download/1550/hsfieldspaniel.pdf |archive-date=9 June 2012 }}</ref>


==References==
==References==
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==External links==
==External links==
{{commons category}}
{{commons category}}
*{{dmoz|Recreation/Pets/Dogs/Breeds/Sporting-Gundog_Group/Field_Spaniel/}}


{{Gundogs}}
{{Gundogs}}
{{English dogs}}
{{English dogs}}


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[[Category:Dog breeds]]
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[[Category:Spaniels]]
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[[Category:Sporting dogs]]
[[Category:Dog breeds originating in England]]
[[Category:Dog breeds originating in England]]
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[[Category:FCI breeds]]
[[Category:Rare dog breeds]]
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[[Category:Spaniels]]
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[[Category:Gundogs]]
[[Category:Vulnerable Native Breeds]]
[[Category:Vulnerable Native Breeds]]

Latest revision as of 13:14, 28 December 2024

Field Spaniel
OriginEngland
Traits
Height 40–48 centimetres (16–19 in)
Weight 16–27 kilograms (35–60 lb)
Kennel club standards
The Kennel Club standard
Fédération Cynologique Internationale standard
Dog (domestic dog)

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.

Their fur is darker than other spaniels and they have no undercoat like most of the other field type spaniels.

History

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Ch. Clareholm Dora, Best Champion at Crufts in 1909.

The Field Spaniel was originally developed for the show ring[1] by competitors who were attempting to develop an all-black Spaniel.[2] Some of the breeding methods of those early developers were criticised; one of the first breeders of the Field Spaniel, Thomas Jacobs, said of the origin; "Much has been written and said on the purity of the breed; deprecating the means I have adopted to produce them as calculated to alter a presumed type, and frequent missiles have been hurled at me and my dogs from behind the hedge. But where is the pure bred black spaniel we hear so much about? Proof of the existence of the pure bred one (if there ever was one!) has not been forthcoming. Like most sporting dogs, they are the result of different crosses."[3]

They were unpopular with sportsmen as the dark colours of the breed did not show up in hunting conditions, and the elongated and short shape of the early breed was not very practical for moving easily through cover.[2] The low-slung variety of Field Spaniel were developed by Phineas Bullock from dogs previously owned by Sir Francis Burdett,[3][4] the secretary of the Birmingham Dog Show. Burdett was said to have owned a variety of black Cocker Spaniels. Bullock crossed the Field Spaniel with the Sussex Spaniel and the English Water Spaniel. In the 1870s, Burdett was very successful in the show ring with his variety of Field Spaniel; however, it resulted in a dog that was almost exactly like a Sussex Spaniel with the exception of the head itself.[5]

The dog considered to be the common ancestor of the modern English Cocker Spaniel is Ch. Obo, born in 1879 to a Sussex Spaniel father and a Field Spaniel mother. Obo's son Ch. Obo II is considered to be the father of the modern American Cocker Spaniel, being described as only 10 inches high with quite a long body.[6]

By 1909, the average weight of a Field Spaniel was 35–45 pounds (16–20 kg).[7] Further mixing of the breed occurred with elements of the Basset Hound introduced. Various genetic health issues arose and action was taken in order to correct the problems within the breed. English Springer Spaniels were used to introduce healthier elements into the breed and resulted in the longer legged spaniel known today. Most of the modern breed can be traced to four dogs from the 1950s; Colombina of Teffont, Elmbury Morwena of Rhiwlas, Gormac Teal, and Ronayne Regal.[8][self-published source?]

The Field Spaniel remains a rare breed, even in the UK. In 2009, a total of 51 dogs were registered with The Kennel Club and it has been in steady decline since 2000. Out of all the Spaniel breeds registered with The Kennel Club, the Field Spaniel has the lowest number registered year on year, with only the Sussex Spaniel coming a close second with 60 registrations in 2009. This may be compared with the English Springer Spaniel with 12,700 registrations and the English Cocker Spaniel with 22,211 registrations in 2009 alone.[9] In order to promote the breed, it has been registered as a Vulnerable Native Breed by The Kennel Club.[10]

Description

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Appearance

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Field Spaniel In liver colour

The standard size for a Field Spaniel is approximately 46 centimetres (18 in) tall at the withers, and a weight of between 18 and 25 kilograms (40 and 55 lb).[11] This places it roughly between the English Cocker Spaniel and the English Springer Spaniel in size.[12] Its coat comes in solid colours of black and liver, or in roan. Tan points, white markings on the throat and the chest can be ticked or the same colour as the rest of the body.[13][2]

They have a moderately long single coat with no undercoat. Feathering of the fur appears on the chest, belly, ears and on the back of the legs. The coat is not as heavy as that of a Cocker Spaniel but requires grooming in order to prevent mats from appearing in the fur.[4] Docking of tails has been banned in a number of countries, including the UK; however, an exemption is made for working animals.[14]

Temperament

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A solid-black-coloured Field Spaniel.

