Killara Field Spaniels, Field Spaniel Kennel

Many people are taken aback when they see a Field Spaniel for the first time. They are drawn in by their beauty but left wondering about what kind of spaniel is this? People mistake them for other breeds such as a cocker spaniel or a field bred Springer. Even after they hear the name Field Spaniel the puzzled look remains on their faces. So what is a Field Spaniel?

Field Spaniels are a medium size spaniel that is larger than a Cocker Spaniel but smaller than a Springer. Males average approximately 18 inches in height and weight about 45-50 lbs. Females average about 17 inches in height with a weight around 34-39 pounds. There is a misconception that Field Spaniels were originally developed only to be show dog. It is true that the Field Spaniel was bred to be a solid black spaniel that would hopefully catch the judge’s eye in the ring. However, the main purpose of the Field Spaniel has always been to be a working spaniel able to flush and retrieve game.

Field Spaniels are not a maintenance free breed when it comes to grooming. Their dense coats are water repellent and require regular brushing. Clipping of the head, neck and ears are necessary to maintain a neat appearance as well as to prevent ear infections. The hair between the pads also requires scissoring. They also shed year-round with increased shedding in spring and fall.

There are many other habits of Field Spaniels that may not be appealing to all. They are infamous for their snoring abilities. Their drinking habits leave much to be desired as they love to let water run out of their mouth, throughout the house and often in your lap. Field Spaniels aren’t hyperactive but they are busy. They love to have toys scattered through out the house, and often find great joy in stealing clothing out of the laundry basket! Digging in the backyard is another favorite pastime, and water puddles are never to be avoided. Because of the shedding, playfulness and drinking habits, a Field Spaniel may not be suitable for a person that has house beautiful ambitions.

Field Spaniels may be initially reserved or aloof upon meeting new people. Often people can mistake this for shyness, which it is not. Shyness can best be described as a dog that is fearful, timid and avoids a new person. Where as a reserved spaniel will stay a few feet away and may "study" a new person and size them up. Usually after a short while the reserved field will decide either that the person is worth further investigating or they will ignore them and go about their usual business. Once they know the person they are friends for life. Other Field Spaniels can be quite the opposite and think everyone is their friend and that the new people would love nothing better than having a field spaniel in their lap.

Although Field Spaniels are a versatile breed they do require training. In order to have a well behaved pet and family member obedience training is a must! In addition to obedience classes field spaniels require a lot of socialization as puppies so that they can be well adjusted pets. Field spaniels need to live in the home as to be close to their families. They do not do well living in a kennel or backyard.

Feel free to take a look around and see what Fields can do. If you have any questions or comments feel free to contact us at Killara Field Spaniels.

News Flash 2011!