Gundog Medium size 16-25 kg

Field Spaniel

A calm, affectionate spaniel that suits a family wanting a moderate gundog, though the coat and ears need routine care.

Quick overview

Medium
Size
16-25 kg, 43-46 cm
Moderate
Activity
Moderate; a good walk and play each day
Low
Alone-time tolerance
Prefers company; struggles with long days alone
Easy
Trainability
Eager and quick to learn
High
Coat care
Frequent brushing; coat needs real upkeep
Very good
Fit with kids
Good family dog with children
Very good
Other pets
Generally good with other dogs and pets
Light
Health burden
Dental Disease, Hip Dysplasia

The Field Spaniel typically weighs 16-25 kg, stands 43-46 cm, and lives 12-14 years.

Consider this breed if…

you want a calm, affectionate medium spaniel for family life,
you enjoy daily walks and a bit of training or fieldwork,
you can keep up with regular brushing and ear cleaning,
someone is usually home; this breed dislikes long solitude.

Do not consider this breed if…

the dog would regularly be alone 8 or more hours,
you want a wash-and-go coat with no grooming commitment,
you want a high-drive competitive sport dog,
you cannot commit to routine ear care on a drop-eared breed.

A typical day with a Field Spaniel

  1. 7:00 · Morning
    30-45 min walk with some sniffing
  2. 9:00 · Midmorning
    Rest near people, a chew
  3. 12:30 · Noon
    Short walk or garden play
  4. 16:00 · Afternoon
    Training or retrieve games, 10-15 min
  5. 18:30 · Evening
    Longer walk or field outing
  6. 21:00 · Night
    Settles calmly with the family

Temperament and training

Trainability High
Affection High
Sensitivity High
Independence Low
Prey drive Moderate
Guarding tendency Low
Common owner mistakes
Neglecting ear cleaning until infections set in · Leaving a people-focused dog alone too long · Heavy-handed training on a soft, sensitive breed

Family and environment

Kids Very good
Gentle and patient with considerate children.
Dogs Good
Sociable; fits multi-dog homes well.
Cats Conditional
Usually fine when raised together; some prey drive.
Apartment Conditional
Workable with daily walks and company.
House with a yard Suitable
A yard plus walks suits it best.
City Manages
Adapts with enough daily exercise.
Countryside Ideal
Space and fieldwork suit its origins.
Health data provided by RealVetCost
Overall health burden Light

Detailed health data - inheritance, prevalence, course, and typical treatment costs - lives in a separate expert database. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice - confirm any decision with your vet.

View the full health profile
Top health concerns
Dental Disease Very common; routine brushing and cleanings help
Hip Dysplasia Joint malformation; screen breeding stock
Chronic Ear Infections Drop ears trap moisture; keep them clean and dry
Progressive Retinal Atrophy Inherited retinal disease; DNA test available

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Field Spaniel cost in the US?
This is one of the rarer spaniels, so expect limited availability and possible waitlists. Puppies from reputable breeders commonly run $1,500-$2,500, and you may need to travel or wait for a litter. Across a 12-14 year life, food, grooming and routine vet care typically add $12,000-$18,000 or more, and a problem like hip disease or chronic ear infections can add thousands on top.
Are Field Spaniels good family dogs?
Yes. They are calm, affectionate and patient, generally very good with considerate children and other dogs. They bond closely with their people and do best in a home where someone is around most of the day rather than one empty for long stretches.
How much grooming does a Field Spaniel need?
A fair amount. The moderately long, feathered coat needs brushing several times a week to prevent mats, plus periodic trimming. The drop ears trap moisture, so regular cleaning is essential to head off infections.
How much exercise does a Field Spaniel need?
Moderate but real: a good daily walk plus some play, retrieve games or fieldwork. They are content and calm indoors once their needs are met, but they are working spaniels at heart and appreciate a job to do.