Half Working Half Show Cocker Spaniel? The 135 Top Answers

Every breed of dog has advantages and disadvantages. Depending on your lifestyle, personality, and a whole host of other factors, your “perfect” pooch is entirely subjective and personal to you. Nonetheless, we caught up with Steph from Steph and the Spaniels as she shares with us why she loves her Working Cocker Spaniels Sev and Lily.

If you’re thinking of getting a Working Cocker Spaniel but need some convincing, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s take a look at why this dog breed could be the ideal canine companion for you…

You are loving!

Sev and Lily are both very loving and affectionate dogs, they really care about being with us. Because of this, they try very hard to please you and want to make sure they are doing everything right for you. All Sev ever wants is excitement and attention, and Lily loves cuddles. Being with people is what they love!

you are smart

Working Cocker Spaniels are easy to train and being a working breed means they not only train well but really benefit from it. From puppy training to general obedience work, it’s important to keep training your dog on a regular basis—at least weekly. Not only will your dog get a great workout, but the mental stimulation will help keep their behavior under control.

Sev and Lily do occasional gun dog training every other week and while they will never be working dogs it is great to see that when they are good they enjoy it and want to learn more.

They love to exercise!

Although the training and mental stimulation is great, spaniels really love being free and running around. Besides country walks, Sev and Lily love water and swimming, chasing balls and running across open spaces. A short leadwalk just won’t cut it, but it’s also perfect for getting you out of the house. Ideally, this breed needs at least 1-2 hours of exercise a day.

You are a great size

Spaniels vary in size, but both Sev and Lily weigh under 13kg and the breed is known to fall into the medium-sized breed category. They easily fit under tables, carry them on the subway, or sit on your lap on the bus. Not only that, they also have a very big personality! No small dog syndrome here.

They are perfect posers

Okay, this may be personal for @stephandthespaniels, but Sev and Lily are Instagram famous for a reason! Sev especially loves to pose and have the camera on him – he knows it means treats and is well aware of how handsome he is!

How about a dog-friendly vacation?

If you decide to add a Working Cocker Spaniel to your family, be sure to check out our totally paw-friendly range of dog-friendly vacations! Here are some of our top trending travel collections for this year and beyond…

Dogs are the ultimate loyal companions, but some breeds are more affectionate than others. From Cocker Spaniels to Skye Terriers, these dependent dogs often follow their owners wherever they go.

“The benefits of owning a dog are tremendous, including the positive impact it has on our physical and mental health,” Kennel Club’s Bill Lambert tells Country Living. “Likewise, dogs love spending time with their owners, whether it’s cuddling at home or out for a walk, but there are certain breeds that are known for their incredibly loyal and affectionate nature.”

Remember that every dog’s behavior and attitude depends on their training, socialization and individual personality. With that in mind, take a look at the dog breeds that love being around their owners the most…

1. Cocker Spaniel

sztyon87 / 500px Getty Images

“Cheerful, gentle Cocker Spaniels, known for their happy nature and ever-wagging tails, are real all-rounders. Originally bred to be skilled working dogs, they are also very popular family dogs,” says Bill.

“They love to exercise and explore new territories, but at the same time shower their owners with gentle affection. They can be more difficult to train but will reward patient owners with dedication.”

2. Skye Terrier

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“Originally bred in Scotland for hunting, Skye Terriers are devoted companion dogs known to be owned by Queen Victoria. They are loyal to their owners and can be suspicious of strangers but are generally calm dogs.”

3. Tibetan Spaniel

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“Tibetan Spaniels enjoy spending time with their owners, whether it’s watching them work or cuddling them! They are intelligent, affectionate and loyal to their owners.”

4. Deer Dog

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Bill tells us, “One of the largest purebred breeds, the Deerhound is a vulnerable native breed. He is a calm and friendly companion. Known for being obedient and easy to train, they also go to great lengths to please their owners. That being said, because of their size, they need owners who can provide them with more than two hours of exercise a day and access to a large yard to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.”

5. German Wirehaired Pointer

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“German Pointers are gentle and affectionate dogs known for their incredible loyalty. They are also a very active breed that loves to be outside, with gun dog origins so they need lots of exercise and attention.”

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Cocker Spaniels are lively dogs who love to play. They are known for being “happy” dogs because their tails are always wagging! Although Cocker Spaniels were originally bred as hunting dogs, they have become popular family pets.

Cockers are very people-oriented dogs who enjoy having company with them throughout the day. They are highly adaptable and are just as well suited to life in the city as in the country as long as they have a safe place to roam around (and plenty of playtime with their owner, of course).

Common Health Issues in Cocker Spaniels

Cocker Spaniels can make great pets for the right owners, no matter where you live, and are known to be very social. Unfortunately, like so many other purebred dogs, they are subject to certain issues and conditions related to their breed.

If you are thinking of buying a Cocker Spaniel puppy, make sure your pup’s parents have had the appropriate health screening to reduce the chances of your pup being affected by certain medical conditions. We recommend looking into a Kennel Club approved breeder as they will have additional requirements that will benefit your pup’s health.

If you want to minimize the risk of your dog getting into trouble because of exaggerated traits, you can read our advice on choosing a pedigree dog.

Caring for your Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are lively dogs and are suited to fairly active families with plenty of time to play. They are smart dogs who like to please and are therefore easy to train in the right hands. They are known for being friendly when properly socialized with other dogs and people. Because of their gentle nature, Cocker Spaniels are a popular choice for first-time owners.

Like most dogs, your Cocker will prefer to have company at all times. Without the right amount of stimulation and company, your Cocker Spaniel will likely try to entertain himself – which may result in some of your furniture and belongings falling victim to nibbling and chewing.

Cocker Spaniels and Barking

As with any dog, your Cocker Spaniel is likely to vocalize and how much noise he makes depends on each dog’s individual personality. That means if your cocker doesn’t have enough to do and is bored, they’re more likely to bark to let you know. Because they prefer to be around people, your Cocker Spaniel may bark when you’re not home (or at least your neighbors will let you know!). If you have problems with excessive noise or barking, we recommend that you seek advice from a recognized behaviorist.

training and socialization

Cocker Spaniels were originally bred as hunting dogs, so they are particularly good at retrieving. They are intelligent dogs with a real willingness to learn, so starting positive, reward-based training from a young age will benefit both you and them! Remember, they pick up bad habits just as quickly as good ones, so the training needs to be consistent throughout their lives. If you are a first-time owner or don’t have much experience with the breed, you may want to take your dog to training classes. You can find the nearest one online.

Exposing your Cocker Spaniel to a variety of people, dogs, and experiences from an early age will help them grow into a confident and happy adult. They are a sociable breed by nature, so you might find that they love to say hello to anyone and everyone out there.

Cocker Spaniels are known to suffer from separation anxiety, so it’s best to have someone with you during the day. It’s important that your Cocker is never left alone for more than four hours, but even that can be too much for your dog. You need to teach them that when they are young it is okay to be alone for very short periods of time.

exercise

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Postheader Skip Postheader How Much Exercise Do Cocker Spaniels Need?

Cocker Spaniels are wonderful puppies with affectionate and playful personalities. These dogs come from long lines of working dogs and remain a popular breed for those involved in country sports.

But whether your Cocker Spaniel is a working dog or a spoiled pet, he needs plenty of quality exercise to stay happy and healthy. But how much exercise do they need?

How much exercise does a Cocker Spaniel need?

The amount of exercise your Cocker Spaniel needs will depend on their age, overall health and fitness, and whether they are a “Show” or a “Working” line. Healthy dogs between the ages of 1 and 9 years should get at least 70 minutes of exercise each day, divided up between their daily walks. Working line cockers may have higher energy and therefore need more exercise than their show line counterparts.

To get a customized training target, simply download the PitPat app and enter your details. If you want to see if your Cocker Spaniel is meeting their daily targets, get a PitPat dog activity monitor for just £39.

How Much Exercise Do Cocker Spaniel Puppies Need?

It’s really important that puppies get just the right amount of exercise without overdoing it. Too little exercise and you have excess energy, too much and you could permanently damage your growing joints.

In general, most puppies can start walking after their second vaccination – around 10 to 12 weeks of age – and should be given five minutes of structured exercise (e.g. their daily walk) per month of their age until they are adults. Don’t forget, when you receive a training goal from the PitPat app, we take their age into account and automatically increase their goal as your pup gets older.

Read more about training your pup.

What Types of Activities Are Good for Cocker Spaniels?

Cocker Spaniels are intelligent dogs who use their paws for all kinds of exercise. Instead of your normal walking routine, why not switch it up with one of these awesome activities?

fragrance work

agility

To swim

canicross

obedience training

volleyball

Keep in mind that some dog sports and other activities may not be appropriate for young dogs, old dogs, or those with medical conditions. If in doubt, ask your veterinarian first.

How far can a Cocker Spaniel run?

The distance your Cocker Spaniel can cover on a walk depends on his stamina and fitness level. If you are planning a long-distance walk, you should gradually increase the distances your dog walks each day until they are almost at the length you plan to walk.

Use a PitPat dog activity monitor to measure how much distance your cocker has traveled – you can even customize this for your individual dog by tapping the question mark icon in the app.

How far can a Cocker Spaniel run?

