Facts about Cocker Spaniel Dogs

Cocker spaniels are enjoyable dogs to own. Whether you want a dog for a companion or a hunter, you’ll find both in the cocker spaniel. This small dog is a popular choice for anyone who likes a high-energy dog who can do everything from sitting on the couch to agility shows.

Cocker spaniels are sweet, bold, and gentle dogs. This small dog is always happy to see his human and is not the type of dog to challenge his owner. Cocker spaniels are playful, devoted, and very intelligent. They have a tendency to be shy if they are not socialized when they are young, but overall, cocker spaniels love everyone.

Cocker Spaniel's With Kids

This small dog loves children. They are very tolerant and play well with small children. In fact, the cocker spaniel does best in families that are moderately to highly active and a family with children is a cocker spaniels best friend. They do not like to be left alone for long periods, and a family with children is ideal for them, as they will always have someone to play with.

The cocker spaniel has a medium-length coat that is silky and feathered. Their ears are very long, and so must be checked regularly for infections. Most cocker spaniels have brown eyes, but merle colored ones may have blue eyes. There are many different color variations – black, buff, black and tan, red, merle, and other combinations. Most of these small dogs have their tails docked, and they still are always wagging. Cocker spaniels rarely weigh more than 30 pounds.

Cocker spaniels need daily brushing. If the fur is left long, they should also get a daily bath. Many owners trim their hair to a medium length to avoid the daily bath routine. The small dog’s eyes should be cleaned regularly. Cocker spaniels will require regular trimming of their fur whether it is kept long or medium length.

Cocker spaniels should be trained starting at an early age. They can be difficult to housetrain and crate training is highly recommended. A harsh tone of voice can break this small dog’s heart, so harsher punishments are not needed. Socialized at an early age, the cocker spaniel is happy meeting new animals and people and very quick at making friends. They need patience as it will take time for them to learn.

Cocker spaniels are very active dogs and require daily exercise. Puppies require more than adults do. A nice long walk and a round of ball usually will do the trick. This small dog is a natural retriever and loves to play fetch. Cocker spaniels have enough energy that they do well in agility competitions but it will take time for them to learn what is required of them. They are not well suited to apartments due to their high energy, but if taken out every day for regular walks they will adjust to apartment life.

The cocker spaniel is one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S. and a favorite around the world. The small dog was developed from the line of English Cocker Spaniels, who are mainly hunting dogs. The cocker spaniel is small and showier than the English cocker and is more of a companion dog. The two were considered different breeds in the 1940s. The first cocker spaniel was registered in America in 1878 and the first to win at the Westminster dog show was in 1921.

Photo Credit:

Photo #1: octoberdog

Photo #2 & #3: Paul Keleher