English Cocker Spaniels are compactly and solidly built and covered in a silky coat that comes in solid black, red, or liver, or in parti-colored variations, including roaning and ticking. The coat is short and fine on the head, but medium length on the body. It may be flat or slightly wavy and is well feathered. These dogs have medium-sized oval eyes that are hazel to dark in color, and they have low-set ears. English Cocker Spaniels measure 15 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 26 to 34 pounds. With proper care, they live up to 14 years.
In general, the English Cocker Spaniel breed is a cheerful, demonstrative, biddable, sensitive, affectionate, and sociable breed.
English Cocker Spaniels make excellent companion animals for families due to their trainability and even disposition. Their tail rarely stops wagging and they do well in any environment if given sufficient time and space to exercise.
The English Cocker is taller than the American Cocker Spaniel and is not available in the buff coat color that is so popular in the United States. Additionally, English Cocker Spaniels have a less abundant coat.
In general, the English Cocker Spaniel breed is a cheerful, demonstrative, biddable, sensitive, affectionate, and sociable breed. These dogs always seem to be in a good mood and are alive with positive energy. They are very loyal and prefer to remain close to their human family members.
This is a very funny and inquisitive breed, and the English Cocker is a great choice for families with children. Both kids and adults enjoy the merry and loving nature of these dogs. Additionally, these dogs get along well with cats and other pets if they're raised together. With strangers, the English Cocker tends to be more reserved. This trait make the breed a good watchdog.
To keep these dogs healthy and happy, daily exercise is an absolute necessity. Long leash walks, an hour of running around the backyard, or a fun game of fetch at the park are all good ways to promote activity. Because English Cocker Spaniels are so social, they greatly enjoy walks around the neighborhood where there are other people and animals to interact with. Structured activities are also of benefit, and these dogs do very well at obedience, agility, rally, and other dog sports. In addition, the breed loves to swim and will have a great time boating or playing at the beach.
English Cocker Spaniels are a fairly healthy breed, but they do suffer from some health conditions that may negatively affect quality or length of life. These dogs are prone to certain eye diseases, including progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, and glaucoma, and the breed is also at risk for congenital hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, hypothyroidism, and cardiomyopathy. Additional health concerns include familial nephropathy, ear infections, immune mediated hemolytic anemia, and juvenile-onset renal failure.
Parti-color English Cockers are at increased risk of deafness, while solid-colored dogs are more likely to develop congenital hip dysplasia. The reasons for this are not fully understood. Routine veterinary care can help with early diagnosis and treatment of health conditions to ensure the best possible outcome and quality of life.
These dogs typically live 12 to 14 years with access to veterinary care, timely vaccinations, a healthy diet, and regular exercise.
Generally, English Cocker Spaniels are even-tempered, cheerful dogs. They are not typically aggressive or shy. However, there are some temperament problems in this breed and all English Cockers should have their temperament tested before purchase or adoption.
As an intelligent breed, these dogs learn quickly and are trainable. They should be handled with consistency and firmness, and training should utilize positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise and play rewards, to ensure success. Early socialization increases tolerance in this breed.
These dogs must be kept on a leash when on a walk or in a securely fenced yard. Otherwise, they are at risk of traffic-related accidents and other injuries. Their hunting instinct is strong and English Cocker Spaniels may not be able to resist the urge to hunt and chase small game when outdoors.
English Cocker Spaniels have a medium-length coat that requires brushing every few days to prevent and remove tangles and mats. Regular brushing is also important to keep shedding under control. English Cockers are moderate shedders and loose hair can build up quickly. Every couple of months, it's important to clip around the ears and head and trim the hair around the feet and tail with scissors. This will help maintain a neat appearance.
Frequent bathing is not necessary, but a bath every couple of months can keep the coat clean and fresh smelling. To prevent skin irritation and dryness, only a mild, canine shampoo should be used. The ears must be dried well to prevent yeast or bacterial infections from occurring.
The English Cocker Spaniel's nails should be trimmed about once every month, or more often if needed, and the teeth need brushing regularly to maintain dental health and prevent periodontal disease. Dental chews and drinking water additives are beneficial for tooth and gum health. Once each week, the ears should be checked for signs of infection and cleaned if needed.
The English Cocker Spaniel is one of the oldest land spaniels known. The breed descended from the original Spanish spaniels and was bred and used to flush and retrieve game in dense cover.
Although the American Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel used to be the same breed, they separated in 1946 after diverging in appearance over time. These changes in appearance have continued over the years, and there are considerable differences between English Cockers bred for show and those bred for the field. Both types of English Cocker Spaniels make excellent companion animals.
These dogs are still used in some places for hunting purposes, although they are primarily kept as pets. English Cocker Spaniels are beloved for their cheerful and affectionate personalities and for their adaptability.
The American Kennel Club officially recognized the English Cocker Spaniel in 1946.