Cocker spaniels can run for miles if they’ve had time to build up their fitness, so they’ll make perfect running buddies. To prepare for long-distance runs, start small and gradually increase the amount you run together each day. Monitor your pooch for signs that he may be overtired or in pain and reduce his activity if he is.

Cocker Spaniels love exercise and it’s great to get their minds working at the same time. However you train your dog, PitPat is ready to measure all of its activities – running, walking and playing – it will even survive its dives in the river! Get yours now for just £39!

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Cocker spaniels are classified between two different spaniel dogs: the American cocker spaniel and the English cocker spaniel. They are absolutely adorable with their long floppy ears and wiry coat. Cocker Spaniels are also one of the friendliest and most eager to please their owners as best they can. Because of this, they remain a popular pet choice for many dog ​​owners. As a companion dog, you will never get bored with your Cocker Spaniel.

How much do you know about this furry pup whose original purpose was hunting? Here are some fun and fascinating facts about them, like the Cocker Spaniel’s lifespan and how you, the dog owner, can help them live longer.

How Long Do Cocker Spaniels Live?

Cocker Spaniels live between 12 and 14 years. Mike Baird / Creative Commons 2,112 people failed this quiz. Do you think you can? Take our brand new A-Z Animals Dogs Quiz

The average life expectancy of a Cocker Spaniel is between 12 and 14 years. The English Cocker Spaniel has an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years, while the life expectancy of the American Cocker Spaniel is 10 to 14 years. As with most dog breeds, both dogs are prone to some health issues. They are also predisposed to certain genetic disorders. All of these play a part in the longevity of any Cocker Spaniel.

A cocker spaniel in Sherman Oaks, California may have been the world’s oldest living dog. On New Year’s Day, Uno turned 22 – 110 in human years. However, according to the 2010 Guinness Book of World Records, a dachshund mix named Chanel is still officially recognized as the oldest living dog in the world at 21 years old.

According to Sherman Oaks ophthalmologist Norm Steinberg, Uno is unofficially the oldest dog in the world. Because he was not registered with the American Kennel Club, there is no record of his birth.

Now that we have a better understanding of its lifespan, let’s take a closer look at the cocker spaniel life cycle.

The Average Life Cycle of a Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are fun and affectionate dogs that make great companions. If you’ve always been curious about how they go from adorable puppies to majestic adults, then we’ve got the round-up for you.

birth

At birth, Cocker Spaniel puppies spend most of their time resting and focusing all of their energy on growing. You are born with your eyes and ears closed. This means they cannot see or hear. They require milk every two hours to support their rapid development.

puppies

Two to four weeks is a transitional period when their eyes open and they begin to stand. By the third week, they are learning to be autonomous, playing with their littermates, and controlling their body temperature. Puppies will fight between four and six months of age, showing fear, aggressiveness, testing boundaries and having territorial difficulties. At this moment, these actions are normal and do not pose any danger. You have an emotional immaturity similar to youth. Females can have their first heat.

adulthood

Cocker spaniels are considered fully grown at around 12 to 18 months of age. They reach their maximum weight by 24 months of age and can maintain it for the rest of their lives with exercise and a healthy diet. At this stage in the life cycle, your Cocker Spaniel has developed its personality and core traits.

What Factors Affect Cocker Spaniel Lifespan?

Cocker spaniels are threatened by a number of health issues. Labrador Photo Video/Shutterstock.com

Many Cocker Spaniels have been kept as pets because of their even temperament, beautiful coat and aristocratic demeanor. Overbreeding to meet the demand for this beautiful breed has had a significant impact on the Cocker Spaniel’s overall health and longevity in recent years.

Some of the key factors affecting Cocker Spaniel longevity include:

Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a disease of the heart muscle that causes the heart to weaken and expand. DCM commonly affects the left and right sides of the heart. Cocker spaniels are at risk for this heart condition, so watch out for rapid, labored breathing.

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a heart muscle disease that causes the heart to weaken and expand. DCM commonly affects the left and right sides of the heart. Cocker spaniels are at risk for this heart condition, so watch out for rapid, labored breathing. Eye Diseases: Cocker Spaniels are predisposed to acute angle-closure glaucoma. Redness of the eyeball, clouding of the cornea making the eye look blue, dilated pupil, squinting, profuse tearing, drooping of the head and loss of vision are all symptoms.

Cocker spaniels are predisposed to acute angle-closure glaucoma. Redness of the eyeball, clouding of the cornea making the eye look blue, dilated pupil, squinting, profuse tearing, drooping of the head and loss of vision are all symptoms. Skin Conditions: Due to their environment, Cocker Spaniel dogs are among the breeds most commonly affected by skin conditions and allergies. They’re prone to seborrhea and dermatitis, two conditions that can cause an unpleasant odor and itchy, oily, scaly skin.

How to extend the life of your Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels need regular exercise and training to lead healthy lives. Olga Aniven/Shutterstock.com

As our fluffiest family member, our dogs mean the world to us. That’s why, as dog owners, we want to know everything we can do to extend our best friend’s life. While certain factors are beyond our control, there are still some we can help with.

The best ways to extend your pooch’s life are:

Healthy Diet: Cocker Spaniels love food, and as they quickly bond with the person who feeds them, it’s important to keep an eye on their weight. Make sure you feed your dog high-quality, nutritious dog food. When choosing meals for your Cocker Spaniel, consider their size, age, and activity level.

Cocker Spaniels love food, and since they quickly bond with the person who feeds them, it’s important to keep an eye on their weight. Make sure you feed your dog high-quality, nutritious dog food. When choosing meals for your Cocker Spaniel, consider their size, age, and activity level. Engaging in exercise and training: Cocker Spaniels are studious and clever dogs, which makes training a pleasure. Positive reinforcement and obedience training work effectively for them. Cocker Spaniels should exercise gently for the first six months of their lives. Then you can fit more exciting walks into your regular schedule.

Cocker Spaniels are studious and smart dogs, which makes training them a pleasure. Positive reinforcement and obedience training work effectively for them. Cocker Spaniels should exercise gently for the first six months of their lives. Then you can fit more exciting walks into your regular schedule. Brushing Teeth: Brushing your Cocker Spaniel’s teeth regularly can prevent tartar and plaque build-up and keep their gums and teeth healthy. Failure to clean your dog’s teeth can result in dental problems such as tooth decay, which can lead to infection and increase your dog’s risk of heart disease.

introduction

When a deliverer comes to the door, Lana’s cocker spaniel starts barking. At first Lana liked that; Her dog warned her when someone approached the door. However, their small dog’s behavior soon spiraled out of control, with hysterical barking that only stopped long after the delivery man had left. Lana doesn’t mind that her dog barks a few times to warn her that someone is approaching, she just wants the annoying barking to stop and for her little Cocker Spaniel to be quiet when she tells them to stop barking . Shouldn’t be asking too much, right?

The fact is, dogs bark to protect you and their property, which is natural. However, if the barking gets out of hand or your dog isn’t responding to commands to stop barking, you have a problem. Cocker Spaniels can be high-spirited, vocal dogs, so your Cocker Spaniel is particularly prone to develop a habit of barking at suppliers. The reason this behavior can be difficult to eliminate is that the behavior is self-rewarding. A stranger approaches your dog’s territory, your dog barks, the stranger walks away, your Cocker Spaniel wins! Breaking this habit takes some ingenuity. Luckily, there are several successful strategies to get your cocker spaniel to stop barking at the delivery people.

Cocker Spaniels are a popular breed that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to ward off moments of intense energy and hyperactivity. While in extreme cases the dog may have a health condition that is causing their behavior, most owners will find that they can be consistently controlled.

Step 1

Tire your Cocker Spaniel with plenty of exercise and active play. Because of their energy levels, your dog would make an excellent running partner to exercise with. Take long walks and vary the route to encourage mental stimulation. As a gun dog breed, hunting is in their nature; Fetching items like a frisbee or a ball will burn off the extra calories they may be consuming and help keep them both fit and calmer.

step 2

Make your cocker spaniel work for his food. Mentally engage him with a toy that hides the food or treat inside—like peanut butter—and force him to work for it. This meets his need for constant activity and stimulates him mentally.

step 3

Reconsider his diet. Many commercial dog foods can contain poor quality meats and fillers that may not provide your cocker spaniel with adequate nutrition and could contribute to their hyperactivity. Talk to your veterinarian about an appropriate diet for your dog that may help control hyperactivity naturally.

step 4

During quieter moments, teach your Cocker Spaniel commands like “sit,” “down,” or “quiet” to use when behaving.

step 5

Provide him with plenty of indoor toys so he doesn’t get bored or demand constant attention from you. Teach him to play a gentle game of retrieve or tug of war inside; This allows you to multitask but keeps your cocker spaniel engaged and active.

step 6

Whether you’re bringing home a Cocker Spaniel or an English Cocker Spaniel, it’s going to be an exciting time for you and your family. Both breed variants are happy and optimistic dogs. But do these traits carry over to an intelligent dog breed?

According to Stanley Coren, both the English and American Cocker Spaniel are smart dogs. In fact, they are the 20th and 23rd smartest dog breeds respectively. But Cocker Spaniels are also born with high instinctive and adaptive intelligence, making them well-rounded dogs that excel at hunting and are great at learning from past experiences.

Cocker Spaniels are one of the few rare dogs to excel in all three dimensions of canine intelligence. And for these reasons, it’s no surprise that they’re among the most popular and intelligent dogs in the world. Read on to find out more.

