Cocker Spaniel Breed Characteristics
Height
38 to 43 cm at the shoulder
Weight
26 to 35 pounds
Life Expectancy
12 to 15 years
Coat Colours
Red, black, liver, blue roan, tan, golden
Cocker Spaniel
Cheerful, playful and sweet
About the Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is the darling of many dog lovers around the world. They’ve been featured in popular films and tv shows such as the Disney classic Lady and the Tramp. And it’s no surprise, as their beautiful coats and sweet disposition make them ideal for lead roles.
Cocker Spaniels have a merry, happy nature that lets them get along easily with everyone that they meet, of both the two and four-legged variety. They’re the model of a pampered house pet, and their love and affection towards people makes them natural charmers.
As a sporting dog, they love to be outdoors with their owners. They fit best with active owners who have a lot of time to spend with their dogs. However, they also love to lounge around and can fit into small homes and apartments.
Here are some of the qualities you can expect from the Cocker Spaniel, rated from one to five stars. However, all dogs are individuals, and your dog may not display exactly the same characteristics.
Family Life
5/5
Friendly with Kids
4/5
Friendly with Dogs
4/5
Ease of Grooming
1/5
Exercise Needs
3/5
Prey Drive
5/5
Tendency to Bark or Howl
3/5
Good for Novice Owners
4/5
Apartment Living
5/5
Cocker Spaniel Breed History
There are currently two types of Cocker Spaniel: the English and American. Both varieties of Cocker Spaniel were bred to work with bird hunters.
While the term ‘spaniel’ refers to dogs that were believed to have originated in Spain, the Cocker Spaniel actually has its origins in England.
The Cocker Spaniel and English Springer Spaniel are closely related, as they were originally one and the same. Springers were just larger pups in the litters, while Cockers were the smaller dogs. The dogs had different duties during the hunt, based on their size.
The Cocker Spaniel was recognised as a distinct breed in England in the late 19th century. Soon after, American breeders decided to create their own variant of the Cocker Spaniel, resulting in the two types we know today.
Now, the Cocker Spaniel is not often used as a hunting dog, and is most often seen as a beloved family pet.
Caring For a Cocker Spaniel
- Temperament: The typical Cocker Spaniel is playful and intelligent, and loves to please their owner. They are free of any aggressive tendencies and can play well with children, and even get along with cats.
- Grooming: Cocker Spaniels shed heavily and require a lot of grooming time each week to maintain their beautiful coats. They also need to be trimmed fairly regularly, lest they become overgrown with hair.
- Exercise: Most Cocker Spaniels have moderate energy levels and require regular exercise to stave off boredom and keep their bodies healthy. They need 30 to 45 minutes of exercise each day.
- Nutrition: Adult Cocker Spaniels will need around 1½ to 2 cups of high-quality dog food each day. A Cocker Spaniel puppy will need around half that amount. It’s best to monitor your Cocker’s food intake, as they are prone to weight gain.
- Training: Training a Cocker Spaniel is not very difficult at all, as they are eager to please and very intelligent. They do well with positive, reward-based training styles, which even novice owners can employ.
How to Choose a Responsible Cocker Spaniel Breeder
When buying a Cocker Spaniel puppy, your choice of breeder is the biggest decision you’ll have to make, and this choice has a large effect on your puppy’s quality of life. Buying from a responsible breeder will help ensure that your puppy is healthy and has an even temperament.
Knowledgeable, ethical breeders will also have their breeding dogs tested for common health issues and genetic problems that can be passed on to your puppy. Make an effort to ask your breeder about what types of tests they perform on their dogs. Also try to schedule a visit to meet the dam and stud so you can get a sense of their temperament, which may also influence your puppy’s personality.
Cocker Spaniel FAQ
Can Cocker Spaniels be left alone throughout the day?
No, They tend to be ‘velcro’ dogs who desire to be with their owners constantly. They thrive on human companionship and do not appreciate being left alone.
Do Cocker Spaniels make good guard dogs?
No. They may bark to alert their owner when someone comes near, but they are not good guard dogs. They aren’t aggressive, and will not protect your property.
Dog Breeds Similar to the Cocker Spaniel
The information is for general use only. For any specific advice or queries, please consult with your veterinarian.
How to Become a Responsible Breeder
Apply
Within 24 Hours You’ll Hear Back From Us
Review
Our In-house Veterinarian Reviews Your Photos & Application
Members of our community get free access to...
Sample Pet Contracts
($1200+ value)
Exclusive Discounts
($980+ value)
Educational Breeder
Checklists
Certified Custom
Badge
Protected by breeder verification
"I felt reassured I could verify them and have the confidence to know they are coming from a loving, good home and a responsible breeder."
- Brenda, RPBA Buyer
Example of member discounts
RPBA have partnered with well known pet brands to offer discounts for puppy essentials, supplements, training, toys, and much more. Here is a preview of just some of the many RPBA member-exclusive discounts:
Orivet Genetic Pet Care
Black Hawk Food
Greenbah Pet Supplies
Pampered Paws Pet Products
Pet-Mat
- Access To Much More Member Discounts