The Field Spaniel is 17–19 inches (43–48 cm) tall at the withers. Its long, silky coat comes in solid colours of liver and black. Tan points are allowed as is Roan, which is defined as a blend of both dark and white hairs without large patches of either colour. The Field Spaniel is somewhat longer than taller to a ratio of 7:8. The UK Kennel Club Breed Standard states Field Spaniels should weigh 18–25 kg (40–55 lb).
While the breed standard gives specific limits to the size of the dog, it seems that there is a vast difference between the European preference of size to the one in United States. While in US the idea is more or less "the smaller the better" in Europe, specially in the Northern Europe, the idea is "the bigger the better". However, the size difference between a male and female in Europe can be rather big. It remains the breeders and buyers consideration to decide which they like - or would they rather stay in the golden middle.
The Field Spaniel is a very social breed that can adapt to almost any lifestyle. Whilst they will coexist peacefully with dogs and cats, as a hunting dog, their instincts make them difficult around rabbits, mice, rats and similar animals. They can sometimes be difficult around birds but should adjust if socialised as a puppy. Fields Spaniels are a family breed and will show affection to all household members. However, they are naturally cautious of strangers making them an excellent watchdog. The Field Spaniel will not handle abusive situations and should never be treated as a guard dog.
Health:
Overall, Field Spaniels enjoy very good health. When health problems do occur the two most common health problems encountered are hip dysplasia and thyroid disease.
Of course, all dogs should be checked regularly by a veterinarian, kept up-to-date on all shots, including parvovirus, and kept on a heartworm preventative.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia, the most common skeletal defect in dogs of all breeds, is an inherited condition that results from a poor fit between the ball and socket apparatus of the hip joints. Symptoms range from none to severely crippling and there is no cure. All Field Spaniels, but especially those used for breeding, should have their hips x-rayed.
Thyroid disease
Thyroid disease is not a life threatening condition, nor does it necessarily result in loss of quality of life. Symptoms can include weight gain, lethargy, poor coat, and/or scaly skin. Confirmation is made via a blood test and treatment requires daily medication.
Other conditions
Other conditions that occur occasionally in Fields are Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Sub-Aortic Stenosis (SAS). PRA is an incurable disorder that leads to blindness. Once again all Fields, but especially those used for breeding, should have a yearly eye exam by a canine ophthalmologist. SAS is a hereditary condition that causes the sudden death of a puppy or young dog; any Fields used for breeding should be examined and declared clear by a competent veterinarian.
Ectropion, or loose eyelids, and the much less common entropion, in which the eyelid is turned in towards the eyeball, may also occur. If severe either condition might require surgery.
