Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniel
The breed Cocker Spaniel is a kind of hunting dog or gun dog. This breed is the most popular for reproducing the most varied pups or litters among other dog breeds (around three to twelve at once). It is commonly known as the English cocker Spaniel as well. Gun dogs are active, sporting, and with a well-built body, and so are the Cocker Spaniels. Additionally, they are very well-natured as well.
Origin
This particular breed of dog has been in the literature and art for around five hundred years. The real differentiation among the species of Spaniels began in the middle of the 19th century, and Cocker Spaniels were primarily bred for hunting as gun dogs in the United Kingdom.
The term cocker was coined from the dogs’ hunting the Eurasian woodcocks. After the breed was introduced in the United States, the dogs were bred to a different standard, and this breeding enabled it to further specialize in hunting the woodcock (American).
Size
The Cocker spaniel breed of dogs is generally moderately sized. The male cocker spaniel pups can stand tall up to a height of fifteen inches. In contrast, the female cocker spaniels can stand up to a height of fourteen inches.
Generally, the cocker spaniels do not weigh more than thirty pounds. The caregivers must ensure that this breed does not over-eat so that a standard and healthy weight is maintained for their well-being.
Coat
The typical English breed of the cocker spaniels has a medium-long coat that is generally slightly wavy or flat and comes with a smooth, silky texture. Their body parts, like the legs, belly, and chest, are mostly covered with comparatively longer lengths of hair than the rest of the body, known as feathering. But, the American breed of cocker spaniels does not grow their coat as long as compared to the English cocker spaniels. Due to their fur coat, they can be pretty labour-intensive to groom.
Temperament
Cocker spaniels are a well-bred breed and usually have a charming temperament. They are naturally cuddly and affectionate and love to get involved in different family activities. The male and the female pups are alert, playful, consistently high on energy level, and intelligent.
They love outdoor activities and are wanderlust by nature. They are highly friendly, trustworthy, and even-tempered; thus, Cocker Spaniel can be trusted to be around babies or children.
Care
Having a cocker spaniel around can be an excellent experience for dog owners. One needs to socialize their cocker spaniel by introducing them to other pets. As owners, one needs to make them feel safe, so let them take their time to get used to their surroundings and people.
Exercising your cocker spaniels is also very important as they are very playful. You can walk your cocker spaniel for about thirty minutes twice a day, and they will continue to be active and merry.
Health
The cocker spaniel breed can generally live between twelve to fifteen years, provided they get proper care and maintenance.
A few of their serious health issues can include PRA or progressive retinal atrophy, patellar luxation, glaucoma, and cataract.