English Cocker Spaniel
Summary
The English Cocker Spaniel is one of the most popular spaniels in the world, appreciated both for its value as a working dog and for its cheerful and affectionate nature as a companion dog. The name "cocker" derives from the woodcock, the bird that was its hunting specialty. It is a dog of exuberant energy in the field and of a gentle and affectionate temperament at home.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Small to medium
- Height (male)
- 39–41 cm
- Height (female)
- 38–39 cm
- Weight (male)
- 13–14.5 kg
- Weight (female)
- 12–13 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Silky, flat or slightly wavy, with abundant feathering on the ears, legs, belly, and tail
- Common Colors
- Solid black, solid golden/cream, solid liver; bicolors and tricolors; roan (mix of colored and white hairs)
Temperament & Personality
The English Cocker Spaniel is frequently described with the word "merry" by its admirers — it is genuinely jovial, affectionate, and enthusiastic. It has a docile and loving nature that makes it excellent with children and other animals. It is equally a tireless worker in the field, with a keen nose and great determination. Its constantly wagging tail is one of its best-known characteristics.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 60 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- High
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 3–4 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Cataracts and other eye diseases
- Exercise-induced collapse
- Familial nephropathy (hereditary kidney disease)
- Otitis
- Phosphofructokinase deficiency (PFK)
- Recommended Health Tests
- Annual ophthalmologic examination (glaucoma)
- Genetic test for PFK and familial nephropathy
- Hearing evaluation (BAER)
- Hip radiography
Compatibility
- With Children
- Excellent
- With Other Dogs
- Excellent
- With Cats
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Recommended