The Field Spaniel is an active and inquisitive breed, and makes a good companion. However, if left alone and unoccupied for long periods of time, they may become bored and destructive.[citation needed] They are suitable for dog agility exercises and hunting. They are patient with children and like to stay close to their family.[citation needed] When socialised, they are good with other dogs.[4] They are generally docile and independent, and are not as excitable as Cocker Spaniels.[12] Stanley Coren's The Intelligence of Dogs lists the breed as being above average in working intelligence.[12]

Health

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A 2024 UK study found a life expectancy of 13.1 years for the breed compared to an average of 12.7 for purebreeds and 12 for crossbreeds.[15] There are a few ocular conditions to which the Field Spaniel has a predisposition. These include cataracts, retinal atrophy and retinal dysplasia.[16] Hip dysplasia has appeared in British lines of Field Spaniels.[12] The Kennel Club and British Veterinary Association highly recommend eye testing and hip scoring be carried out by Field Spaniel breeders.[17][18] In a health survey conducted by the Kennel Club (UK), the primary cause of death in Field Spaniels was cancer, with the second most frequent cause being old age.[19]

References

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  1. ^ Arkwright, W. (1903). Drury, W. D. (ed.). British dogs, their points, selection and show preparation (Third ed.). Upcott Gill. p. 315.
  2. ^ a b c Smith, Steve (2002). The Encyclopedia of North American Sporting Dogs: Written by Sportsmen for Sportsmen. Willow Creek Press. pp. 136–137. ISBN 978-1-57223-501-4.
  3. ^ a b Mercer, F H F (1890). The Spaniel and Its Training. Forest And Stream Pub. Co. pp. 25–26. ISBN 9781444647990.
  4. ^ a b c Palika, Liz (2007). The Howell Book of Dogs: The Definitive Reference to 300 Breeds and Varieties. John Wiley & Sons. pp. 236–237. ISBN 978-0-470-00921-5.
  5. ^ Walsh, John Henry (1878). The Dogs of the British Islands. The Field Office. pp. 93–94. ISBN 9781444653601.
  6. ^ Palika, Liz (2009). Cocker Spaniel: Your Happy Healthy Pet. John Wiley & Sons. pp. 20–21. ISBN 978-0-470-39060-3.
  7. ^ Smith, A. Croxton (1909). Everyman's Book of the Dog. Hodder and Staunton. p. 101.
  8. ^ "Breed History". www.fieldspanielsocietyofamerica.org. Retrieved 21 December 2017.
  9. ^ "COMPARATIVE TABLES OF REGISTRATIONS FOR THE YEARS 2004 - 2013 INCLUSIVE" (PDF). The Kennel Club. Archived from the original (PDF) on 7 November 2014. Retrieved 26 October 2014.
  10. ^ "An Introduction to the Vulnerable Native Breeds". The Kennel Club. Archived from the original on 16 January 2013. Retrieved 10 October 2010.
  11. ^ "Spaniel (Field) Standard". Kennel Club. Retrieved 16 April 2024.
  12. ^ a b c d Burke, Don (2005). The Complete Burke's backyard: the Ultimate Book of Fact Sheets. Murdoch Books. pp. 791–792. ISBN 1-74045-739-0.
  13. ^ "Breed Information Centre - Spaniel (Field) - Description". The Kennel Club. Retrieved 21 December 2017.
  14. ^ "Tail docking". www.thekennelclub.org.uk. Archived from the original on 19 July 2017. Retrieved 21 December 2017.
  15. ^ McMillan, Kirsten M.; Bielby, Jon; Williams, Carys L.; Upjohn, Melissa M.; Casey, Rachel A.; Christley, Robert M. (2024-02-01). "Longevity of companion dog breeds: those at risk from early death". Scientific Reports. 14 (1). Springer Science and Business Media LLC: 531. doi:10.1038/s41598-023-50458-w. ISSN 2045-2322. PMC 10834484. PMID 38302530.
  16. ^ Gough, Alex (2010). Breed Predispositions to Disease in Dogs and Cats. Wiley-Blackwell. p. 85. ISBN 978-1-4051-8078-8.
  17. ^ "Health Information - Spaniel (Field)". The Kennel Club. Archived from the original on 22 December 2017. Retrieved 21 December 2017.
  18. ^ "Field Spaniel Health Charity - Health Schemes". www.fieldspanielhealth.co.uk. Retrieved 21 December 2017.
  19. ^ "Report from the Kennel Club/British Small Animal Veterinary Association Scientific Committee; Summary Results of the Purebred Dog Health Survey for Field Spaniels" (PDF). The Kennel Club. Archived from the original (PDF) on 9 June 2012. Retrieved 30 January 2011.

Further reading

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Grayson, Peggy (1984) The History and management of the Field Spaniel, Scan Books, ISBN 0-906360-10-2

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Wikimedia Commons has media related to Field Spaniel.
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