There are 2 breeds of cocker spaniels, the English Cocker Spaniel and the American Cocker Spaniel. The term “cocker” comes from the dog’s use in hunting woodcocks.
Area of Origin
Spain
Breed Birthday
Mentioned in 14th century writings
Breed Type
Sporting
Temperament
Gentle, smart, happy
Characteristics
Cocker Spaniels are beloved companions for many families. They are beautiful to look at and have compliant, cheerful dispositions. They love to snuggle and please their humans as well as run and play with kids.
Cocker Spaniels are highly sensitive, so they do best in a calm, relaxed environment. It is best to wait until children are a little older before introducing a Cocker Spaniel into the home as they may have a hard time adjusting to very young children. They do not tolerate being left alone very well; they are prone to worry or even panic when left alone.
Cocker Spaniels are very affectionate, friendly dogs. They interact well with other dogs as long as they were socialized when they were young. These energetic sporting dogs love daily walks and active playtime.
Cocker Spaniels are considered small-to-medium sized dogs; they weigh 20-30 lbs. They have a medium-length silky coat, which can be wavy or flat. There is a wide variety of coat colors, from solid black and other colors, and mixed coloration. If not black, many range from light cream to dark red, including brown and brown with tan points. Some Spaniels have large areas of white with another color.
Related Breeds
Field Spaniel, Irish Water Spaniel, Sussex Spaniel, Welsh Springer Spaniel, American Water Spaniel, Clumber Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel
Grooming Needs
Cocker Spaniels have medium-long hair and need very frequent grooming, with daily maintenance of brushing, ear and eye cleanings. Professional grooming is required every 4-6 weeks.
Trainability
Cocker Spaniels are easily trained as companions and athletes.
Ideal House Type
Cocker Spaniels can adapt well to city and apartment living. Their quiet, calm demeanor make them a good candidate for city-dwelling.
History
The American Cocker Spaniel descended from the English Cocker Spaniel, which were brought to America during the latter part of the 17th century. Some historians believe they came over on the Mayflower Ship. U.S. hunters took to the smaller American Cocker Spaniel due to their ability to hunt quail and other small bird game.
The American Cocker Spaniel was recognized as a separate breed from the English Cocker Spaniel in 1946.
Good to Know
Cocker Spaniels love to have fun! They do not make the best guard dogs as they just love everyone. Cocker Spaniels are known for their excessive barking, especially if kept indoors all day.
Health & Care
Male Cocker Spaniels reach 14.5 – 15.5 inches tall and weigh 25-30 lbs. Females are 13.5 – 14.5 inches tall and weigh in at 20 – 25 lbs. Their life expectancy is 10-15 years.
Major health problems Cocker Spaniels tend to develop can include:
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Cataracts
- Patellar luxation
- Glaucoma
- Elbow dysplasia
- Gastric torsion
Common minor health issues that Cocker Spaniels tend to present include:
- Cardiomyopathy
- Ectropion
- Urinary stones
- Otitus externa
- Canine hip dysplasia
- Hypothyroidism
- Seborrhea
- Phosphofructokinase deficiency (which can lead to anemia)
- Entropion
- Cherry eye
- Liver disease
- Allergies
- Congestive heart failure
Personality
The Cocker Spaniel is a very loving and pleasant animal. Cocker Spaniels have a warm temperament and a distinctive look. They are social dogs that need human companionship. Cocker Spaniels should be kept indoors close to the family. They enjoy being indoors but love – and need – a daily walk.
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