Top 6 vital stats about Cocker Spaniels...
Social
Renowned for their friendly behaviour and often seen as ideal family pets
Exercise
Two 30-minute sessions a day
Grooming
Brush weekly
Feeding
2 times a day
Training
Highly intelligent so pick up training easily
Shedding
Moderate shedding
Cocker Spaniel health conditions & temperament
Do Cocker Spaniels need a lot of grooming?
Yes, Cocker Spaniels require a significant amount of grooming. This breed of dog is known for their luscious, silky coats and long, floppy ears- features that need considerable care to keep them looking their best.
Do Cocker Spaniels suffer from health conditions?
Yes, they are prone to some breed-specific issues like ear infections due to their long, floppy ears.
Do Cocker Spaniels bark a lot?
Yes, Cocker Spaniels are indeed known for being somewhat vocal.
General health and temperament of Cocker Spaniels
Cocker Spaniels require regular brushing is essential to prevent mats and tangles, along with frequent trims to maintain their shape and prevent hair from obstructing their vision. Furthermore, this breed is highly expressive and uses barking to convey a range of emotions - from sheer excitement to alerting you about potential intruders.
Cocker Spaniel feeding & attention
How often to feed them?
Adult Cocker Spaniels should be fed twice a day - once in the morning and once in the evening.
Are they social?
Yes, Cocker Spaniels are incredibly social creatures. These dogs have a natural zest for life and they love to be involved in all family activities.
Easy to train?
Yes, Cocker Spaniels are renowned for their amiable, outgoing nature, which typically makes them receptive to training.
Are Cocker Spaniels active?
Cocker Spaniels are known for their playful nature, boundless energy, and a remarkable knack for making friends everywhere they go.
Cocker Spaniel personality & good to knows
Good with children?
Yes, Cocker Spaniels are notably easy to train, making them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners with children.
Good with small living spaces?
Yes, Cocker Spaniels are adaptable and can live happily in an apartment.
Good with other pets?
Yes, Cocker Spaniels love companionship and enjoy the company of other furry pals. Their friendly disposition and playful spirit make them great playmates and companions for other dogs, if they have been properly introduced and socialised from a young age.
Did You Know?
The history about Cocker Spaniels is deeply woven into the fabric of British sporting life. Originating in the United Kingdom, these dogs were bred for hunting gamebirds, particularly woodcock—hence the name 'Cocker'.
The Cocker Spaniel breed comes in two sizes: the American Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel which is larger.
Cocker Spaniels have been featured in several Hollywood movies, including Lady and the Tramp, Beverly Hills Chihuahua, and The Ugly Dachshund.
Package available for your Cocker Spaniel includes
Bronze
Silver
Gold
Complementary treatment
Up to
£500
per illness/injury
Up to
£750
per illness/injury
Up to
£1000
per illness/injury
3rd Party Liability (dogs only)
Up to
£1M
per illness/injury
Up to
£2M
per illness/injury
Up to
£2M
per illness/injury
Death from Illness*
*Death from illness does not apply to dogs aged 9 and over & cats aged 11 and over
£1,000
£1,500
£2,000
Death from accident
£1,000
£1,500
£2,000
Cocker Spaniel Training & Exercise
- When training a Cocker Spaniel, maintain a patient and consistent approach. Start with basic obedience commands like "sit" and "stay," using treats and praise as rewards.
- Incorporate short, frequent training sessions throughout the day to keep your Cocker Spaniel engaged without overwhelming them
- These energetic and intelligent dogs thrive on daily walks and play sessions, which help burn off their abundant energy and maintain good health.
- Mental enrichment is equally important; puzzle toys and training exercises can keep their clever minds engaged and prevent boredom-related behaviours.
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A combination of physical activities and mental stimulation works best for Cocker Spaniels. Aim for at least 60 minutes of exercise per day, which can be split into two 30-minute sessions.
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Brisk walks, jogging, or playing fetch in a secure area are excellent options for physical exercise.
- Hide-and-seek is an excellent option for a Cocker Spaniel, utilising their keen sense of smell and natural hunting instincts.
- Fetch with floating toys in shallow water can be a refreshing activity, tapping into their love for water and retrieval.
- For mental stimulation, puzzle toys filled with treats challenge their problem-solving skills.
Cocker Spaniel Common Health Conditions
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Ear infections are particularly prevalent due to their long, floppy ears, which can trap moisture and debris. Regular cleaning and drying of the ears can help prevent this issue.
- A genetic condition that can lead to blindness; regular eye exams are crucial for early detection.
- A malformation of the hip joint that can cause pain and lameness.
- Regular veterinary check-ups, balanced diet and a stress free environment are key to maintaining your Cocker Spaniel's health.
Cocker Spaniel Health & Social Maintenance
- Puppies need to be fed three to four times daily as they grow rapidly and need more nutrients.
- An adult Cocker Spaniel should be fed around 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dog food daily.
- For coat care, brush your Cocker Spaniel's long, silky fur daily to prevent matting and reduce shedding.
- Pay special attention to their pendulous ears, cleaning them weekly with a veterinarian-approved solution to avoid infections.
- Cocker Spaniels are generally laid-back temperament means they can be great companions for children, provided if both the dog and child are taught to interact with each other respectfully
- Socialisation is key for this breed, so expose your puppy to various people, animals, and environments early on.
- Cocker Spaniels are known for their loving nature, so regular grooming sessions and plenty of cuddles are essential for their emotional well-being.
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