RECOMMENDED: 100 Smartest Dog Breeds

Measuring the Intelligence of a Cocker Spaniel

As previously mentioned, Cocker Spaniels are classified as “light-colored dogs.” But how exactly did we come to this conclusion? We have not arbitrarily ranked this spaniel. Rather, the term and ranking is largely attributed to Stanley Coren.

According to pHD and researcher Stanley Coren, obedience and work intelligence are based on two main factors. These factors measure how quickly a dog breed learns and how obedient it is to familiar commands.

Coren’s Dog Intelligence Criteria

For Coren’s list of the smartest dogs, he had the help of 199 obedience trial judges from the American and Canadian Kennel Club. Using his criteria, the judges scored and ranked each breed of dog for Coren.

The number of repetitions it takes for a dog breed to learn a new, unfamiliar command. The fewer repetitions, the smarter the dog. The success rate with which a dog breed obeys a known command on the first try. A higher success rate means they are more obedient and smarter.

Despite the overwhelming number of responses, not all dog breeds made it onto Coren’s definitive canine intelligence list. In fact, only dog ​​breeds that received at least 100 responses qualified, meaning less popular breeds were not considered.

Additionally, only dog ​​breeds officially recognized by either the AKC or the CKC could participate in the intelligence trials. Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean mixed breed dogs.

How the Cocker Spaniel performs

Both the American and English Cocker Spaniels scored about the same in the tests. Both breed variants scored in the top 30, landing in the light dog category.

This meant Cocker Spaniels could learn a new command with as little as 5 to 15 repetitions. Not only is this incredibly quick, but it means you can probably be teaching your Cocker Spaniel a simple command in minutes!

Obedience was another consideration in canine intelligence. Coren’s experiments also proved that Cocker Spaniels were also incredibly obedient. They are able to obey a known command on the first try with a success rate of 85% or more.

For reference only, other popular dog breeds in the same intelligence category include the Weimaraner, Bernese Mountain Dog, Spitz, Collie, and both Corgi breeds.

Cocker Spaniels vs. Average Dogs

Now that we know Cocker Spaniels are smart, how do they compare to the average dog breed? Keep in mind that Cocker Spaniels are two categories above the average intelligent dog, which is a significant gap.

The average dog needs 25 to 40 repetitions to learn a new command. In other words, Cocker Spaniels learn at least twice as fast as the average dog.

As far as obedience goes, dogs of average intelligence will obey a known command on the first try with a success rate of 50% or more. This means Cocker Spaniels are about 70% more obedient than the average dog.

There’s nothing wrong with being average. But if you’re curious, some of the most popular dogs of average intelligence are: the Australian Shepherd, Great Dane, Boxer, Dachshund, Siberian Husky, and Pointer.

More reasons Cocker Spaniels are smart

Cocker Spaniels are super obedient, quick learners. But even Stanley Coren admits that there’s so much more to canine intelligence than just that. So what other reasons make Cocker Spaniels such highly intelligent dogs?

Along with obedience and working intelligence, adaptive and instinctive intelligence are also components that make up a dog’s true IQ. Therefore, some argue that these two dimensions of canine IQ are even more important!

Bird hunting requires canine intelligence

Instinctive intelligence refers to the ability or purpose for which a dog breed was bred. Almost all dog breeds were once bred for a specific task and role in society. They should all help us humans. But how is this viewed as canine intelligence?

For example, herding dogs were bred to herd livestock. They were born with natural instincts and the ability to round up sheep and maneuver them in a specific direction – all without additional training. This is instinctive intelligence.

Retrievers will naturally fetch objects. Guard dogs are vigilant and protect their territory. Other dogs are intended only as companions and lap dogs. But depending on the breed of dog, the instinctive intelligence is different.

Cocker spaniels want to hunt with you. They may be more into hunting than agility, so that’s where you need to build their drive and desire for other sports. – Elrohwen (dog forums)

Cocker Spaniels were bred to hunt. Although they are now primarily companion dogs, few owners train Cockers to hunt. Regardless, they are hunters at heart and retain instincts that make them the best bird hunters.

English Cocker Spaniels were originally bred to hunt Eurasian woodcock, hence their name “cocker”. When the American Cocker Spaniels were bred in the United States, they were similarly tasked with hunting American woodcock birds.

According to Gun Dog Mag, Cocker Spaniels are excellent at bird hunting in close cover. They have a keen sense of smell and their instinct is to follow scents carried on the breeze or at ground level.

Cockers hunt in sections instead of sweeping through the area. It’s not a traditional method, but it’s effective on these small dogs. If necessary, however, they can easily be taught to “run the sweeping zigzag pattern of a jumper”.

Check out this Cocker Spaniel tracking and flushing:

The Cocker Spaniel’s Adaptive Intelligence

The final dimension of dog intelligence is adaptive intelligence, which refers to what the dog can learn for itself. It is the dog’s ability to learn from the environment and all of its previous experiences.

Although instinctive intelligence is roughly the same in all dogs of the same breed, adaptive intelligence can vary widely. However, it is common knowledge that most Cockers Spaniels have great adaptive intelligence, as stated by owners.

To illustrate just how high their adaptive intelligence is, one Cocker owner tells us his story, saying:

When we got home the other day, we found our clever little monster in the recycling bin. He emptied the whole thing onto the floor.

What was particularly clever was that the cocker separated the cat food cans to make eating easier. He continues the story by declaring:

“Here’s the best part: He separated everything so the soda cans were in the dining room and the cat food cans were in the dining room. Then he cleaned every single cat food can with his mouth again.”

This is just one example of the high adaptive intelligence of this spaniel breed. I am sure if you ask any Cocker Spaniel owner you will be bombarded with many very similar stories about a high IQ.

These dogs are quick learners—and not just when it comes to obedience training. According to their owners, they are among the best problem solvers in the dogdom.

Is Your Cocker Spaniel Smart?

To get a good idea of ​​just how intelligent Cocker Spaniels really are, we decided to ask the people who would really know: actual owners.

So we trawled the popular Cocker Spaniel sub-Reddit and other dog forums to collect real answers to this question. Here’s what Cocker Spaniel owners had to say:

Answers from real owners:

1. Pravana Says Yes: “Cockers can be stubborn but are very smart. Basil sometimes plays dumb when he’s a mischievous moron, but I know he’s not dumb at all. He just finds everything he does more rewarding than listening to me.”

2. Skilltroks Says Yes: “Cocker Spaniels are smart. I’m sure mine is smarter than me. We ended up locking the bin under the sink so he couldn’t get at it.”

3. Anonymous Says Yes: “I’ve had a lot of dogs, but Marshall was special. Smarter. And the only one who paid attention when I spoke.”

4. SFS_83 says Yes, “My Cocker Spaniel is a little too smart for her own good! She is deceptively smart and I often catch her trying to get me to give her treats! Little smartass…”

5. Onlyhope_ says yes: “There’s nothing stupid about a cocker. They are so good at making sure they get what they want. My 2 year old knows I’m more likely to give treats in different situations. He’s doing a good job picking the time for him to ask.”

6. Liptonice19 Says Yes: “There is absolutely no way anyone would think that cockers are anything other than super intelligent dogs. Don’t get me wrong, I love my dog, but sometimes I think life would be so much easier with a dumber dog.”

7. Beeksya says yes: “I have two cockers. And they are persistent! But extremely smart. Have you ever trained a dog? … be patient, Cockers are wonderful dogs.”

8. Imperiald0g1 says Yes: “I’ve had my Cocker for about 2 years now. He’s a lifesaver but has come a LONG way from the start. The only thing I have learned from owning a Cocker Spaniel is that he is incredibly smart!”

9. Lemeuf Says Yes: “He was smart, determined, playful, thoughtful, loyal and sweet. We were kids when we got him, so as a puppy he would sometimes play with us a bit roughly (biting etc) but as an adult he was really into letting babies pull his ears and mouth.”

10. Zion2015 Says Yes: “Cocker Spaniels are seriously some of the smartest dogs. You have no idea until you raise one. They know exactly what they want and how to tell you.”

Are Cocker Spaniels for me?

Now that we know Cocker Spaniels are smart, are they the dog for you? They are versatile dogs that thrive in the field, but they can make some of the best family dogs. After all, there’s a reason they’re in the top 30 most popular dogs.

While it’s fun to look up how well a particular breed performs among other dog breeds when it comes to canine intelligence, that shouldn’t be the deciding factor when choosing a dog. You really don’t need a dog that smart.

Instead of asking if Cocker Spaniels are intelligent, ask if Cocker Spaniels fit your personality and lifestyle.

That being said, Cocker Spaniels are gentle dogs with a cheerful demeanor that get along with all types of people. Really – they get along with all people and animals, including smaller dogs and even cats (with adequate socialization).

They love to be active and therefore need plenty of physical and mental stimulation on a daily basis. And while training is fun and easy because Cockers like to please and be obedient, it does require some patience and consistency.

If after looking at their temperament you still think Cocker Spaniels are for you, then you should bring one home. They are some of the best dog breeds in dogdom.

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When many people start thinking about owning a cocker spaniel, the first thing that comes to mind is Lady from the movie Lady and the Tramp. All the characteristics of this breed are clearly reflected in the character of the film. Cocker Spaniels are excellent at winning our hearts due to their loyalty, willingness to play, and overall sweet nature.

