Miniature American Shepherd vs Field Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
92% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Field Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Field Spaniel: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Field Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Field Spaniel5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Field Spaniel4/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Field Spaniel4/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
Field Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Ear Infections: Due to long ears
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Heart Issues: Various cardiac concerns
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Pros & Cons Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
Field Spaniel
Pros
Gentle temperament
Good with families
Sporting abilities
Moderate exercise needs
Cons
Regular grooming required
Can be reserved with strangers
Prone to ear infections
Needs consistent training
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Field Spaniel Fun Fact
Field Spaniels were once bred to be so long and low they nearly lost their sporting abilities!
Heritage & Purpose
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
Field Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in England during the 19th century for retrieving game birds from fields and water. Their specialized skills made them valuable hunting companions for sportsmen.
Special Considerations
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
Field Spaniel
Weekly grooming sessions needed for coat maintenance. Regular ear cleaning essential. Moderate exercise requirements must be met for optimal physical and mental health.