Field Spaniel
Field Spaniels are a rare, elegant spaniel with a single-coloured glossy coat and a calm, docile temperament well-suited to family life. Hailing from England, this medium-sized gundog breed has a lifespan of 10—12 years and typically weighs 18—25 kg. Standing 44—46 cm at the shoulder, the Field Spaniel is a breed that rewards thoughtful ownership with years of loyal companionship. Across Australia’s varied landscapes—from coastal suburbs to outback properties—owners appreciate this breed for its docile and sensible nature.
About the Field Spaniel
Field Spaniels are a rare, elegant spaniel with a single-coloured glossy coat and a calm, docile temperament well-suited to family life. Hailing from England, this medium-sized gundog breed has a lifespan of 10—12 years and typically weighs 18—25 kg. Standing 44—46 cm at the shoulder, the Field Spaniel is a breed that rewards thoughtful ownership with years of loyal companionship. Across Australia’s varied landscapes—from coastal suburbs to outback properties—owners appreciate this breed for its docile and sensible nature.
History
Developed in the 1800s as a longer, lower show dog variant of the Cocker Spaniel. Over-exaggeration nearly ruined the breed, but 20th-century breeders restored them to a practical, functional gun dog. One of the rarest spaniel breeds.
Temperament & Personality
Temperament is one of the Field Spaniel’s strongest selling points. This breed is characteristically docile, sensible, affectionate, adaptable, active and loyal, which makes them a popular choice for families with children in Australia. This breed is typically excellent with children of all ages. Patient and gentle, they make wonderful family companions. As with all breeds, supervision during interactions with very young children is recommended. With the right upbringing, a Field Spaniel will be docile and sensible in virtually any social setting. Owners consistently praise their affectionate nature as one of the breed’s most endearing qualities.
Training & Socialisation
The Field Spaniel is eager to please and generally straightforward to train. Early socialisation is critical—exposing your puppy to a wide variety of people, animals, sounds and environments between 8 and 16 weeks of age will help prevent behavioural issues later. In Australia, many local councils require dogs to be responsive to basic commands and well-socialised in public spaces. Puppy preschool classes are widely available across Australian cities and regional centres, and they provide an excellent foundation. Use positive reinforcement techniques—treats, praise and play—rather than punishment-based methods. Consistency is key: set clear household rules from day one and ensure all family members follow the same approach.
Care & Health
A rare breed—finding a breeder may be difficult. Generally healthy when well-bred. An excellent family spaniel with moderate needs.
Living Conditions
The Field Spaniel is adaptable to various living situations, from apartments to houses with yards, provided their exercise needs are met. In Australia’s varied climate, be mindful of heat—provide shade, fresh water and avoid exercising during the hottest parts of the day, particularly in summer.
Quick Facts
- Origin
- England
- Life Span
- 10—12 years
- Size
- medium
- Hair Shed
- moderate
- Grooming
- Twice a week
- Good with Kids
- high
- Exercise Needs
- medium
- Feeding Cost
- $15–$25 p/w
- Colours
- Black, liver, golden liver, roan.
Exercise
Exercise needs: medium
Moderate exercise of 45—60 minutes daily. Enjoys walks, light retrieving and countryside hikes. Well-suited to active families.
Health Considerations
Recommended Insurance for Field Spaniel
Field Spaniels are predisposed to several health conditions that can result in significant veterinary bills.
- ■Hip Dysplasia — typical treatment cost: $3,000–$8,000
- ■Progressive Retinal Atrophy — typical treatment cost: $1,000–$3,000
- ■Ear Infections — typical treatment cost: $1,000–$5,000+
- ■Hypothyroidism And Cataracts — typical treatment cost: $1,000–$5,000+
A comprehensive pet insurance policy can help cover the cost of diagnostics, surgery and ongoing treatment for these conditions. Many Australian providers offer plans starting from around $30–$60 per month for larger breeds, with annual benefit limits of $10,000–$25,000.
🛡️ Don’t wait until it’s too late
Pre-existing conditions are never covered. Insuring your Field Spaniel while they’re young and healthy gives you the broadest coverage at the lowest premium.
See which pet insurance plans suit Field Spaniels →Grooming
Silky coat needs brushing twice weekly. Ears need regular cleaning. Moderate shedding.
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- Excellent with children and families
- Highly affectionate and loyal companion
- Gets along well with other pets
- Playful and entertaining personality
Considerations
- May be prone to breed-specific health issues
- Not always readily available from Australian breeders
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Field Spaniel cost in Australia?
Is the Field Spaniel good with children?
How much exercise does a Field Spaniel need?
What health problems are common in Field Spaniels?
Does the Field Spaniel shed a lot?
Related Resources
Similar Breeds
Cocker Spaniel (English)
Explore our complete guide to the Cocker Spaniel (English) — temperament, care, health and what Australian owners need to know.
English Springer Spaniel
Explore our complete guide to the English Springer Spaniel — temperament, care, health and what Australian owners need to know.
Sussex Spaniel
Explore our complete guide to the Sussex Spaniel — temperament, care, health and what Australian owners need to know.