When presented to the dog show judge, a well-groomed Field should look natural. Clippers are used only on the head and the front of the neck, and any other grooming is done with thinning shears and stripping knives. 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. 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. Confirmation is made via a blood test and treatment requires daily medication. 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.