Did you know that Field Spaniels were once upon a time Britain’s most loved breed? Sadly, today they are among the rarest. This doesn’t diminish their appeal – Field Spaniels are well-known for their docile temperament, their silky coats, and their bounding energy. If you’re a dog lover considering this breed as a companion, their health is likely one of your top concerns. How healthy are Field Spaniels, you might be wondering? Let’s investigate.
Field spaniels are generally a healthy breed. They live an average of twelve to fourteen years, which is relatively long-lived in terms of dog years. However, like any breed, Field Spaniels are prone to specific health conditions. Being aware of these conditions will go a long way in ensuring your furry friend stays in robust health.
Let’s start with their iconic, luscious double coat. A common mistake made by prospective Field Spaniel owners is assumptions that this beautiful coat is maintenance free. Contrary to what you might think, their coat can trap dirt and parasites, which can lead to skin infections. To avoid this, their coats need regular brushing and grooming, preferably every two to three days.
The second health risk comes from their ears. See how they hang low and long? While these ears significantly contribute to their adorable look, they can create a warm, moist environment perfect for infections. Regular ear check-ups at your vet and at-home cleanings can help prevent painful infections.
While we’re talking about those precious ears, let’s segue into another health risk for Field Spaniels: Ear Hematomas. A hematoma is a pocket of blood that forms when a blood vessel bursts inside the ear flap, usually from violent head shaking or pawing. Hematomas demand immediate medical attention, but the good news is, if you keep those ears clean, you’ll considerably reduce this risk.
Next up, the eyes. Field Spaniels are predisposed to certain eye disorders such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). PRA is a degenerative eye disorder that eventually causes blindness. Sadly, there is no cure for PRA but regular check-ups and early diagnosis can help manage the condition, making life more comfortable for your spaniel.
In the list of potential health problems, an honorable mention goes to Hip Dysplasia, a condition to which Field Spaniels are moderately prone. This is an inherited condition that can lead to lameness and painful arthritis. Fortunately, reputable breeders nowadays test their breeding dogs to make sure they don’t carry the genes for hip dysplasia.
Good news though! Owning a Field Spaniel is not all doom and gloom. Apart from minor periodic checks and management, they are generally healthy dogs. It’s important to remember that with all dog breeds, the best preventative measure is a robust diet and plenty of exercises. Regular physical and mental stimulation can increase your spaniel’s lifespan and give them a more enriched life.
Looking for ways to help your Field Spaniel stay active? An ideal physical activity could be long walks in the woods, field activities, or even dog sports like agility training. Field Spaniels are also known for their great love of water, so swimming is an excellent activity for them too.
It’s crucial as a breed owner to keep up their vaccine schedule and regular vet check-ups. Good breeders will maintain these vaccinations and provide you with a current schedule, so remember to keep them updated.
In closing, owning a dog is a major commitment. So before going for a Field Spaniel, or any breed indeed, doing your research is paramount. While Field Spaniels are generally healthy dogs, they do require a level of time commitment for their grooming and exercise needs. Isn’t it worth it though, considering the joy and companionship they bring into our lives?
So, is a Field Spaniel a healthy dog? Yes, although every dog breed has its unique health challenges, Field Spaniels, when appropriately cared for, can live healthy and fulfilling lives. After all, being forewarned is being forearmed! Happy parenting!
