![Cocker Spaniel (English) Dog Breed](/sites/default/files/styles/square_medium_440x440/public/2022-07/Cocker-Spaniel-English.jpg?itok=VzijSHjN)
Family-friendly: | 5/5 |
Exercise needs: | 4/5 |
Easy to train: | 4/5 |
Tolerates being alone: | 1/5 |
Likes other pets: | 5/5 |
Energy level: | 5/5 |
Grooming needs: | 3/5 |
Shedding: | 3/5 |
English Cocker Spaniel can be prone to:
- Ear infections
- Glaucoma
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Retinal pigment epithelial dystrophy which is where deposits form in the eye and this can result in damage to the eye and blindness in dim light.
- Familial nephropathy which is a serious disease where the kidneys do not work properly.
- Acral mutilation syndrome which is where dogs start to damage their paws as they are unable to feel pain in this part of their body.
- Atopy where the skin reacts to allergens in the environment and becomes sore and itchy.
Priority Kennel Club health schemes and testing:
- Eye screening scheme
- Eye testing for pectinate ligament abnormality testing to look for signs that a dog is affected by glaucoma.
As well as DNA testing to see whether or not a dog has the potential to develop certain conditions:
- DNA test for progressive retinal atrophy, familial nephropathy and acral mutilation syndrome which tests whether or not a dog has the potential to be affected by this condition.
The Cocker Spaniel puppy weighs about 1.4 kg but can get to a weight of 13 – 14.5 kg in adulthood. Their coats are flat and silky with plenty of feathering on the front legs. The Cocker Spaniel colours can range from black, red, orange, and brown, to different combinations of two or more colours.
They have a certain regal appearance with their ears being long and feathered and their coats, beautifully thick and wavy.
The Cocker Spaniel is a busy, friendly dog who thrives on human companionship, wanting nothing more than to please their owners. They are ideal pets where there are children about and they get on well with other household animals.
Cocker Spaniels are a very happy breed, constantly wagging their tails and always on the go. They are easily trained, being both clever and eager to learn.
Do Cocker Spaniels shed a lot?
No, compared to other breeds, Cocker Spaniels don’t shed a lot, but it depends on the individual dog and season (spring and fall is when they shed more).
Can a Cocker Spaniel be left alone?
It’s recommended that a Cocker Spaniel not be left alone for more than four hours because they are prone to getting separation anxiety.
What are the disadvantages of a Cocker Spaniel?
Some owners might find Cocker Spaniels to be too energetic as they need a lot of exercise to burn off the excess energy. Also, separation anxiety can cause Cocker Spaniels to be destructive and excessively noisy, which might be an issue for owners that need to leave them alone during the day.
Is it better to get a male or female Cocker Spaniel?
The differences between a male and a female Cocker Spaniel are minimal and while females are generally easier to train and more affectionate, males are more independent, but this also depends on the dog’s personality and character.