The Field Spaniel originated in the United Kingdom during the 19th century. During this time, spaniels were divided by type, not breed, and it was common for a large springer spaniel and a small "cocking" spaniel to be born to the same litter. The popularity of dog shows skyrocketed in the mid-19th century, leading to the division of spaniels to their own breeds. The Field Spaniel was very popular in these dog shows, and many breeders selected for exaggerated characteristics in their dogs which introduced many health problems into the breed. The health problems in addition to the show Field Spaniels' inability to function as gun dogs almost brought the breed to extinction. Luckily, enthusiasts of the breed took the initiative to rehabilitate it, bringing the Field Spaniel back. Today, it is still a very rare breed, even in the United Kingdom.