If you’re looking for a family dog that is highly intelligent and eager to please, then the beautiful cocker spaniel might be the perfect breed for you! Carry on reading to find out more about this handsome breed.
Breed Snapshot
- Size: Medium-sized dog (11 – 14 kg)
- Coat: Moderate shedder. This breed has a double coat that needs trimming about every three months.
- Energy: This is a high-energy breed that thrives outdoors and is a member of the sporting group.
- Lifespan: 11 – 12 years
- Country of origin: Spain
- Breed type: There are two types of cocker spaniel: English and American. This breed is highly trainable, has a great temperament, and makes the perfect family pet.
- Other names: Cocker
- Great breed for: Any household, Families with children
What is a cocker spaniel?
The cocker spaniel originates from Spain and descends from the spaniel. It was originally bred to flush out game and then locate or retrieve it once it had been shot down by the hunter. These dogs have a strong work ethic and are always eager to please their owners. They are also friendly, easy to train, and an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. The name ‘cocker’ comes from the Woodstock bird that this breed used to flush out for the hunter.
What do cocker spaniels look like?
The cocker spaniel’s back slopes towards the tail, and this gives it a rather regal appearance. This breed has a square muzzle, round, graceful head, and long, feathered ears. The breed stands at around 34 to 41 cm and weighs approximately 11 – 14 kg. The American cocker spaniel is slightly smaller in size than the English version.
Cocker spaniels come in a range of colours that include black, black and white, liver, and gold.
What makes the cocker spaniel special?
Cocker spaniels have been used as drug and cancer detection dogs for a number of years, but now Crufts in the UK is launching a new trial using cocker spaniels to try and detect cancer in dog urine. If this is successful, it is hoped that it will help to detect canine bladder cancer. The friendly manner and excellent work ethic of these dogs makes them perfect for this type of work. They also make great therapy and service dogs.
How often do I need to groom my cocker spaniel?
The cocker spaniel has a double coat that consists of a soft undercoat with long, flat, silky hair on the top. The coat therefore needs daily grooming to keep it in good condition. Trimming will also be required about every three months and can be performed professionally – check out the petcloud.com.au website for more details on finding a dog grooming service near you.
Cocker spaniels are prone to ear infections, so it is important to check the ears regularly for any signs of infection. This breed also adores water and will find any excuse to dive right into any water areas it finds. It is therefore important to bathe these dogs regularly with a good pet shampoo to reduce the risk of them developing any allergies.
How often should I walk my cocker spaniel?
Cocker spaniels are full of energy and love being outdoors. They need to exercise up to an hour a day and get involved in interactive games to help with their mental stimulation. This breed should be exercised gently for the first six months of its life, but then it can go on long, brisk walks.
How do I train my cocker spaniel?
Training your cocker spaniel will be a rewarding experience because the breed is willing to learn and will respond well to positive reinforcement and obedience training. They are best socialised from an early age to ensure that they integrate well into family life and do not get scared easily by loud noises. Remember to check out petcloud.com.au for more information about training classes – follow the link to post a job!
Quickfire cocker spaniel questions
How long will my cocker spaniel live?
Cocker spaniels can live for around 11 – 12 years.
Can my cocker spaniel be left alone during the day?
Cocker spaniels do not like being left home alone. They love to be with their families and may suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for too long. It may be worth considering day care for your dog if it has to be left for long periods of time. Petcloud.com.au can help you to find the right place or person to look after your dog.
Are cocker spaniels ‘barkers’?
Cocker spaniels can bark quite a lot at times, so training should be given to try and calm the situation down.
What kind of health risks do cocker spaniels face?
Cocker spaniels can suffer from a range of health condition that include eye and ear problems.
Where can I get a cocker spaniel?
If you have now decided on this intelligent and energetic breed, you will obviously want to know where to get one from. It is important to find out where the best places are in your area for purchasing a cocker spaniel. Search to find reputable breeders and avoid buying from pet shops, puppy mills, or anywhere that does not allow you to be introduced to the puppy’s parents.
You can also take a look at the RSPCA website that will guide you on how to adopt a puppy or dog.
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