English Cocker Spaniel

English Cocker Spaniel breed head image

English Cocker Spaniel breed is originally from United Kingdom. Also known as Cocker, Merry Cocker Woker.

Table of contents:
  1. Breed information
  2. English Cocker Spaniel breed image
  3. Pros and Cons
  4. Breed Characteristics
  5. More about breed
  6. Video about English Cocker Spaniel
  7. Questions and answers

Breed information

Popularity
  • 40 of 199 (2022)
  • 43 of 197 (2021)
  • 47 of 195 (2020)
Name English Cocker Spaniel
Other names Cocker, Merry Cocker Woker
From country United Kingdom
Standards
Breed groups Sporting (AKC),Gun Dog (UKC)
Type Purebred
Size Medium
Life span 12 - 14 years
Temperament affectionate,faithful,friendly,intelligent,playful,quiet,trainable
Height female 14-16 inches (36-41 cm)
Height male 15-17 inches (38-43 cm)
Weight female 26-32 pounds (12-15 kg)
Weight male 28-34 pounds (13-16 kg)
Colors black,black & tan,blue roan,golden,liver,red
Litter Size 6 - 8 puppies
Puppy Price Average $800 - $1200 USD

English Cocker Spaniel breed image

Breed English Cocker Spaniel image

English Cocker Spaniel Pros and Cons

There are 4 pros and 3 cons of owning English Cocker Spaniel.

Pros 👍 Cons 👎
Kid-friendly Makes a lot of noise
Dog-friendly Needs a lot of exercises
Normally doesn't have problems with health Not hypoallergenic
High intelligence

Breed Characteristics

Sensitivity Level
Low-sensitive
High-sensitive

High-sensitivity dogs can take some of the owner's actions close to the heart. If you shout too loudly at the dog, ignore the dog or your kid pulls its tail It may take offense. Low sensitivity dogs or "tolerant" dogs take it easier. If you are an emotional person, too busy, sometimes ignore the dog, have young kids, then we don't recommend taking a high-sensitivity dog.

Kid-Friendly
No-Kid-Friendly
Kid-Friendly

Kid-friendly dogs are tolerant to kid's behavior like hugs and attempts to saddle and other "games". It behaves kindly to kids. A no-kid-friendly dog doesn't tolerate such an attitude. You need to know that it's possible to teach dogs of any breed to be kid-friendly. But anyway You mustn't leave the kid and dog alone!

Dog Friendly
Low-friendly
High-Friendly

Dog-friendly characteristics highly depend on dog socialization, breed isn't the only factor. Dogs with high friendliness will play with other dogs or just be calm. Low-friendly dogs will try to fight, bark or run away.

Friendly Toward Strangers
Not-friendly
Everyone Is My Best Friend

The stranger-friendly dog will show nice behavior when your friends or visitors come to you. No stranger-friendly breed can be aggressive and attack them. Others will be shy or even afraid of your guests. But anyway if your dog has got good socialization lessons It will be stranger-friendly no matter what breed. And also if you have found that breed has a five-star rating of Stranger-friendly and you are not going to train this dog It can be aggressive to your visitors.

Amount Of Shedding
No Shedding
Hair Everywhere

Dogs tend to shed, and it is completely normal for a certain amount of dog hair to end up either on your clothes or inside your house. Importantly, the amount of shedding differs from breed to breed. For example, some dogs shed throughout the year, others shed at key seasonal times, and some may do a little bit of both. However, some dogs barely shed at all. Depending on your preferences and standards, be sure to pick a dog breed with this in mind.

Easy To Groom
Easy
Hard

It is important to remember that some dog breeds require more maintenance than others. While some can be brushed on the go, other breeds may benefit from regular clipping, grooming, and bathing. Assessing how much time and money you are willing to spend on maintenance needs is certainly something to consider.

General Health
Need more attention to health
Healthy as an ox

Some dogs are victims of irresponsible breeding practices, and this may cause them health problems down the road. One example of this is hip dysplasia, which is a genetic health problem. However, keep in mind that not every dog will develop these issues, although they are more likely to. If you decide to adopt a puppy, it is best to find out about any genetic illness that may be associated with its breed. For more information, you may also wish to consult with a shelter or rescue that can supply you with the knowledge of the physical health of the puppy’s parents or siblings.