As with any other pet you would share a home with, there are some distinct advantages and disadvantages to consider when owning a cocker spaniel. If you are considering adding one to your family in the near future, then these are the pros and cons to check out right away.

List of Benefits of Owning Cocker Spaniels

1. Cocker Spaniels are an exceptionally adaptable breed of dog.

The reason Cocker Spaniels are very popular additions to the modern family is because they are adaptable. They do exceptionally well with different personalities and environments without changing their overall nature. Although there are outliers in certain dogs, most of these dogs are good-natured animals that are friendly, affectionate, and obedient.

Most Cocker Spaniels will not bark excessively even when they sense a stranger is on their territory. This makes them an excellent addition to families living in smaller spaces, e.g. B. in an apartment or condominium. You can introduce this breed to seniors, young children, and households that already have other pets with relative ease.

2. This breed loves to please its owners whenever possible.

Cocker Spaniels are a social breed, so they appreciate a family setting where they get plenty of cuddles. This trait also makes them a highly trainable option for households that need a dog that follows a specific behavioral pattern. Although some of them will try to become your master, especially if you adopt an older dog, there are still ways to work with them to build a loving relationship.

You will want to start the training process from the moment you bring your dog home. Then use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage positive behavior change. If you show aggression towards your dog, even if it’s a puppy, the reactions could be contrary to what you expect.

3. They can be a perfect playmate for most kids.

Because the Cocker Spaniel is a medium-sized dog, it’s the perfect size for children aged 8 and up in a family. They are big enough to play outside, run around, and sometimes even wrestle without being too big and causing physical injury. Younger children may be too rough around this breed and teach them inappropriate social cues, but that is your choice with your current situation.

Most families discover that the Cocker Spaniel makes the perfect playmate because they are willing to please, be social and stay active.

4. Cocker Spaniels are typically a healthy, long-lived breed.

Most Cocker Spaniels live long and healthy lives free from the significant health problems found in other breeds. The median lifespan of these dogs is around 15 years, with some individuals living longer than 20 years. Getting a puppy for your family when your children are between the ages of 8 and 10 will truly make them a companion who can guide them through the critical teenage years with unconditional love.

The two most common health issues Cocker Spaniels face are a susceptibility to eye problems and ear infections, both of which are easily treated and can be proactively prevented with some basic hygiene habits.

5. This breed is highly intelligent and has a robust emotional IQ.

Some families complain that their cocker spaniel is sometimes too needy, like they’re attached like Velcro to their alpha human’s side. The reason there is a certain level of clinginess in these dogs is because they can sense the moments when you are feeling anxious, causing them to feel the same way. You have a sixth sense for knowing when you need a cuddle time or a moment of solitude.

Despite these advantages, there are some cockers who are happy to accompany you into any room. If you need to go to the toilet, the dog will be there. It can be comforting to have them at your feet while you watch TV or work on your computer, but it can be problematic if there’s no space between the two of you.

6. Cockers come in a handful of different coat colors.

There are several different versions to consider when looking at Cocker Spaniels, including English and American varieties. The latter has been around since the late 1800s, with breeds developing three distinct color options: black, mixed, or ASCOB — meaning any solid color other than black. Many families in the United States tend to prefer dogs with red, tan, or buff coats, but it won’t be long before you find other options available to you as well.

7. Their fur is silky smooth.

You can always tell if a cocker spaniel is groomed because their coat is silky smooth to the touch. This means they’re lots of fun to pet, which is a trait that sometimes encourages strangers to drop by for a head scratch and an introduction. If you’re not the biggest fan of casual social encounters then you might consider this a downside, but most families love the extra attention.

List of Disadvantages of Owning Cocker Spaniels

1. Some Cocker Spaniels can be overly aggressive with their behavior.

If a cocker spaniel owner lashes out at their dog for any reason, the animal takes that cue as permission to behave in a similar way. Although any dog ​​can become fearful or aggressive when threatened, a failure to build trust with this breed will create a greater likelihood of harm to the rest of the family. One of the most common reasons this breed is brought into shelters or offered for housing is due to potentially dangerous tendencies these pets learn directly from their owners.

2. They don’t like hanging out with rowdy kids.

Because Cocker Spaniels orient themselves to their owners, having young children (under the age of 8) in the home can be a godsend for some families. Although they work well with children when they are quiet, lots of wild energy in the home can inspire the dog to behave in inappropriate ways.

High energy levels can also cause the Cocker Spaniel to have high levels of anxiety, which can lead them to engage in aggressive behavior aimed at family members. It’s not uncommon for a pet in this situation to bite if it feels threatened. Others in this breed tend to become shy with repeated exposure to this energy.

3. Cocker Spaniels need lots of exercise.

You need to give your Cocker Spaniel some time each day to get the exercise necessary for his health. This breed needs at least 20 minutes in the morning and a similar amount of time in the evening to be free to play. There should also be at least one structured walk during the day, and younger dogs might need twice as much commitment.

Cocker Spaniels are often thought of as a breed that roams around a lot during the day, but that’s only true of the older members. This dog is an energetic companion who will love spending as much time with you as possible each day.

4. Thorough grooming is required to maintain his coat.

Cocker Spaniels have a challenging coat, with the long coat requiring frequent grooming to ensure it does not tangle or form knots. If you have an adventurous dog in your home, any seeds and shrubs that are outside in your yard will be tracked inside after playtime. Shedding is also a significant problem in this breed, especially if you have hardwood or laminate floors. Frequent combing and trimming is necessary, and then you should cut grass and weeds short to eliminate the threat of fleas and ticks.

You can do many of these jobs yourself if you have the necessary equipment at home. When you go to a grooming provider, the expense of having a cocker spaniel can add up to a significant portion of your healthcare and maintenance costs.

5. This breed can become food aggressive if you encourage this behavior.

As with other breeds, a cocker spaniel really loves to partake of human food. They can use their cute puppy eyes to encourage a snack from the table every now and then, which then encourages unwanted behavior as they grow up because they expect the treat every time you eat. Despite being a medium-sized dog, they will become pushy and resist training behaviors.

This characteristic also applies to households with several dogs. They are extreme gluttons and refuse to share with others. It’s not uncommon for families to feed their pets in different rooms because of this trait.

6. Some cockers can have significant health problems.

Although most Cockers are healthy and long-lived, there can be a handful of health issues that can be detrimental to some individuals. Some are particularly prone to skin conditions and allergies, in addition to their ear and eye sensitivity. You will need to wash your ears frequently with this breed to limit the number of visits to the vet.

Common eye problems include progressive retinal atrophy, glaucoma, and cataracts. Some dogs can develop inflammatory liver disease, Cushing’s disease, and heart problems. Some of these problems can develop along genetic lines, so try to verify your pup’s lineage whenever you can.

7. Some Cocker Spaniels don’t get along well with other large dogs.

If you already have a dog at home that is significantly larger than a cocker spaniel, this breed may not be the right choice in some situations. The breed’s clingy nature can rub some of the larger dogs the wrong way, so it’s imperative that you give your prospective pet a “test run” to see if they get along with everyone else in the home. Some larger dogs become the protector and best friend of new cockers, but there are some others who are tempted to turn the new pup into a chew toy.

These dos and don’ts of the Cocker Spaniel give potential owners a glimpse into life with this breed. If you want to make sure you always have someone to cuddle with, then these dogs will pay you a lot of attention. The problem is that they can charge just as much in return. If you can give an energetic pup the attention he wants while managing his learned habits from an early age, then this breed can make a welcome addition to a family.

Both types of Spaniel tend to be cheerful, affectionate, and trustworthy and make excellent family pets. Of the two, Cockers are about twice as popular as pets, while Springers take the top spot for the most popular working dogs. One explanation for this is that Cockers have long had a reputation for being harder to train, but today’s Cockers are selectively bred to be more obedient, so that may be changing. All Spaniels can be very springy, and the Cocker’s high energy can be a challenge if you’re new to dogs, but many Springers are just as difficult to train. However, Cocker Spaniels probably have the edge and are often used as therapy dogs.

On a dog runway, Springers and Cocker Spaniels would both be supermodels, although dog experts say that while a good Springer is one of the most attractive dogs, many of them lack looks. In contrast, most Cocker Spaniels are considered beautiful specimens of their breed. Cockers also have the advantage of coming in all sorts of colors, from solid black, brown, and gold to blue and lemon roan.

Perhaps the biggest difference between Springers and Cockers is price. Springers are the bargains in the working gun dog world, with a working Springer puppy costing as little as £300. Most cockers will pay you back twice as much. On the other hand, the Cocker’s lower appetite will ease monthly food bills on the wallet over the course of his lifetime. The Cocker’s smaller size also makes him a practical choice if you have a cozy house, a small car, or plan to have more than one dog.

If you really can’t decide between the two, the Sprocker is the solution. Although the name sounds like a designer hybrid, they are pure spaniels so you get the best of both worlds.

Knight or Cocker? Find us on Facebook or tweet us and let us know.

If your dog follows you everywhere, you know what it’s like to have a familiar four-legged shadow in your home, whether you’re moving from room to room, cooking in the kitchen, or even using the bathroom. Having a constant companion can be comforting, endearing or downright annoying at times, but why does your dog follow you everywhere and is that normal?

Why is my dog ​​following me everywhere?

