The Pet Atlas

Breed Dogs Sporting

Field Spaniel

Balanced, dark-coated spaniel with composed calm

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
Medium
Exercise
Medium
Mental stimulation
High
Trainability
High
Vocality
Medium
Health sensitivity
High
Grooming
Medium
Shedding
Medium
Temperature sensitivity
Medium

Context & compatibility

Size
Medium
Lifespan
12–13 years
Body weight
35–50 lb
Height
17–19 in
Apartment suitability
Less Suited

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Want steady sporting energy without constant chaos every day
  • Like gentle training and a predictable rhythm most weeks

Not ideal

  • Prefer a mostly hands-off household
  • Prefer very low activity and minimal daily engagement

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Quietly active—steady worker energy rather than nonstop fireworks. Many are content with consistent outdoor time and scent-based exploring, then settle well at home.

Handling & social style

Loyal and gentle, sometimes cautious with new people until they’ve watched for a bit. Does best when introductions are relaxed and not rushed.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

The Field Spaniel is steady, affectionate, and quietly sporty—often calmer than the bouncier spaniels but still happiest with regular activity and engagement.

Environment & space

Works well in smaller homes if daily walks and enrichment are reliable. They tend to thrive with a calm household rhythm.

Daily routine

Walks plus sniff games and moderate play, with short training sessions to keep manners polished.

Health sensitivities

Ear care and weight stability are practical themes; fitness supports long-term comfort.

Grooming / coat

Moderate grooming—regular brushing and occasional trims.

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

England

Background

Developed in England through the 1800s as a practical flushing and retrieving dog, the Field Spaniel was meant to be useful and athletic in the field. It wasn’t built as a purely decorative companion, even as show styles became popular. Many today still carry that outdoorsy, nose-driven base with a steadier pace than the most turbo spaniels. In modern homes, they often thrive with regular outdoor routines and calm structure.