Easy To Train
Self-Willed
Eager to Please

Interestingly, some dog breeds are easier to train than others. For example, select breeds may form a greater number of associations between words (“stay”), actions (staying), and outcomes (receiving a reward). Others may take more time and attention to train. Dogs are extremely intelligent but may want to know what is in it for them if they comply with your request. This is where games and rewards may come in handy.

Intelligence
Low
High

Certain dog breeds are adept at specific jobs. For example, a dog that is bred for its intelligence, concentration, and quick decision-making may be used to successfully herd livestock and need more mental stimulation than a dog that is bred to be a runner and needs more physical exercise. Knowing your dog’s needs helps you know how to keep them properly engaged and out of mischief (such as chewing and digging). Examples include interactive toys and activities, including obedience training for those who need mental engagement, as well as search and rescue activities for those who are meant to be more active and employ their keen senses.

Tendency To Bark Or Howl
Only To Alert
Avid singer

It is important to note that vocalization differs among dog breeds. Some are more vocal, and all of them bark and howl with different pitches. One example to consider is a hound. Would the pitch of their barking and howling get on your nerves or would you think it was somewhat musical? Is your dog breed notorious for hunting and would constantly chase and howl at nearby wildlife? If your dog is more alert and makes a good watchdog, will it bark at everyone it meets? These are some elements to consider when choosing a dog breed, as well as whether you have neighbors, or any noise restrictions are in place.

Energy Level
Couch Potato
High Energy

Dogs who have a lot of energy may have been bred for certain jobs, including herding livestock or retrieving game for hunters. Therefore, they will need quite a bit of interaction and exercise. They will be more energetic and probably engage in activities like playing, running, tumbling, and checking out new smells and sights. Conversely, other breeds may be low-energy and like to lounge on the couch with you, nap, and watch Netflix. Whichever dog breed you choose, simply consider what your own activity level and lifestyle are like and pick a dog breed that suits it.

Exercise Needs
Low
Need a lot

Different dog breeds require different levels of exercise. Some may be content with a leisurely stroll in the evening, and other breeds may want to make several vigorous laps around the block. Depending on what they were bred to do, such as hunt or herd, their energy levels will match those activities. Dogs who are high-energy and do not have enough exercise might gain weight and engage in behaviors such as digging, chewing, and barking. High-energy dogs will likely match the best with individuals who are active and love the outdoors or are interested in training their dog for competitions.

Potential For Playfulness
Only When You Want To Play
Non-Stop

Personalities of dog breeds vary widely. Some are always up for playing and stay in a puppy state of mind. Other breeds tend to be more serious and enjoy their downtime. It is best for individuals to consider whether the thought of a playful puppy is exciting or whether they mainly just want a couch companion. Other factors to consider include whether you have children or additional pets. Another option is adopting a dog that is a bit older and less demanding but still enjoys interacting and playing.

History Breed

According to history, Cocker Spaniel originated in Spain and got their name "Cocker" because they were used to hunt on the bird called woodcock.

The Medium-sized, active and punchy breed became the perfect gun and spotting "helpers" usually used for fur and feather in the flushing games.

Temperament

Today, Cocker Spaniel is also a loyal and affectionate companion for people. Once you have a Cocker Spaniel you will never want to have any other breed of dog.

Cocker Spaniels are perfect watchdogs: they will always notify you of a stranger approaching your house. However, if you know this person, a dog will be very friendly and extremely loyal towards a "recent" unknown man.

Cocker Spaniels are cheerful dogs who will be nice companions for your kid to play with. If you buy a Cocker for your child, there will be a lot of funny and active games. At the same time, Cocker Spaniels are very gentle with children.

Some Cocker Spaniels will be a little bit stubborn, but, however, Cocker is an easy breed to train and teach.

