Cocker Spaniel Breed Facts and Information

Coat & Grooming: Cockers have thick, beautiful coats that require a considerable amount of maintenance. Daily brushing and combing is on the agenda, along with seasonal trips to the groomer or home grooming, to keep the coat clipped into shape. They also love to play in the outdoors, and will bring remnants inside with them—burrs in their feathers, water in their ears, and mud in their paws. As with other breeds, Cocker Spaniels require regular nail trimming, daily tooth brushing and regular ear cleaning.

Shedding: Even with the rigorous coat upkeep, Cocker Spaniels are still notorious shedders. They blow their undercoat twice per year with the changing temperatures and are regularly losing hairs in the off-peak seasons as well. Shedding and coat maintenance are part and parcel of the lovable Cocker Spaniel.

Training: Cocker Spaniels are fast learners who respond well to training. They rank 20th in Stanley Coren’s Intelligence of Dogs ranking, indicating that the breed possesses excellent working intelligence. In their sporting past, they were required to follow commands and display a substantial amount of self-restraint. For example, the Cocker needed to wait on the handlers command or stop in its tracks while flushing birds.

As a sensitive breed, it’s important that training is based on positive rewards. Keep training sessions short, intense, and exciting for them. Cockers have a tendency toward excitable or submissive urination more than other breeds, and especially during puppyhood. Be sure to keep them on a regular potty schedule to help minimize this problem. Another priority for Cocker owners should be leash training. These strong, small dogs love to explore and can be a struggle to control on walks unless they are taught not to pull.

Barking: Cockers aren’t known for being big barkers. They may occasionally sound the alarm, but should be expected to follow commands and stop raising a ruckus when it’s enough. Cockers put their weight into their woof, producing a loud, throaty bark that sounds unlikely for a small dog. When excited, they produce a higher-pitched yap, and they can bark continuously when frustrated or lonely.

Personality: Well-bred Cockers are merry and sociable. They tend to be friendly without being overzealous and are known for getting along with all people and other pets.

Temperament & Behavior: Cocker Spaniels are generally merry and social companions. They enjoy being around the activity of family life, including playing with children and other pets. And when it’s time to relax, they enjoy few things better than a good cuddle on the couch. Cockers tend to be sensitive both mentally and physically. They can react defensively to harsh treatment or physical impositions, like grabbing.

Behavior with Kids: Generally, Cockers are considered to be great dogs with kids. They can be sensitive to being touched, so be sure they’re not being grabbed or pulled by overzealous little ones. As with any dog, be sure that you are supervising your Cocker Spaniel around kids and unfamiliar adults.

Protection: Cocker Spaniels are not watchdogs. Some may be willing to raise the alarm in the case of unfamiliar sights and sounds but don’t count on it.

Life span: On average, Cocker Spaniels live to be about 13-15 years old.

Inherited Health Issues: As with any breed, many health conditions have been acknowledged in Cocker Spaniels that are either inherited or occurring at an increased frequency in this breed. Before adopting a puppy, be sure to discuss any known health problems in the bloodline with your breeder. As a result of over-breeding, some Cocker Spaniels have developed less desirable traits in their temperament, so ask to meet your puppy’s parents whenever possible. This list may include: Patent ductus arteriosus, Dilated cardiomyopathy, Myxomatous degeneration of the mitral valve, Sick sinus syndrome, Cryptococcosis, Malassezia dermatitis, Primary seborrhea, Hypothyroidism, Chronic hepatitis, Oropharyngeal neoplasia, Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, Incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle, Basal cell tumor, Cutaneous histiocytoma, Lymphoma, Cutaneous papillomas, Epilepsy, Idiopathic facial paralysis, Intervertebral disc disease, Ceroid lipofuscinosis, Cataracts, Corneal dystrophy, Distichiasis, Ectropion, Entropion, Progressive retinal atrophy, Glaucoma, Keratoconjunctivitis sicca, Imperforate lacrimal punctum, Persistent pupillary membranes, Third eyelid gland prolapse, Retinal dysplasia, Familial renal disease and Persistent penile frenulum.

Preventive Care: It is very important to schedule an appointment with your vet shortly after bringing your new Cocker Spaniel puppy home. During this first wellness visit, the veterinarian will examine your puppy to determine if any congenital defects are present and discuss the importance of vaccinations, deworming treatments,heartworm preventatives, and flea and tick preventatives.

Since Cocker Spaniels are prone to developing a variety of eye and skin conditions, be sure to closely monitor your dog for new lumps and bumps or changes in their eyes. If you notice any changes, take your Cocker to the vet sooner rather than later for evaluation. Skin can easily be monitored during routine bathing and brushing.

Cocker Spaniels relatively prone to developing obesity, so feeding your four-legged friend a carefully measured meal is important. Choose a well-balanced diet and avoid offering treats or table scraps in excess – these quickly pack on the pounds!

Daily Consumption: Average daily consumption for an adult Cocker is 0.5 - 1 cups

Energy Level: Enjoys some moderate exercise every now and then

Exercise: Although today’s Cocker has enjoyed a companion lifestyle for many generations, the roots of the breed originated in sporting. Some of these more active traits can still be recognized in the breed. Cockers tend to be ‘mouthy’, more than willing to pick up and carry things around, and retrieve. When untrained, this tendency can become problematic—destructive chewing, compulsive eating, and snapping or guarding.

Regardless of recent heritage, Cocker Spaniels don’t know that they are primarily breed for ‘show’. A few lines have retained high, field-intensity energy levels and most have a penchant for wandering. In general, Cockers don’t need hard workouts. They typically have a medium energy level and are often ready to play, but tucker out pretty quickly. They are quick to pick up on new games and usually love dog sports like obedience trials, flyball, agility, hunting and tracking, and therapy service.

Climate: Cocker Spaniels have a thick coat that keeps them well insulated in cool climates. A haircut in the summer and in warmer climates, will keep them from getting too hot.