ENGLISH COCKER SPANIEL

English cocker spaniel is a generous and intelligent dog breed. This breed shows curiosity about things around them. English cocker spaniels are very companionate with the family but feel uncomfortable with strangers.

History of English Cocker Spaniel

English cocker spaniel is one of the ancient dog breeds. Before 1600, different types of spaniels were included in the same group. But after that, we obtained two main breeds, “springer and Cocker”. In 1892, these breeds were acknowledged as separate breeds by Kennel Club of Great Britain. In 1930, Cocker was recognized as one of the most famous breeds.

Physical Appearance

English Cocker Spaniel’s height ranges from 16 to 17 inches, and females grow up to 15 to 16 inches. Their weight is about 26 to 32 pounds. English Cocker Spaniel’s size is relatively smaller than Welsh springer spaniel. English cocker spaniels have short to medium coats as they are working dogs. They are seen in different color combinations like white, red, liver, orange, tan, lemon, and black.

Average lifetime

English cocker spaniels live up to 12 to 14 years on average.

Temperament

English cocker spaniels are inquisitive, amiable, and loyal to their owners. But this breed can get aggressive and begin to bark if its extremities are touched. So, dog owners should observe them when they are around small children. Dog owners should involve their dogs in different exercises like swimming to prevent aggressive behavior. Early age socialization training helps English cocker spaniel in becoming a well-rounded dog. English cocker spaniel is a sensitive dog and doesn’t like spending time alone. They might develop separation anxiety if confined alone. So, dog owners should observe them as they bark continuously in stress.

Susceptible to diseases

English cocker spaniel usually has good health, but they can develop different problems. Among one of them is obesity. English cocker spaniel eats a lot. They steal food from everywhere, so, can get obese. To avoid this condition, Dog owners should provide a balanced diet to their dogs. Below are some diseases which can affect them.

Renal Failure

English cocker spaniel can develop kidney problems at a very young age and can lead to kidney failures.

Eye problem

English cocker Spaniel is susceptible to various eye diseases like Cataracts, glaucoma, and progressive retinal atrophy.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia can develop at a very growing age. Hip joint instability occurs in Hip Dysplasia. Diet, environment are the factors that can contribute to developing this deformity. Dog owners should plan proper exercise for their dogs to avoid such conditions.

Care and grooming  

English cocker Spaniel exercise time usually varies with age. English cocker spaniel needs about 15 to 20 minutes of exercise at a very early age, including evening and morning walks. As they grow older, they need to exercise correctly to keep in shape.

Due to their sensitive nature, dog owners should teach them gently. If dog owners use different fun tricks to teach, they will learn quickly.

Dog owners must brush English cockers twice or thrice a week because they have double coats.

Brushing teeth is also necessary to avoid dental problems like plaque deposits.