Field Spaniel health: what owners should know

The small gene pool behind the modern breed makes health screening especially important. Hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, ear infections, and eye conditions including progressive retinal atrophy and some eyelid problems have been reported. Responsible breeders hip score parents, have eyes examined and often test thyroid function; in the UK they can also check the inbreeding coefficient of a planned litter through the Kennel Club.

At home, keep ears clean and dry, keep weight down and exercise sensibly. See your vet for head shaking, a smelly or red ear, weight gain with a thinning coat and low energy, stiffness after rest, or any sign your dog is struggling to see in dim light.