Rarer than its spaniel cousins, the Field Spaniel was developed in nineteenth-century England, where it was first exaggerated into a long, low, all-black show dog before being rebuilt in the mid-twentieth century as a balanced hunter. Today's dog is a solid, medium-sized spaniel built for endurance in heavy cover and water, with a silky, water-repellent coat in black, liver or roan, long feathered ears and a gentle, grave expression.
Field Spaniels are often described as docile, sensitive and fun-loving, with an independent streak and a strong attachment to their people. Many are a little reserved at first meeting before warming up. They suit adopters who want a steady companion that still enjoys real exercise, swimming and nose work, and who are comfortable with regular brushing and trimming. Because the breed is uncommon, most adoptable dogs come through breed rescue rather than general shelters.