Border Terrier vs Field Spaniel

Terrier · Small vs Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Field Spaniel is the larger breed at 35–50 lbs (males) vs 13–15.5 lbs for the Border Terrier.
  • The Border Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorder TerrierField Spaniel
Group
TerrierSporting
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
EnglandEngland
Height (male)
13–15"18"
Height (female)
13–15"17"
Weight (male)
13–15.5 lbs35–50 lbs
Weight (female)
11.5–14 lbs35–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
wirehairedlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Border Terrier

The Border Terrier is an affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered fox-hunting terrier from the English-Scottish border. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–15.5 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, intelligent, even-tempered.

About the Field Spaniel

The Field Spaniel is a sensitive, fun-loving, affectionate British spaniel — rare flushing breed, taller than a Cocker. Originally from England, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 35–50 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as sensitive, fun-loving, affectionate.

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Border Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Heart problems

Field Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Ear infections