Field Spaniel Puppy Checklist

Before Puppy Comes Home

What do you need before bringing home a Field Spaniel puppy?

Last updated October 8, 2026

Before your Field Spaniel puppy arrives, confirm PRA DNA test and CAER ophthalmology exam documentation from both parents, and enroll in pet insurance before the first vet visit. Eye health is the primary breed-specific concern — PRA causes progressive blindness, and ectropion/entropion may require surgical correction. Insurance active before the first vet visit preserves full coverage for these conditions if they develop.

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Health Documentation to Confirm Before Purchase

• PRA DNA test — both parents clear; this eliminates progressive retinal atrophy from DNA-tested parents
• CAER ophthalmology exam — annual eye exams for breeding dogs; confirms structural eye health
• OFA hip certification for both parents

Essential Gear Checklist

• Medium crate (30–36 inch with divider for growth)
• Dog bed
• Stainless steel bowls
• Flat collar + ID tag (engrave immediately on arrival)
  One option: GoTags Personalized Stainless Steel ID Tag on Amazon. An engraved stainless steel ID tag; you pick the shape and the lines of text at checkout. Put a phone number that's actually answered on it, and update the engraving if you move.
• Harness for walks
• 4–6 ft leash
  One option: Joytale Double-Handle Leash (6 ft) on Amazon. A 6-foot nylon leash with a padded second handle near the clip for close control, plus reflective stitching for dark walks. The 1-inch webbing suits medium and large dogs; it can feel heavy on a young puppy.
• Slicker brush, pin brush, and wide-tooth metal comb
  One option: Chris Christensen Big G Slicker Brush on Amazon. The Big G has long, angled pins set in a flexible cushioned pad, built for working through double, long and curly coats. Use light strokes; slicker pins can scratch skin if pressed hard.
• Veterinary ear cleaning solution and cotton balls — begins week one
  One option: Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser on Amazon. A gentle, low-pH, alcohol-free ear cleanser made for routine cleaning and drying of the ear canal. Routine cleaning only; if the ear is red, smelly or painful, see your vet before putting anything in it.
• High-value training treats
  One option: Blue Buffalo Bits Soft Training Treats, Beef (19 oz) on Amazon. Soft, bite-size training treats with real beef as the first ingredient, small enough for rapid repetitions. Keep treats to about 10% of daily calories.
• Retrieve toys, tug toys, chew toys
• Enzymatic cleaner
  One option: Nature's Miracle Dog Stain & Odor Remover (32 oz) on Amazon. An enzymatic stain and odor cleaner that keeps breaking down urine and other organic messes after you apply it. Spot-test on carpet or upholstery first.

First Week Priorities

What should the first week with a Field Spaniel puppy look like?

Insurance Before the First Vet Visit

Enroll in pet insurance on arrival day. For the Field Spaniel, look for a policy that covers ophthalmologic conditions (eye surgery, specialist consultations) without breed-specific exclusions. Read the fine print — some policies have sublimits for eye conditions. Enrolling before the first vet visit ensures the broadest coverage.

First Vet Visit (Within 48–72 Hours)

• Full physical exam including eye exam
• Vaccine schedule verification and continuation
• Parasite prevention discussion
• Ask whether an ophthalmology referral is appropriate given the puppy's eye exam findings and parental DNA test status
• Ear exam — establish a clean baseline
• Microchip if not done by breeder

Ear Cleaning — Starts Now

Begin weekly ear cleaning from the first week. The purpose at this stage is building handling tolerance, not treating any problem. Field Spaniels that grow up with regular ear handling accept the process easily as adults; those that don't can resist it strongly. Weekly cleaning sessions from puppyhood make a permanent difference in adult manageability.

Finding a Groomer

Identify a groomer experienced with spaniel coats before the puppy needs its first professional trim at 10–14 weeks. Ask about experience with Field Spaniels, Cocker Spaniels, or similar silky-coated spaniels. A brief familiarization visit before the first real grooming appointment reduces the puppy's stress response significantly.

Socialization and Training

Socialization Priorities for Field Spaniel Puppies

Socialization Window: 8–16 Weeks

Field Spaniels are gentle, sensitive dogs — positive early socialization shapes a confident, well-adjusted adult. This is a breed that can become shy or anxious without adequate early exposure. Prioritize:

• Varied people: different ages, appearances, children, visitors to the home
• Novel environments: different surfaces, sounds, settings
• Controlled dog interactions: puppy classes are valuable for both socialization and obedience foundation
• Handling: ears, paws, eyes — especially important given the breed's grooming and health monitoring requirements

Carry the puppy in high disease-risk areas before vaccinations are complete. The socialization window is too brief to sacrifice.

Training Approach

Field Spaniels are sensitive dogs that respond strongly to the tone and manner of training. Harsh corrections produce anxiety and shutdown; positive reinforcement produces engaged, willing learners. This is not a breed for forceful training methods. Start basic obedience from the first week with food rewards and praise. A puppy class by 10–12 weeks provides structure and socialization simultaneously.

Eye Monitoring — Ongoing

Make a habit of observing the dog's vision in varying light conditions. Note any reluctance to navigate stairs in dim light, any squinting, cloudiness, or eye discharge. These observations at any life stage warrant veterinary evaluation. Early detection of progressive conditions allows for better management planning.