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Psst! The Field Spaniel is one of the sporting world's best-kept secrets. Hidden under a noble and beautiful exterior is a loving, funny companion and a skilled, intelligent hunter. Part of this breed's lack of fame is due to the extremely low number registered in the U.S. every year'less than two hundred. Originally bred in England as a medium-sized, yet substantial, hunting spaniel, this dog would enthusiastically work all day in heavy brush or in water. The Field Spaniel remains an excellent working spaniel that is always impatient to wet down its webbed feet. Nowadays, though, it is more often found in its favorite place, with its family. Whether at home or in the field, this breed needs to be useful and can also excel at jobs such as obedience, therapy, tracking and agility. The silky, glossy coat is flat or slightly wavy, with long feathering on the ears, legs, underbody and under the tail. The Field Spaniel comes in black, liver and golden liver, all of which may be solidly colored or bi-colored (roaned or ticked), with or without tan markings. Weekly brushing keeps the coat shiny and tangle-free, but some trimming of the hair between the footpads and inside the ears may also be needed. The sturdy, well-balanced Field Spaniel averages 18 inches tall at the shoulders and usually weighs 40 to 55 pounds. Although the Field Spaniel is wary of strangers and will bark an alarm, it is affectionate with its family and a good companion for children and other animals. Early socialization and training are essential for this breed, whose personality may range from reserved and attentive to devilish and independent.