If your dog follows you everywhere, it is a sign that he trusts and loves you and that you make him feel safe. Following you very closely can be a sign that they are bored, wanting something, scared, or just curious. It is also part of their natural social behavior to observe and follow what you are doing in order to maintain a good relationship with you. Desiring to be around you is normal dog behavior, but some dogs can become overly clingy or even anxious when their owner leaves. There are a number of ways you can help your dog feel more secure, but you should always consult your veterinarian or a behaviorist if you are concerned about them.

your dog loves you

If your dog follows you everywhere, it is most likely a sign that he loves and adores you. When dogs interact with someone they like, the hormone oxytocin is released. Often referred to as the “love hormone,” oxytocin makes you feel that warm glow when you’re with someone you like. Dogs are incredibly social animals and love spending time with their owners. You are your dog’s whole world and being with you is a big part of his life. They make them feel happy, safe and secure and they enjoy spending time with their best friend. While they don’t always know what “personal space” means, the fact that they want to be around you really is quite a compliment.

They get rewards for following you

How do you react when your dog follows you? Do you tend to ignore them, or do you give them a slap, a cuddle, or maybe even a nibble? It’s possible that your dog has learned that he gets good things from following you around. Giving them reassurance, attention, and treats every time they follow you will encourage them to continue doing so.

they are bored

Your dog may be following you because it is looking for something to do. It can be a lot more interesting to see what you’re up to, especially when there’s a chance of a stroke or a treat. Ask yourself if you think your dog is getting enough mental and physical stimulation, and if not, then you may need to find other ways to make life more interesting for him, such as giving him exercise. B. longer or more regular walks, give him chew toys or food puzzles play with.

They want to know what’s going on

Dogs are naturally curious and love to know what’s going on. They follow you because they see you as the person who knows and the gateway to all things exciting. Your dog’s inquisitive nature combined with a severe case of FOMO (fear of missing out) means he’ll often be under your feet, sticking his nose in literally everything.

They are waiting for you

Dogs are great at learning their daily routines. If it’s almost time to go for a walk or be fed, your dog probably knows this and may follow you around the house and rush after you. Dogs are also very good at reading our body language and picking up clues as to what we are up to next. If you have plans to do something they find exciting, they will follow you and hope you do it soon.

They’re trying to tell you something

If your dog is barking, whimpering, or pacing, try to follow it and see where it takes you. It’s possible they need more water, want more food, or need to go outside to use the bathroom. If your dog suddenly starts following you around and is more clingy than usual, it could mean he’s uncomfortable and might need some extra reassurance and love. If you are concerned about their health, you should consult your veterinarian

It’s a natural behavior

It is part of your dog’s natural social behavior to follow you everywhere, to observe and follow what you are doing in order to maintain a good relationship with you. This is called allelomimetic behavior and serves a number of purposes. It’s a way of creating and maintaining social bonds. It’s a self-preservation behavior — being with someone you trust is a good place to be, and copying their behavior is also part of learning.

you are scared

Your dog sees you as his guardian and protector, helping to keep him safe and secure. Certain sounds, like thunderstorms and fireworks, are frightening to some dogs and they may follow you to calm you down. When your dog is scared, they may flatten their ears, widen their eyes, and may be panting more than usual. When they are scared, they may just want to be around you and not eat, drink, or play. There are a number of ways you can help your dog feel comfortable and safe during fireworks and thunderstorms

Does my dog ​​have separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety is a common problem in dogs and is likely to become more common due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Dogs with separation anxiety tend to follow their owners around the house and become more anxious just before their owner leaves and especially after they have left, often showing the following signs:

barking

have accidents in the house

Chewing furniture, shoes, or being generally destructive, especially near windows or the front door

Some dogs may eventually calm down, while others stay that way until you come back. Being stressed on a regular basis can lead to long-term physical and mental health problems. So if you think your dog has separation anxiety, it’s important that you do the difference between a dog that enjoys being with you and a dog that gets scared when you’re not around. Dogs with separation anxiety tend to break down when separated from their owners, and it will affect them both mentally and physically. Separation anxiety is a common problem in dogs and is likely to become more common due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Dogs with separation anxiety tend to follow their owners around the house and become more anxious just before their owner leaves and especially after they have left, often showing the following signs: Being stressed on a regular basis can lead to long-term physical and mental health problems. So if you think your dog has separation anxiety, it’s important that you speak to your veterinarian or an animal behaviorist as soon as possible.

How to help your dog stop following you everywhere

Keep your dog busy. When they’re not busy, try to distract them by giving them a toy, a chew toy, or a food-filled puzzle to play with. If your dog has multiple toys, try a toy rotation system. You could put some away and get them out another time to keep them interesting and exciting

When they’re not busy, try to distract them by giving them a toy, a chew toy, or a food-filled puzzle to play with. If your dog has multiple toys, try a toy rotation system. You could put some away and bring them out another time to keep them interesting and exciting. Try putting up baby gates. These can help your dog adjust to his own company while still being able to see through the gates. If they seem scared, try giving them a toy to play with or a food puzzle to distract them, or start near the gate and gradually move away from their line of sight

These can help your dog adjust to his own company while still being able to see through the gates. If they seem scared, try giving them a toy to play with or a food puzzle to distract them, or start near the gate and gradually move away from their line of sight. Give them a lot of attention. If they stop following you and settle down or start doing something else, give them plenty of encouragement and let them know that they are doing what you want them to do

If they stop following you and settle down or start doing something else, give them plenty of encouragement and let them know they are doing what you want them to think about your behavior. Do you pay attention to your dog when it follows you? If so, you may be unknowingly encouraging them to do so. Try giving them less attention or encouraging them when they calm down or start doing something else

Do you pay attention to your dog when it follows you? If so, you may be unknowingly encouraging them to do so. Try paying less attention to him or encouraging him when he calms down or starts doing something else. Never punish your dog for following you. If they follow you out of fear, it could make them feel more stressed and make the situation worse

If they follow you out of fear, it can make them feel more stressed and make the situation worse. Give your dog plenty of daily exercise. Think about how much exercise your dog gets and how much you think he needs. Try to take your dog for more or longer walks. Throwing a ball or playing a game can help them feel enriched

Think about how much exercise your dog gets and how much you think he needs. Try to take your dog for more or longer walks. Throwing a ball or playing a game can help them feel enriched. Avoid silence. When you go out, leave the TV or radio on for your dog so the house is less quiet and feels more welcoming

When you go out, leave the TV or radio on for your dog so the house is less quiet and feels more welcoming. Teach him to “stay.” Try to encourage your dog to stay where he is, and then slowly build the distance between you. Start with just one step away and gradually build up to being in another room. Give them plenty of encouragement and take your time

Try to encourage your dog to stay where he is, and then slowly build the distance between you. Start with just one step away and gradually build up to being in another room. Give them plenty of encouragement and take your time. Don’t make a fuss. Try not to pay too much attention to your dog when you leave or come home – easier said than done when you are greeted by a dog who is very happy to see you!

Try not to pay too much attention to your dog when you leave or come home – easier said than done when you are greeted by a dog who is very happy to see you! Help them socialize. Give your dog plenty of opportunities to bond with other dogs and people to build their confidence

Give your dog plenty of opportunities to bond with other dogs and people to build their confidence. Teach your dog to go to bed. This can give them a place to go when you need some space. If they need more motivation to stay there, leave toys and treats near their bed to encourage them

This can give them a place to go when you need some space. If they need more motivation to stay there, leave toys and treats near their bed to encourage them. Ask others for help. If your dog is particularly clingy to you, try getting other adult household members to walk the dog

If your dog is particularly clingy to you, try getting other adult household members to walk the dog. Help build your dog’s confidence. Take part in a canine activity such as agility, rally, obedience, or flyball

Take part in a dog activity, e.g. B. Agility, Rally, Obedience or Flyball. Play games indoors. Games like hide and seek or scent work can encourage your dog to enjoy being away from you

. Games like hide and seek or scent work can encourage your dog to enjoy being away from you. Desensitize him to you leaving the room. If your dog gets up when you do it, keep getting up and sitting down until he calms down. Then try to get up and leave the room. When they start following you, walk around the room until they stop following you and get bored. Then try to leave the room. If they follow you, keep walking in and out of the room until they stop following you. Don’t turn it into a game, just ignore them until they get bored

Training your dog to be happy in his own company can take a lot of time and work, but it will help your dog feel more confident. If you’ve tried a number of these techniques and feel like you’re not making any progress, always consult a behaviorist for further advice. The bond between you and your dog is strong and he deserves a lot of positive attention from you, but it’s important that this goes hand in hand with building his confidence and helping him cope when you’re not around. Below are some hints and tips on how you can help your dog feel happier in his own company and give you the space you need sometimes It will help your dog feel more confident. If you’ve tried a number of these techniques and feel like you’re not making any progress, always consult a behaviorist for further advice.

My dog ​​follows me everywhere, so when should I get help?

You think your dog is suffering from anxiety

You are worried about your dog

They are concerned that their behavior will deteriorate

Your dog’s behavior bothers you – it’s okay if you want your own space. Talk to your veterinarian or a behaviorist if:

Which breeds are more likely to follow you?

