The Cocker Spaniel got its name for its adeptness in flushing out woodcocks (game birds). The smallest of the sporting spaniels, their use as game hunters emerged in the 1880s in England and Wales, though Spaniels have been around for over a thousand years in Spain. In the 1930s, American breeders decided they wanted to begin breeding some Cocker Spaniels for working ability and others for show. The smaller show breed became known as the American Cocker Spaniel, and the larger became known as the English Cocker Spaniel. English Cocker Spaniels are the most skilled at serving as hearing dogs for deaf people.
Fun facts:
Breed Group: Sporting
Height: 13-16 inches
Weight: 24-32lbs
Nickname: Cocker
Lifespan: 12-15 years
Hypoallergenic: No
Colors: Black, brown, liver roan, red, and on into tricolor variation.
Temperament: friendly, Quiet, faithful, playful, and affectionate.
Are Cocker Spaniels Good with Cats, and are they easy to train Dogs?
The easy-going, friendly Cocker Spaniel temperament makes them a fine friend to a feline. Of course, each dog (and cat) has his preferences and temperament, but you can feel fairly confident in your Cocker Spaniel if properly socialized to your cat or introduced at a young age should get along just swell. Cocker Spaniels are intelligent and love to please, a combination that makes this breed quite easy to train, especially from a young age.
Diseases Cocker Spaniels are Prone to
- Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA): AIHA occurs when a dog’s immune system attacks and destroys his red blood cells. Dogs with AIHA will have pale gums and jaundice, tire easily, and may faint. A swollen abdomen is also a sign and could mean the dog has an enlarged liver. Most affected Cockers do well with medication.
- Eye Disorders: The Cocker Spaniel is prone to Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), glaucoma, lens luxation, lens tumors, and cataracts.
- Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Dilated Cardiomyopathy is a heart condition that is characterized by the heart muscles’ inability to contract properly, which ultimately leads to a decrease in blood pumping to the heart. When a dog has cardiomyopathy, both the heart chambers become enlarged from having to work harder to get blood through. The extra stress on the heart from the restricted blood flow often leads to congestive heart failure (CHF). The major symptoms of DCM include lethargy, anorexia, rapid breathing, shortness of breath, coughing, a swollen abdomen, and temporary loss of consciousness.
- Other diseases are Higher incidences of hypothyroidism in Cocker Spaniels than in any other breed. This breed is also very susceptible to ear infections due to its pendulous ears. Skin disorders, epilepsy, patellar luxation, albinism (lack of melanin and pigmentation), allergies, and kidney problems also affect the Cocker Spaniel.
Furthermore, Cocker Spaniels are historically wonderful family pets and great with children. They also make the ultimate family dog; they are known for their particular attachment to their humans. They’re cheerful dogs with a charming nature and a side that loves to show off.
Recommendable, I will say getting a Cocker Spaniel dog as a pet will not be a bad idea.
