Cocker Spaniel Dog Breed Facts & Information

By Rover Staff

With brains, beauty, and a coif to die for, Cocker Spaniels have all of the cuteness and class to make them one of the most popular breeds in the United States. Though initially developed as a hunting dog, they’re now best known for making wonderful companions for all kinds of people. They are also able to thrive in all kinds of environments and spaces, so long as they are given plenty of love, attention, and exercise.

Is a Cocker Spaniel the right kind of dog for you? There are a lot of things to consider when adding a dog to your life, so we’ve covered just about everything you’ll need to know in this in-depth breed profile.

Breed Characteristics

Key

Low
Medium
High

Origin: Spain
Size:
Weight: 24-28 pounds
Lifespan: 12 o 15 years
Breed group: Sporting Group
Activity level:
Barking/howling level:
Good with dogs: yes
Good with kids: yes
Good with cats:
Shedding:
Easy to groom:
Easy to train:
Protective:

Cocker Spaniel Appearance

There’s no denying that Cocker Spaniels are beautiful dogs – with their fluffy, soft coats and lovely coloring. Their fur is thick and often wavy, and when they are well-groomed it will be trimmed shorter on the head and back, and longer on the ears, chest, belly, and legs.

They’re a nice, medium sized breed, generally maxing out at 15 inches high, and weighing around 26 pounds on average. Their coats usually come in a solid color like black, brown, red, or light cream – or they can be a combination of white with another color (white and red, white and black, etc.).

And of course nothing is sweeter than this pup’s soft, long ears, and warm, expressive eyes – we dare you to try and resist a Cocker Spaniel asking you for a treat!

Cocker Spaniel Personality

There is a reason why these gentle, good-looking pups are so popular with people all over the world – they’re not just a pretty face, they actually have a sparkling personality to match.

They are known to have a sweet temperament, and are cuddly and affectionate with the ones they love. Cockers also have a fun and goofy side, and will love spending time playing games, exercising, and snuggling up close.

They do have a couple of quirks to be mindful of, including that they’re sensitive, and don’t respond well at all to harsh treatment, which can make them extra nervous, submissive, and defensive. This sensitivity or “softness” is why it’s essential to socialize and train your cocker, helping them be their best selves by understanding how to deal with different situations.

Ideal Environment for a Cocker Spaniel

This is a fairly versatile breed, so Cockers are able to live in apartments – so long as they are given ample outdoor time everyday (they have a lot of energy, after all). And if you are in an apartment or other close living quarters situation you’ll need to focus on teaching your Cocker quiet behavior. They have a tendency to bark, especially when they’re bored or restless – which we’re sure your neighbors won’t love.

They would also thrive in a house with a big fenced yard that they can frolic around in. The “fenced” part is important since, if given the chance, this breed is likely to chase birds all over town – it’s in their genes afterall.

Ideal Human for a Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are excellent for all kinds of humans because of their friendly personalities, affectionate nature, and intelligence. They love family members who want to spend time with them (whether that’s hiking, playing games, or just cuddling on the couch), and will be happiest with humans who will take the time to train them so they can reach their full potential.

They are wonderful for families, seniors, and even first time dog owners. They can also make great therapy dogs if they are socialized at an early age.

Cocker Spaniel Dog Training

Cockers are considered a “soft” breed, so it’s important to be gentle, consistent, and encouraging when training them, as any harsher methods will make them fearful and skittish. They love rewards and treats, and since they’re such an intelligent breed, they’ll be great at agility courses or other entertaining games and exercises.

Another thing to consider – Cockers can easily become barkers, so you’re definitely going to want to include training around the “Quiet” command, teaching them how to respond appropriately.

By taking the time to socialize and train this breed, you’ll make them feel comfortable and safe with you as they explore the world, and they’ll gain the confidence to be the well-adjusted, well-behaved pup you know that they can be. Above all this breed really just wants to please their loved ones, and their smarts and charm mean that any effort you put into training them will be well worth it.

Cocker Spaniel Grooming

This breed is adored for their beautiful coat, but keeping that coif looking it’s best takes a lot of time and money! They aren’t the easiest to groom so you’re going to want to take them to a professional groomer about every six weeks for a bath and a trim.

Make sure you also brush them at home daily (to keep aways tangles and knots), and keep a close eye on their ears, as they’ll need to be cleaned regularly since they’re prone to ear infections.

Cocker Spaniel Health

Cocker Spaniels are a fairly healthy breed, but they do have a few possible health issues that you should lookout for. including eye problems like progressive retinal atrophy and glaucoma, Hypothyroidism, epilepsy, hip dysplasia, and a variety of allergies.

Despite sometimes encountering these health issues, using a reputable breeder (if you’re using a breeder) can help cut down the possibility of your dog having these problems. Cockers generally live from 12 to 15 years, and with the proper exercise, food, and regular trips to the vet, your pup will have a good chance at a long and happy life.

Cocker Spaniel Breed History

Cocker Spaniels originated in Spain, and descended from the Spaniel family. Spaniels were divided into two groups in the 1800s: one group for companion dogs, and the other for large hunting dogs. Then the hunting dogs were separated into land and water spaniels, with Cocker Spaniels earning their name because of their impressive woodcock-hunting talents.

Cocker Spaniels became very popular in the United States after Brucie, a black Cocker, won the Best American Breed in Show at the Westminster Dog Show in 1939. After that win, the breed’s popularity soared, and they continue to be much-loved to this day.

Getting a Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniel breeders

It’s pretty common that once you bring one cocker spaniel into your family, you’re then hooked on this breed for life. However, the popularity of Cockers has led to poor breeding and many health conditions, which is why it’s essential to find a reputable breeder who tests their breeding dogs for genetic health conditions and good temperaments.

It’s also a good idea to meet the parents of your puppy, and to see how the litter interacts with each other. Also, a good, trustworthy breeder should have records of the parents’ lineage, too and should be able to tell you more about the specific mix of the litter.

If going to a breeder be sure to find one that supports early socialization such as ENS or Puppy culture. And one that health and genetic tests including eyes and hips of parents. Make sure you wise up on puppy mills and internet scams—following some simple steps can help avoid further funding of this terrible practice, and help you end up with a pet whose breeding and early-life experience will more reliably result in a well-adjusted dog.

Adopting a Cocker Spaniel

As with many highly popular breeds, Cocker Spaniels often find their way to rescue centers for a variety of reasons, including dogs being rescued from puppy mills. But often it’s the simple fact that their previous owners simply felt unable to care for them any longer, perhaps due to a change in lifestyle or health.

In fact, there are Cocker-specific rescues across the United States because many pet owners aren’t prepared for the high energy of this breed. A Cocker Spaniel can make for a wonderful friend and they’re sure to be a source of joy, with plenty of laughs and perhaps a little bit of mischief along the way. Surrendered dogs are often already well trained and simply in need of a new, loving home, so rescuing is always a wonderful option.

Whether you’re planning on adopting or finding a breeder to find a puppy, prepare yourself, your home and your heart to welcome a dog with plenty of personality and energy.

More on Cocker Spaniels

If you’re simply in love with Cocker Spaniels, then you’ll be craving what we’ve got for you next. From the 10 reasons why Cockers are the best, to grooming tips for their beautiful coif, to the best names for your pup and more:

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