Some dogs were bred to spend a lot of time with their master, working alongside them and watching their every move for the next instruction, so they may like to stay by your side. This can include:

Hungarian Vizslas

Labrador Retriever

border collies

Golden retriever

Shetland Sheepdogs

Some toy breeds were bred to be lap dogs and may be most comfortable when they are around you and may follow you around waiting for a cuddle. This can include:

Affenpinscher

chihuahuas

Maltese

pugs

French bulldogs

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Breeds bred to guard may also prefer to stay close to their owners, including:

German shepherds

doberman. Humans have been breeding dogs for millennia, resulting in the diversity of breeds we see today. Each breed was created for a specific purpose, with breeders selecting dogs with traits that best fit their function. Over time, these traits become ingrained in their characteristics and can be reflected in many of their day-to-day behaviors. Some breeds may be more likely to follow you around the house simply because it’s part of their nature. Some dogs were bred to spend a lot of time with their master, working side-by-side with them, paying attention to every move for the next assignment and you may want to stay by your side. These could include: Some toy breeds were bred to be lap dogs and may be most comfortable when they are around you and may follow you around waiting for a cuddle. These might include: Breeds bred to guard may also prefer to stay close to their owners, including:

Why is my dog ​​suddenly following me?

If your dog is suddenly following you around the house, it could be a sign that something is wrong. It is possible that they are not feeling well or have a problem with their senses, e.g. B. Problems with their vision or hearing. Your dog may be feeling anxious, afraid of his surroundings, or recently traumatized by a disturbing experience. If this behavior persists, you should have a vet check you out

Why is my puppy following me everywhere?

In order to improve their chances of survival, young animals learn who their caregivers are in important early development phases. If you’ve been caring for your pup since he was very little, chances are he’s imprinted on you and sees you as a parent. When they follow you, they feel safe and secure knowing that you will take care of them.

Why does my dog ​​follow me and nobody else – do dogs choose a favorite person?

If your dog only follows you around the house, chances are you’re the one in your household giving him what he needs most. It can be food, affection, caring, or fun. It’s so simple, you are the one in your household who takes best care of your dog. Take it as a compliment!

Why is my senior dog following me?

As dogs get older, they may need extra reassurance so they know you will take care of them. Pain from arthritis and a reduced ability to see, smell, and hear can make them more dependent on you than before. Some older dogs can also suffer from a form of canine dementia, which can affect their need for comfort. If you are concerned about your dog’s health, always speak to your veterinarian

Why does my rescue dog follow me everywhere?

If your rescue dog follows you around a lot, it’s possible that he needs reassurance that everything will be okay. It’s difficult to know what your dog was going through before he came to you, but he may have had a difficult time in his previous home. If you are concerned about your dog and want to help them feel more secure, always speak to your local qualified dog trainer or behavior consultant.

Why is my dog ​​following me to the toilet?

Your dog may accompany you to a bathroom break because he’s curious about what you’re about to do. Dogs experience the world differently than we do. For them with their heightened sense of smell, a bathroom is full of intriguing smells that are full of interesting information. While a bathroom companion might not be your idea of ​​a stimulating experience, for many dogs it is a treat for the senses.

Why is my puppy following my older dog?

Your puppy may follow along with your older dog as mimicking is natural and an important part of acting as part of a group and plays an important role in social bonding. By following an older dog, they’ll also learn how best to fit into your household, learning all the tricks of the trade and the best spots for a leisurely nap.

find out more

Why is my dog ​​eating grass?

Why is my dog ​​eating poop?

Why is my dog ​​shaking?

Why is my dog ​​staring at me?

Why does my dog ​​lick me so often?

Why is my dog ​​licking my feet?

Why is my dog ​​sneezing so much?

Why does my dog ​​smell like fish? Find answers to some of the other most frequently asked questions on our Why Does My Dog Do? page. hub, such as:

If you are thinking of welcoming a Cocker Spaniel into your life, it doesn’t matter which type you choose, a working or a show type, a puppy or a rescue dog, rest assured that your Cocker will have your heart firmly held becomes. claiming their place on your lap or sofa and life will never be quite the same again. As you may know I am the proud doggy mom to two beautiful Cockers and with Lucia my working Cocker turning 9 months in a few days I thought I’d celebrate by blogging about the differences I see between her and Maya noticed, so far my showcocker.

My first Cocker, Maya, is a blue roan show type, as is typical of her breed, she is compact and well balanced with a square muzzle. low set long (and nice) ears and a slightly rounded skull (although I think Maya’s skull could be a bit more rounded to fit the breed standard perfectly). Their fur is thick and plentiful and I only wish my hair grew that fast! Unfortunately, on her second visit to the hairdresser, Maya was shaved against my will and her fur is somewhat ruined as a result. So, if you want your show cocker spaniel to have a classic, sleek cocker coat, never let anyone get near them with clippers! Despite that she is a real beauty and I think her bad coat days add to her character! But yes, a showcocker is definitely more high maintenance in terms of grooming.

Lucy. My worker is much longer legged with less angulation and has a longer and narrower snout. Their ears are set higher on their skull, which is much flatter. Lucia also has much finer fur that is infinitely more manageable. Some people are curious as to why Lucia has a full tail while most working cockers have their tails docked. The answer is really prosaic – I bought Lucia as a fun dog, not to work as a gun dog, so I was actively looking for a pedigree litter that wasn’t docked. Morally I have nothing against working dogs tail docking, while it is much safer for them as there is a risk of their tail snapping in the undergrowth and brush while working, I personally think a full wobbly oar is much more aesthetically pleasing.

In terms of indoor personality, there is not much choice between them. Affectionate, smart and a bit of a clown, Maya loves her workouts and curls up on the sofa for a nap, playing with Lucia or destroying her toys! Lucia also loves training, but being a bit more agile than Maya, she’s decided that laps are a lot more comfortable than sofas or dog beds! She is also very affectionate and just as sensitive as Maya, which I didn’t expect. Lucia also recently showed us that she can jump up and grab things off the kitchen counter, which to Maya’s disappointment she never managed! Both girls love human company and while I can’t speak for all cockers of course, I think they both really thrive in an environment where someone is around most of the time. Personally, I send my girls to daycare if I’m away for more than a few hours. If I’m honest Lucia is also a bit more willing to please and Maya can be a bit stubborn at times but of course working cockers are bred with a penchant for work. When Lucia is a bit older I definitely need to take her to agility or some other training so she doesn’t mess around! *

It is known that the true difference between them becomes much clearer. Although Maya has plenty of energy when walking and enjoys playing fetch or “finding,” she spends a lot of time sniffing the ground, often stopping to sniff things out, and often moving at a slow trot. Lucia, on the other hand, runs everywhere! She is always alert and wants to engage in an activity. We actually call her the “Ginger Ninja” because she’s so athletic and fast. Lucia also needs and demands a lot more stimulation than Maya ever has, and I think that’s one thing to consider if you’re undecided between the two tribes.

If you are thinking of buying a cocker spaniel puppy, I strongly advise you to buy a KC registered puppy, preferably from a KC approved breeder. Because you can check if the parents had their health checks (BVA/PRA/AMS) and also find out the inbreeding coefficient of the litter through this link. Since both types of Cocker Spaniels are one breed, it is important to ask and verify that the puppy you are interested in is the type of breed you are interested in. Show cockers usually have some “Sh.Ch.” (Show Champions) in their pedigree, while working cockers usually have some “FTCH” (Field Champions) in their pedigree. Remember to see the puppy mom too. I think we should all be responsible buyers and do our part to help preserve the health of the breed as a whole wherever we can. Of course, buying a KC registered puppy will cost a few pounds more, but it will help eliminate puppy farming and irresponsible breeding, and potentially save you a lot of heartache down the road. On the other hand, if you’re one of those special people who thinks of welcoming a rescue cocker into your heart, I’m sure you’ll be rewarded with love and loyalty, regardless of his or her breed.

Luckily Maya and Lucia have a lot more in common than differences and are tough as thieves planning together to trick me or my partner into an extra treat or walk!

What are your thoughts and/or experiences with Cocker Spaniels and other types of Spaniels such as Sprockers, Springers etc.? Why not let us know in the comments below – we’d love to hear.

Dear Sal, Maya and Lucia xxx

Last updated

A breed standard is the guideline that describes a breed’s ideal characteristics, temperament and appearance including proper color and ensures that the breed is functional. Absolute solidity is a requirement. Breeders and judges should be careful at all times to avoid obvious conditions or exaggerations that would be in any way detrimental to the health, welfare or health of that breed.

From time to time certain conditions or exaggerations may be deemed to have the potential to adversely affect dogs of some breeds and judges and breeders are encouraged to refer to Breed Watch information on that breed for details of such current ones to get problems. If a property or quality is desired, it should only be present in the right measure. However, if a dog possesses a trait, quality or color that is described as undesirable or highly undesirable, it is strongly recommended that it not be rewarded in the show ring.

general appearance

Cheerful, robust, athletic; well balanced; compact; Approximately the same height from the withers to the ground as from the withers to the base of the tail.

Characteristics

Cheerful creature with constantly wagging tail, exhibits typical busy movement, especially when following the scent, unafraid of heavy cover.

temperament

Gentle and loving, but full of life and exuberance.

head and skull

Snout square with a clear stop midway between the tip of the nose and the occiput. Skull well developed, cleanly chiselled, neither too fine nor too coarse. Cheekbones not prominent. Nose broad enough for a strong fragrance.

