The Field Spaniel is a medium sized dog and is closely related to the more popular Springer Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel breeds. These dogs were initially bred for hunting and as a result they require rigorous daily exercise. The Field Spaniel is a fun-loving, affectionate, and loyal dog with a soft temperament. In order to identify a Field Spaniel, you will need to examine the dog’s coat and other physical characteristics. You can also inquire about the breed or have the dog’s DNA tested in order determine if it is a Field Spaniel.
Steps
Method 1
Method 1 of 4:
Examining the Dog’s Coat
-
Look at the dog’s fur. Field Spaniels have a thick, water-repellent coat. The hair is moderately long and can be straight or slightly curly. The coat also has a bit of feathering on the chest, underbody, backs of the legs, and rear end. [1] X Research source
-
Notice the colour and markings. Field Spaniels can come in a variety of different colours including black, reddish brown, golden brown, speckled, or any of these colours with additional tan points. Some Field Spaniels also have a bit of white on the chest and/or throat.Advertisement
-
Determine if the dog sheds. The Field Spaniel will shed moderately throughout the year. This can be managed with weekly brushing. Unlike other spaniel breeds, the Field Spaniel’s coat is much easier to maintain and they do not need to visit the groomer on a regular basis.Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 4:
Looking at Other Physical Characteristics
-
Measure the dog’s size. The Field Spaniel is a medium-sized dog and should be 17 to 18 inches (43-46 cm) tall at the shoulders. The dog should also be slightly longer than it is tall. These dogs typically weigh somewhere between 35 and 50 pounds (16-22 kg).
-
Look for long, dangling ears. Field Spaniels, like most Spaniels, have long wide ears that can reach the end of the muzzle. The ears hang down close to the dog’s head and they have a dangling soft look to them. The hair on the ears is usually wavy.
-
Examine the dog’s facial features. Field Spaniels have a long and lean muzzle with a large brown or black nose. Their eyes are large and almond-shape and are typically dark. Field Spaniels with a lighter coat colour will also have lighter coloured eyes.
-
Compare it to other Spaniel breeds. The Field Spaniel is very closely related to the Springer Spaniel and the Cocker Spaniel. As a result, they can easily be confused. In order to help with identification, it is important to know that the Field Spaniel is generally smaller than the Springer Spaniel and larger than the Cocker Spaniel.
- Springer Spaniels weigh between 50 and 55 pounds (22-25 kg) and are 19-21 inches (48-53 cm) tall.
- Cocker Spaniels weigh between 15 and 30 pounds (7-14 kg) and are 14-16 inches (36-38 cm) tall. [2] X Research source
- If you're still not sure, compare photos of Cocker and Springer Spaniels to the dog in front of you so you can see any similarities or differences.
Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 4:
Inquiring About the Breed
-
Ask the owner. If you see a dog that you think might be a Field Spaniel and are curious about the breed, approach the owner and ask. For example, you could say something like “That is a beautiful dog. Is it a Field Spaniel by any chance?” Alternatively you could say “What kind of dog is that? I really like its colouring.”
- Most dog owners will be happy to tell you about their dog and the breed.
-
Ask your veterinarian. If you are unsure of your dog’s breed or lineage, ask your veterinarian to help you identify the breed. Veterinarians will be familiar with most dog breeds and will be able to examine the physical characteristics of the dog to help with identifying the breed.
-
Talk with the breeder. If you are purchasing a Field Spaniel from a breeder, you should talk with the breeder about the puppy’s parentage and lineage to make sure that you are getting a purebred dog. A licensed breeder will be able to provide you with paperwork that proves both parents are recognized as Field Spaniels by the American Kennel Club.
-
Use a dog breed identification app. There are a number of applications available that can identify different dog breeds. In order to use the app, upload a photo of a dog and the app will identify the breed. [3] X Research source
- For example, try using the Microsoft app called Fetch!
- These apps are not always 100% accurate.
Advertisement
Method 4
Method 4 of 4:
Testing the DNA of the Dog
-
Purchase a DNA test kit online. Search Google for a “dog DNA test kit.” These kits cost approximately $80 to $100 and can be ordered online.
-
Read and follow the instructions. Once you receive the DNA test kit in the mail, open the package and carefully read all of the instructions. The instructions will provide you with steps on how to take a DNA swab and then how to return the results to the lab for testing.
- Each kit is designed to test the DNA of only one dog.
-
Swab the dog’s cheek. The kit will likely come with two swabs. They are both to be used on the same dog. Open your dog’s mouth and rub the swab across the inside of the dog’s cheek. Do the same thing with each of the swabs.
-
Mail the kit. Place the swabs into the plastic baggies provided. Then place them in the pre-paid return envelope or box. Then mail the results to the lab for testing.
-
Read the results. Approximately three weeks after you complete the test, you will receive detailed DNA results. Your dog’s DNA will be compared to approximately 200 different breeds. If you have a Field Spaniel, a DNA test will easily be able to identify this breed.
- The results can even test to see if your dog is a mixed-breed that is part Field Spaniel.
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
Advertisement
Tips
-
Thanks
Advertisement
References
About this article
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 10,198 times.
Advertisement
100%
of readers found this article helpful
.
Click a star to add your vote
% of people told us that this article helped them.
