Description:
The English Cocker Spaniel is larger than its cousin, the American Cocker Spaniel, and the two are separate dog breeds. This irresistible dog has a good hunting dog nose and loves to be busy – especially walking and hiking. The English Cocker is a beautiful spaniel that is a popular show dog. This Cocker’s coat is medium-long, silky and flat with feathering on the ears, legs, chest and belly. This breed’s coat can be of various solid colours such as red, black, tan and blue merle; and multiple colours such as white and orange. English Cockers are approximately 15 to 17 inches tall at shoulder height and weigh from 25 to 35 pounds. English Cockers are members of the American Kennel Club (AKC) Sporting Dog Group. See additional information on
choosing a Cocker Spaniel.
History:
The English Cocker is descended from the Spanish hunting dogs. This Cocker gets its name from being a popular English hunting dog specializing in the woodcock, a game bird. The English Cocker was the most popular dog in England by the 1930’s and has been a popular show dog in the U.S. The English Cocker was ranked 75th out of 154 dog breeds in 2004 AKC registrations.
Temperament:
The English Cocker is happy, playful and eager to please. This breed is an excellent bird dog and retriever but is also a delightful family companion. The English Cocker likes lots of exercise and does well walking and hiking with an active family. This tail-wagging Spaniel has a wonderful sense of humour and loves everybody. The English Cocker does well with children and gets along with other pets. Do not let children get too rough with this Spaniel as it will let them use him as a toy. This breed is easy to train because it always wants to please its master. Although the English Cocker gets along well with strangers, it makes a good, if somewhat barky, watchdog. The excessive barking can be minimized through early socialization and puppy training. This breed is entirely suitable for novice or first time dog owners.
Exercise:
This English Cocker needs and appreciates regular exercise because it is a hunting dog breed. This Spaniel is suited for apartment living and can even adapt to being left alone during the day if it is walked both morning and evening.
Grooming:
You will have to brush and comb this Spaniel regularly and keep its ears from getting matted with food from its bowl. This breed’s coat gets into tangles very easily and they need to be combed out. This Cocker’s ears should be cleaned regularly and the excess hair removed. This English Cocker will need regular trimming and a professional groomer will probably recommend a short belly cut to reduce the maintenance of a longer cut.
Health Considerations:
English Cockers can live from 12 to 15 years. This breed can be prone to ear infections and eye problems as well as kidney disease.
Top