Eyes

Full but not flashy. Dark brown or brown, never light, but in the case of liver, liver roan and liver and white, dark hazel to harmonize with the coat; with an expression of intelligence and gentleness, but wide awake, bright and cheerful; rims tight.

ears

Lobules set low at eye level. Fine leather up to the tip of the nose. Well dressed with long straight silky hair.

mouth

Strong jaws with a perfect, regular and complete scissor bite, i. H. the upper teeth closely overlap the lower teeth and are perpendicular to the jaw.

neck

Moderately long, muscular. Neatly set in gently sloping shoulders. clean throat.

forequarter

Shoulders sloping and fine. Legs good-boned, straight, short enough for concentrated strength. Not too short to disrupt the tremendous exertion expected of this magnificent, athletic dog.

Body

Strong, compact. chest well developed and chest deep; neither too wide nor too narrow at the front. Ribs well sprung. Loin short, broad with a firm, level backline, sloping gently to the tail from the bottom of the loin to the base of the tail.

hindquarters

Broad, well rounded, very muscular. Legs well built, good squat, just below the hocks allowing plenty of thrust.

Foot

Firm, thickly padded, feline.

tail

Set on slightly lower than the line of the back. Must be cheerful in action and carried at eye level, never tense. Previously commonly docked. Docked: Never too short to hide, nor too long to disrupt the non-stop happy action at work. Undocked: Slightly arched, of moderate length, proportional to body size, giving an overall balanced appearance; ideally not reaching below the hock. Strong at the root and tapering to a fine point; well feathered to match the coat. Lively in action, carried on a plane no higher than back height and never so low as to indicate timidity.

gait/movement

Accurate through action with great drive that covers the ground well.

a coat

Flat, silky in texture, never wiry or wavy, not too lush and never curly. Forelegs, body and hind legs well feathered above hocks.

colour

Solid Colors: Black; red; golden; liver (chocolate); Black and tanned; liver and tan. White is not allowed except for a small amount on the chest. Particolours Bicolours: black and white; orange and white; liver and white; lemon and white. All with or without a tick

tricolors: black, white, and tan; liver, white and brown

mold: blue mold; orange mold; lemon mold; liver mold; blue roan and tan; Liver mold and tan Any color or pattern other than those mentioned above is undesirable.

size

Approximate Size: Dogs: 39-41 cm (15½-16 in); Females: 38-39 cm (15-15½ in). Approx. weight: 13-14.5 kg (28-32 lbs).

mistake

Any deviation from the foregoing should be considered a fault and the seriousness with which the fault should be considered should be in fair proportion to its magnitude and its effect on the dog’s health and welfare and on the dog’s ability to perform its duties to do traditional work.

note

Male animals should have two apparently normal testicles that are fully descended into the scrotum.

*Note to potential puppy buyers

Spaniels can quickly become destructive if not entertained.

But they’re active, energetic, and alert dogs, and won’t stop playing until they’re literally exhausted—traits that make your pup difficult to entertain (especially before vaccinations).

…How can you stimulate them mentally without taking them on miles of hikes every night?

As well as walking your spaniel puppy for at least 60 minutes every day, you can also play these fun games with your spaniel puppy to keep him out of trouble at home:

Let’s take a look at them.

This post contains affiliate links. Please read my full disclosure here.

1. Hide and seek 🐾

One of our favorite puppy training games is good old hide and seek. But instead of hiding in your house and waiting for your friends to come after you, your pup will try to sniff out your hiding spot!

(That’s why it’s also a great indoor training game for your pup. He doesn’t need a lot of outdoor space, nor do you have to follow him in the rain to play.)

In order to play this game with your Sprocker pup, you need to train him to stay. Use the “stay” command to make sure he doesn’t follow you to your hideout, then call your dog to signal it’s time to come and find you.

When they do, praise them. They followed her orders and used their sleuthing skills to find you. You deserve a reward for this hard work!

2. Tug of War 🐶

Tug of war is a great puppy training game because it teaches impulse control and manners.

Grab a rope or long toy and let your pup hold his jaws on it. Who can last the longest?

There is a myth surrounding this game: tug-of-war can make dogs aggressive. While that makes sense (they test their snap and stubbornness), the opposite is true. In fact, research from the University of Bristol found that dogs that play tug of war are usually more obedient and confident than those that don’t.

However, this spaniel game comes with a warning: don’t be too harsh on your dog’s teeth. They can have weak teeth (puppies especially) that could break if pulled too hard, so know your dog’s limits before yanking that chew toy out of his mouth.

Sprocker puppies have also coined the nickname “Sprockerdile”. They’re particularly fond of chewing and biting during their puppyhood—a behavior that tug-of-war could exacerbate if not played properly.

Always be sure to stop play if your pup’s teeth touch your hand. This may be as little as 30 seconds without play, but it will teach them to associate biting you (not the toy) with the end of playtime… Meaning they’ll break their Sprockerdile habits fast!

3. Brain Training 🧠

While it’s recommended that spaniels be exercised for more than 60 minutes a day, not everything should be in the form of physical activity (like running).

Spaniels need a lot of mental stimulation to be happy dogs.

(Not just happy dogs, happy owners too! Over 90% of pet owners in the UK say they feel happy owning a pet – but that won’t happen if your pup is being destructive because they’re bored. )

A great way to incorporate this mental stimulation into your routine is with a little brain training. This can be done without any tools, for example: Take three plastic cups and hide a treat underneath. Slowly swap cups and ask your dog which cup contains the treat.

But if you want your dog to play independently and use his own initiative, there are toys you can buy specifically for mental stimulation, such as toy toys. B. Puzzles (where your dog has to move things to get the treat).

4. Find the treat 🍪

Another puppy training game you could play with your new sprocker follows the same “brain training” theme.

This time, you’ll tell your dog to stay (and help him practice this command) while you hide a treat somewhere in your house. Instead of sniffing around to find you, they’re looking for a juicy snack.

This is another game that you can play indoors when the weather isn’t on your side. Just grab some treats from your Sprocker’s daily ration and sprinkle them all over your house.

…How fast can you find them? (The answer may surprise you!)

Looking for treat ideas? We’ve rounded up 10 delicious homemade dog treats your pooch will love.

5. Get 🎾

Fetch is an ancient puppy game that teaches your dog basic training commands such as:

“Leave” or “Discard”

“Bring”

“Sit”

“Wait”

You can play fetch with anything from a Frisbee to a tennis ball.

Practicing these commands is a great way to develop a strong bond with your new pup – especially if you’re playing fetch in a large yard before he’s allowed to go for a walk. They’ll learn to come back to you after you call and drop whatever they picked up along the way that shouldn’t be in their mouth!

6. DIY agility course 🎪

Sprocker Spaniels are known for their success in agility training. Training centers across the UK run some form of agility class, but you don’t always have to take your dog to an official event to practice.

You can create your own DIY agility course from the comfort of your own back garden or local park!

Grab a handful of cones, seesaws and tunnels and set them up in your yard. Allow your pup to try out his new toy, and then begin to get him to use the idea.

You might need a few treats to get them through tunnels or slides, but once they’re on, you’ll have trouble picking them up again!

7. Treats 👅

Leak mats are pieces of plastic that contain small grooves.

The goal is to fill your dog’s lick mat with their favorite food and allow them to work their nose trying to get it out.

Put some tasty toppings on your lick mat and let your pup lick them off. It’s a great way to add some nutritional enrichment to your daily routine!

What’s your favorite puppy training game?

As you can see, there are many different training games that you can play with your pup.

Whether you’re stuck indoors on a rainy day or want to build up some basic command training before your pup is allowed out in public, these games are sure to create a strong bond between you and your new pet.

Many dogs shed to some degree, but Cocker Spaniel shedding is something to consider if you are interested in this beautiful sporting breed. One look at the Cocker Spaniel’s coat and you’ll see lush, flowing strands of hair. I’ve owned Cockers for 30 years so you know all about if Cockers shed, how much and how often.

Cocker Spaniels do shed, but the amount they shed depends on the dog’s coat, how often they are brushed and bathed, and sometimes their overall health. It also depends on whether you have an English Cocker Spaniel or an American Cocker Spaniel. Cocker spaniels have a single coat, unlike some other dog breeds, which have a double coat. This applies to both the English and American Cocker Spaniel breeds.

Although they can fall off, there are other things to consider with the cocker coat. Their coat is extremely thick, full and requires careful grooming. Cockers require frequent grooming visits and grooming because the breed is very hairy.

Here’s everything you need to know about Cocker Spaniel shedding and how to manage it, plus some bonus tips and products to keep a Cocker Spaniel’s coat in tip-top shape all year round.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links (Amazon Associate or other programs we participate in). As an affiliate, I receive a small commission from qualifying purchases.

What is the Cocker Spaniel Shedding Level?

On a scale of 1 to 10, with 1 being the least and 10 being the most, Cocker Spaniels score around a 3 to 4. Yes, Cocker Spaniels shed, but the amount they shed depends on the individual dog. Longtime Cocker groomer Kim Vavolo says cockers shed more hair in the spring and fall.

“We’re not a shedding breed like a Siberian Husky, nor are we shedding like a Labrador Retriever,” says cocker spaniel groomer and breeder Marlene Ness. “Dogs shed hair like humans, so cockers need regular brushing to remove the dead hair.”