Recommendation: start to teach your Cocker basic commands since the very puppyhood: the dog should definitely know the commands: ‘Sit!’, ‘Come!’, ‘Stop!’, ‘Don’t do it!’ Since a dog is very active, it would be difficult to control it without these commands.

Sometimes, Cocker Spaniels can be a little bit timid, that is why it is important to socialize your puppy in the ‘society’ of other dogs to make it happy and self-confident in the future.

Characteristics

Cocker Spaniels are medium-sized dogs with sturdy and compact bodies. Its tail (docked or long) is always wagging whether he’s following a scent or checking to see what’s under the couch. Cocker Spaniel has a refined head with big pendant ears and round dark eyes.

Cocker Spaniels are extremely active dogs with medium to high endurance.

Their coats are very silky and smooth, however, long hairs always need a lot of grooming. Cockers shed just moderately. The dogs may be of various colors: liver, black, black and tan, golden, red, chocolate and any other combination of these colors and patterns that make Cockers’ coats very interesting.

Health Facts

In general, Cockers are healthy dogs, however, as with every purebred, these dogs have some diseases and conditions that they are prone to:

  • Skin problems (allergies, atopic dermatitis).
  • Ear problems (yeast infections, ear mites).
  • Eye problems (Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), glaucoma, cataracts, ‘cherry eye’).

Other health issues:

  • Hip Dysplasia;
  • Familial Nephropathy (FN);
  • Immune mediated thrombocytopenia(IMT);
  • Pancreatitis;
  • Heart and liver problems;
  • Kidney failure;
  • Patellar luxation.
Be careful! Do not forget to visit your vet at least once in 3 months and make a self-check twice a week.

Diet

You should take care of its daily diet and feeding schedule. Remember, that dog nutrition should be reach in protein, complex carbohydrates and fiber: the best choice for a Cocker Spaniel is natural food of high quality. The fact, that Cockers are prone to obesity, is also very essential.

Warning! As Cockers are prone to food allergies, try to find good hypoallergenic dog food.

Grooming

If you have a ‘working’ dog you should bath and brush the dog more often than the Cocker, that is stay-at-home.

Advice: we recommend you to make grooming sessions: ears and eyes cleaning, nails clipping, teeth checking, bath and brushing.

We hope, that this article will give you some essential information on the breed.

Video about English Cocker Spaniel breed

Questions and answers about English Cocker Spaniel

Is English Cocker Spaniel good with kids?

Yes, English Cocker Spaniel's typical characteristics indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes it a family pet. But anyway You mustn't leave the kid and dog alone!

What is the life expectancy of a English Cocker Spaniel?

The average life expectancy of a English Cocker Spaniel is between 12 - 14 years.

How many dogs are born in a English Cocker Spaniel litter?

If your English Cocker Spaniel is pregnant, it is safe to assume that litter can have anywhere from 6 to 8 puppies.

English Cocker Spaniel Prices: How much do they cost?

If you purchase English Cocker Spaniel from a breeder it can be much more expensive than a shelter. A purebred English Cocker Spaniel costs between US$ 800 and US$ 1200 from a reputable breeder, but there are several advantages to doing so. First, a breeder will usually allow you to meet the parents to get a good idea about what the puppy will look like and behave. You will also see if the parents have any health problems. Breeders will also supply you with paperwork that documents your pet’s lineage.

Is English Cocker Spaniel popular in USA?

English Cocker Spaniel is moderately popular purebred dog in the USA. English Cocker Spaniel have got #47 popularity rank in 2020, #43 in 2021 and #40 in 2022 by American Kennel Club (AKC).

Are English Cocker Spaniel hypoallergenic?

No, English Cocker Spaniel are not considered hypoallergenic dogs. If you are thinking about getting a English Cocker Spaniel and have allergies, it's important to spend time with the breed to see how you react before bringing one into your home. This can help you make an informed decision about whether a English Cocker Spaniel is the right pet for you, and if so, what steps you may need to take to manage any allergy symptoms.



References:
  1. https://www.akc.org
  2. FCI standard
  3. Kennel club standard
  4. Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/English_Cocker_Spaniel

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