Cocker Spaniel

Alternative names: English Cocker Spaniel, American Cocker Spaniel

History of the breed

The Cocker Spaniel originated in Spain and was later refined in England and the United States into the two varieties we know today: the English Cocker Spaniel and the American Cocker Spaniel. Originally bred as a hunting dog, it specialized in tracking and retrieving birds, especially woodcocks. Its name, "Cocker," therefore comes from the English word "woodcock." Today, it is not only an excellent working dog but also a popular family pet.

Character and temperament

The Cocker Spaniel is a cheerful, affectionate, and energetic dog. It's sociable and friendly, making it easy on children, other dogs, and even cats. This breed is known for its playful and gentle nature, but also has a lively work ethic. Its intelligence and eagerness to learn make it easy to train and it enjoys mental challenges.

Physical characteristics

• Shoulder height:
  • English Cocker Spaniel: 38-43 cm
  • American Cocker Spaniel: 34-39 cm
• Weight: 9-16 kg
• Coat: Medium length, silky and wavy, with long feathering on the ears, legs and tail
• Colors: Solid (black, red, gold, chocolate) or multi-colored (black and white, brown and white, tricolor)
• Sizes for collars and harnesses:
  • Collar: Neck circumference 35-45 cm (size M)
  • Harness: Chest circumference 50-65 cm (size M/L)

Care and shedding

The Cocker Spaniel has a thick, silky coat that requires regular brushing to remove tangles and dirt. Weekly brushing is necessary, and professional grooming is recommended to keep the coat in good condition. This breed sheds moderately, but shedding can increase during the shedding season. Special attention should be paid to the long ears, which are prone to dirt and infection.

Movement and activity

The Cocker Spaniel is an energetic breed that needs plenty of daily exercise. Long walks, play sessions, and dog sports like obedience and agility help keep them physically and mentally stimulated. Their hunting instincts mean they enjoy tracking and retrieving, which is an excellent way to keep them active.

Barking

The Cocker Spaniel is an average barking dog. They may vocalize when excited or when they hear unfamiliar sounds, but they are generally not excessive barkers.

Good with kids?

This breed is ideal for families with children. The Cocker Spaniel is playful, gentle, and patient, making it a wonderful playmate. However, children must learn to respect its long ears and sensitive coat.

Health

Although the Cocker Spaniel is generally a healthy breed, it may be prone to:

• Ear infections due to the long, hanging ears
• Hip dysplasia
• Eye problems such as cataract and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
• Heart disease

The average life expectancy is 12-15 years.

Power supply

A balanced diet is essential for the Cocker Spaniel, especially because they tend to gain weight quickly. An adult dog eats an average of 200-400 grams of food per day, depending on their activity level and weight. Regularly checking for excess weight is important, as extra pounds can cause health problems.

Training and socialization

The Cocker Spaniel is a smart and eager-to-learn dog that enjoys working with its owner. It responds well to positive reinforcement and learns new commands quickly. Early socialization helps it become confident and sociable. This breed is sensitive to harsh treatment, so patience and consistent training are essential.

Suitability for owners

This breed is perfect for active families and individuals who want to spend a lot of time with their dog. The Cocker Spaniel is a good fit for both a house with a garden and an apartment, as long as it gets enough exercise. It's less suitable for people who spend long days away from home, as it needs plenty of attention and companionship.

Share your experience with us!

Do you own a Cocker Spaniel? Send a photo of your dog to customerservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. Want to contribute to a video for FidelloTV? Schedule an appointment using the same email address and receive €20 in store credit as a thank you for participating!