Field trials are unique sporting competitions. What other sport is open to both sexes of any age, professional or amateur, is growing in popularity, requires little personal fitness and receives…
Gundogs
Clumber spaniel: the Bentley of gundogs
Clumber spaniels are not often seen on a shooting day. But when they are they make an impression. If you use your clumber spaniel to pick up make sure you…
Gundog coat colour: does it matter?
Gundog coat colour is crucial to some when it comes to choosing a suitable gundog. Chocolate labradors have only recently rectified their reputation as being lazy and overweight and are…
Etiquette of picking-up on a shoot
The etiquette of picking-up on a shoot can be beset with problems. When should a gun send in their gundog? When should a picker-up keep still? The Field has tips…
Sealyham terrier: a real rat catcher
We want a sealyham terrier. Who doesn’t? These small, white ratters are full of pep, but when ratting with terriers, which terrier is top? The sealyham is definitely in with…
Retrievers. Is it time to change your labrador?
Retrievers don’t have to be labradors. The flatcoat was the Downton Abbey gundog and Edwardian gentleman’s favourite retriever. Every 10 years for the past four decades a friend has bought…
Teckels: the wire-haired dachshund is a sporting sausage dog
Teckels are small dogs with a big personality. Their mischievous and charming nature makes them one of the best country house dogs. And they can compete for prowess when ratting…
21 best crossbreed dogs
21 best crossbreed dogs for working in the field and at home. Your taste may run to the Downton Abbey gundog, or a labrador when breeding or choosing a puppy.…
Dog insurance
It pays to have dog insurance. Five years ago, on a bright spring morning, I met up with friends to walk our spaniels on Dunwich beach. My seven-year-old springer, Fleur,…
The Downton Abbey gundog
The Downton Abbey gundog - What would Lord Grantham have used as a gundog? A flatcoat or a labrador?