My first cocker spaniel, a red and white, wasn’t a big shedder. My second Cocker Spaniel, a bi-colored male, sheds easily a few times a year. I know about his hair loss because I can find his white fluffy hairs all over my lap when I’m wearing black pants.

What type of coat does the Cocker Spaniel have?

“Cocker Spaniels are not a double-coated breed,” says Patricia Elkins, a longtime Cocker breeder/owner/handler/groomer. She says a Cocker coat shouldn’t be compared to a typical “double coat” like a severe shedding breed like Labrador Retrievers or Siberian Huskies.

She reminds pet owners that different hair texture on the dog’s body does not represent a double coat. An easy way to remember that a double coat is a cotton coat underneath the top coat, like Collies, Huskies, and Corgis.

The texture of the American Cocker Spaniel coat is important. The coat is silky, straight or slightly wavy, and has an easy-care texture. She is a “moderately coated sporting dog” according to the American Cocker Spaniel Club’s official “Blue Book,” which discusses the breed standard and coat evaluation.

Nowhere in the American Spaniel Club’s official “Blue Book” is it mentioned that the Cocker Spaniel is double coated. She is not.

The Cocker Spaniel is progressively more hairy and excessive or cottony coats are discouraged.

With all that thick hair, some of it will fall off and “shed”. There are two types of Cocker Spaniels: the American Cocker and the English Cocker Spaniel. Both breeds shed quite a bit comparatively, but not to the extent of a heavily shedding breed like the German Shepherd (sometimes referred to as “German Shedders” by their owners).

Are Cocker Spaniels Hypoallergenic?

No, Cocker Spaniels are not hypoallergenic. There is no breed or dog that is 100 percent hypoallergenic (unlikely to cause an allergic reaction) for its owners. Every dog ​​has to shed some of their fur at some point.

Dogs that shed less or very little are considered hypoallergenic. Some people confuse less hair loss with being hypoallergenic, which is not true.

The proteins in a dog’s saliva, dander, and urine cause people to have an allergic reaction, not their fur. No breed of dog is 100 percent hypoallergenic.

How are English Cockers and American Cockers different?

Both English Cocker Spaniels and American Cocker Spaniels have a single coat, not a double coat. In terms of hair, the American Cocker has more hair in its coat and is much longer with more feathers than the English Cocker.

Both races lose equally, but here are some notable differences between the races:

American Cocker Spaniel English Cocker Spaniel Longer coat Shorter coat Shorter muzzle Longer muzzle Taller than English Cocker Slightly shorter than American Cocker Longer neck Shorter neck than American Cocker

American Cocker Spaniel

English cocker spaniel

Cocker Spaniel Hair or Fur: What’s the Difference?

We know cockers shed, but do they shed fur or hair? Some breeds have hair instead of fur, but the Cocker Spaniel has hair. Fur tends to be shorter and denser. The hair feels finer and much smoother than fur.

Dog hair and fur are both made of a powerful protein called keratin. Although there is no chemical difference between hair and fur, people seem to call it hair when it’s long, but fur when it’s shorter. An example of a dog breed with fur is the Pomeranian.

Dogs with hair need more regular brushing, and the Cocker Spaniel is no exception. A Cocker Spaniel in a full coat will need to be brushed three times a week for at least half an hour. You need to keep your cocker’s hair free of dirt and mats, especially if you plan to keep it in a fuller coat.

For those planning to exhibit Cocker Spaniels in the show ring, the American Spaniel Club breed standard calls for a “sufficient but not excessive coat.” Over the years, they’ve noticed that show cockers seem to wear heavier coats.

When Will My Cocker Spaniel Puppy Lose His Puppy Coat?

“When a Cocker Spaniel puppy is between 8 and 12 months old, you may see a little more hair than normal when you brush it,” says Marlene Ness. “You may notice the change in the ‘fluffy’ puppy hair, which is when people notice their Cocker puppy’s coat changing.”

In general, Cocker puppies do not suddenly “bloat” their fur, so the shedding factor is low. As they grew up and into their more developed adult coat, they began to shed, but not intensely. Again, all Cocker Spaniel shedding is easy, and no two dogs are the same.

Teach your Cocker puppy that grooming and brushing are fun. Use a soft brush on their fur to get them used to being touched. Touch her paws, her face, her head and do this regularly. She will experience touch throughout her life, from the nursing table to the vet’s office, so start acclimating her to touch early on.

Why is my Cocker Spaniel shedding so much?

There are many reasons a Cocker sheds excessively and one of them could be that they need more regular brushing. When you stroke her hair, you stimulate the skin’s oils and increase blood flow.

Regular brushing and grooming also keeps mats away and is much more comfortable for cockers. I’m not a professional groomer, but I’ve learned to groom my dog ​​at home and will share my favorite grooming tools, brushes, and tips below.

A Cocker Spaniel that loses too much may have a problem with their thyroid, a common problem in the breed. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid is underactive. One of the many symptoms of canine hypothyroidism is hair and skin changes.

according to dr Jean Dodds, author of The Canine Thyroid Epidemic, “Common skin and coat problems in hypothyroid dogs include excessive shedding, a dry, dull, brittle coat, and hyperpigmentation (darkening) of the skin.

Take your cocker for a thyroid check if he is shedding excessively. The thyroid is very important and is located in the upper third of the dog’s neck. We have written about thyroid problems in dogs and you can click on that article for more information.

Cockers need access to cool, clean water at all times. Dehydration leads to dry skin, and dry skin leads to itching and hair loss. If your Cocker isn’t the world’s best water drinker, there are easy ways to improve their drinking habits. How to get your dog to drink more water.

Cockers who lose a lot may need a diet change. Cockers are notorious for food intolerances and allergies that cause itching. If your cocker eats a poor quality diet or is excessively itchy, he may shed more.

Can Fish Oil Help My Cocker Spaniel Shed?

Most dogs benefit from adding fish oil to their diet. My Cocker Spaniel has a luxurious coat that everyone comments on when they meet him. “He’s so soft,” they say as I beam proudly from the other end of the leash.

Some of the benefits of having a quality omega-3 fish oil as part of a dog’s diet include:

Shiny coat

Less dry skin

Reduction of hair loss

Allergy Control

Prevention and treatment of autoimmune diseases

Helps dogs with idiopathic epilepsy when taken regularly

cancer prevention

Here you can learn more about fish oil and dogs, what brand we use and how it can help with excessive hair loss.

Care for Cocker Spaniels

Make friends with a groomer who knows how to get the cocker cut you want. Some people like a sporty cut, others prefer the long, flowing curls. More hair = more hair to fall out. However, I know many longer coated Cocker Spaniels that shed minimally. A well-groomed cocker means less dandruff to worry about.

If you want to try grooming your cocker at home, start slowly. When I took on the task of learning to groom my Cocker Spaniel at home, I did it with a marathon mindset: slow and steady. Cocker moms and dads often ask me how they can learn to clip their dog at home and I usually ask why they want to learn it. When it comes to saving money, that’s a good reason in the long run, but it shouldn’t be the only reason, at least not at first.

This is how I learned to groom my Cocker Spaniel at home.

Bathe your Cocker Spaniel regularly but not excessively as the skin can actually dry out. Not all shampoos are made equal, and it’s best to invest in something that cares for your dog’s coat. For the average Cocker owner I always recommend what I use:

ZYMOX shampoo

ZYMOX Leave On Conditioner

Be careful with chemicals on and in your Cocker Spaniel. I’m not a fan of chemical based chemicals and don’t let my dog ​​use it if I can’t (with the exception of heartworm prevention).

Chemicals in traditional flea and tick patches can harm a dog, but they can also dry out their skin and coat. I had an illuminating experience reading through a chemical spot-on many years ago. The instructions required me, the pet owner, to wear gloves before handling the product.

Here’s our more natural flea and tick program with no harmful chemicals.

Dexter shows off some of his grooming tools

Products to combat hair loss in Cocker Spaniels

Here are some of our favorite products to control Cocker Spaniel shedding:

BEST CONTAINING DOG SHAMPOO

We prefer: Furminator Ultra Premium Deshedding Shampoo – Gentle and enriched with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that promote healthy skin and coat while reducing hair loss.

BEST BLADE FOR DOGS

We Prefer: Safari Leaf Hair on Both Sides – It quickly and easily removes loose, dead hair from your dog’s coat.

BEST SMOOTH BRUSH FOR DOGS

We prefer: Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush – Slicker brushes like this one are for medium to long haired breeds like the Cocker Spaniel. I use this brush several times a week.

BEST FISH OIL FOR DOGS

We prefer: Dr. Harvey’s Health & Shine Omega 3 Fish Oil – Made in the USA from wild-caught mackerel, herring, anchovies and sardines; Caught from the clean and icy waters of Iceland.

BEST HAIR REMOVER FOR DOGS

We prefer: DELOMO Pet Hair Remover Roller – No more sticky sheets. Completely clean your furniture by rolling it back and forth several times. Easy to use and empty.

The bottom line on discarding cockers

Yes, Cocker Spaniels do shed, but not excessively as a rule of thumb. My dog, Dexter, is kept in an athletic cut sometimes referred to as a puppy cut and he serves me well for coat maintenance and the general shedding factor which is minimal.

My Dexter in “sporty puppy cut”

Bark back in the comments below and let me know about your Cocker Spaniel and how you control dandruff.