Cocker Spaniel
Where Is the Cocker Spaniel From?
The Spaniel breed was developed for hunting in 14th century Britain. They were bred to hunt Eurasian woodcock, which is a medium-sized waterfowl bird prized among wild game enthusiasts for its rich flavor. The breed’s name was influenced by their hunting specialty, and they made their way to the United States in the late 1800s.
Caring for a Cocker Spaniel
What Kind of Diet Does a Cocker Spaniel Need?
What Kind of Diet Does a Cocker Spaniel Need?
Cocker Spaniels need a well-balanced and controlled diet, since they are prone to obesity. They should be fed a measured amount twice a day. Avoid table scraps and keep treats to a minimum. They are likely to beg for food at the dinner table, which is a learned behavior and difficult to stop if not caught early.
Skin and food allergies are common in this breed. If itching or dietary indiscretion is noted, consult your veterinarian for assistance with meal planning.
How Much Grooming Does a Cocker Spaniel Need?
How Much Grooming Does a Cocker Spaniel Need?
This is a breed that requires frequent grooming. Their coat needs to be brushed almost daily to avoid knotting and matting. Hair that grows inside the ear canal also has to be maintained, since Spaniels are prone to chronic ear infections.
However, bathing requirements are limited to once a month, since this breed naturally produces essential oils that keep their skin healthy. Excessive bathing will strip them of these oils and cause skin issues.
Are Cocker Spaniels Healthy Dogs?
Are Cocker Spaniels Healthy Dogs?
The Cocker Spaniel breed is prone to a variety of health conditions, making pet insurance a sound investment for new and prospective pet parents.
Cocker Spaniels need to be screened for ocular diseases and heart conditions at a young age. Middle-aged Spaniels are prone to immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, which is a condition where the body attacks and destroys its own red blood cells. It often requires blood transfusions and immunosuppressive medication and, without treatment, it is a life-threatening disease.
Cocker Spaniels are predisposed to: immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, urolithiasis, atopy and food allergies, otitis, cataracts, glaucoma, lens luxation, entropion, ectropion, progressive retinal atrophy, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, cherry eye, distichiasis, melanoma, anal sac adenocarcinoma, lipomas, epilepsy, chronic hepatitis, intervertebral disk disease (IVDD), hip dysplasia, patent ductus arteriosus, and chronic valvular heart disease.
How Much Training Does a Cocker Spaniel Need?
How Much Training Does a Cocker Spaniel Need?
Cocker Spaniels are an intelligent breed that is well suited for obedience training. They have a natural instinct to hunt and protect, making them great watchdogs. Cockers are food motivated, so positive reinforcement is an appropriate training method.
Proper socialization is required for the breed, since they may have trouble interacting with children, especially as they get older. Training can begin at 6 to 8 weeks of age.
How Much Exercise Does a Cocker Spaniel Need?
How Much Exercise Does a Cocker Spaniel Need?
Cockers need about 1 hour of exercise each day to keep them happy and healthy. They love to go on short walks two to three times a day, sniff around outside, play tug of war, and swim during the warmer months.
If not given regular exercise, they may become obese and suffer from joint disease and/or diabetes.
What Are the Physical Characteristics of a Cocker Spaniel?
Cocker Spaniel Facts
Other Breeds to Explore
References
- Morris, Desmond. Dogs: The Ultimate Dictionary of Over 1,000 Dog Breeds. Trafalgar Square, 2002.
- American Kennel Club. The Complete Dog Book. Random House Digital, Inc., 2006.
- Wilcox, Bonnie and Chris Walkowicz. The Atlas of Dog Breeds of the World. T.F.H Publications, Inc., 1995.