English Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniel, English Cocker
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The English Cocker Spaniel is a medium-sized sporting dog known for its merry and affectionate nature, initially bred for hunting woodcock. They are characterized by their medium-length coat, moderate exercise needs, and general good health but require regular grooming.

Origin and Purpose

  • England
  • Hunting birds, particularly woodcock

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female14-16 inches26-32 pounds
Male15-17 inches28-34 pounds

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Various, including black, liver, red, golden, parti-color (bi-color or tri-color) and roan
Type
  • Dense, silky, and flat or slightly wavy
Length
  • Medium

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate
Grooming
  • Regular brushing, professional grooming recommended
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Well-developed, softly contoured
Skull
  • Rounded but not coarse
Ears
  • Long, set low, and hanging close to the cheeks
Eyes
  • Dark brown or hazel, round, full but not prominent
Nose
  • Black or brown, well developed
Muzzle
  • Square, with well-developed jaws
Teeth
  • Scissor bite
Neck
  • Moderate length, slightly arched
Forequarters
  • Angled, well-muscled
Fore Legs
  • Straight, strong
Hindquarters
  • Well-muscled, angulated
Hind Legs
  • Straight, parallel when viewed from behind
Feet
  • Compact, round, well-padded
Tail
  • Docked (traditionally), carried level with the back or slightly higher
Gait
  • Free, powerful and effortless movement with good reach and drive

Temperament

  • Merry, affectionate, gentle, intelligent, playful, sensitive

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • High
Good with Children
  • Very Good
Good with Dogs
  • Good
Good with Cats
  • Good
Openness to Strangers
  • Friendly
Playfulness Level
  • High
Protective Nature
  • Low
Adaptability Level
  • High

Working Roles

  • Hunting
  • Flushing and retrieving game birds
  • Companion

Exercise Needs

  • Moderate, daily walks and playtime required

Health

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
  • Familial Nephropathy
  • Ear infections

Additional Notes

  • Prone to separation anxiety, requires early socialization and training
  • Regular exercise is crucial to manage weight and prevent destructive behavior
  • Coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting.

References