Cocker spaniels are energetic, good-natured, and gorgeous—the ideal size for many households. Cocker spaniels are incredibly trainable and affectionate, making them an excellent choice for families. Learn more about this breed in our cocker spaniel facts for kids’ article.
Cocker Spaniel Facts 1-10
1. The cocker spaniel was first mentioned in the 14th century and originated in Spain.
In the 1800s, they were classified into two categories: companion animals (for play) and hunting dogs.
2. The cocker spaniel, sometimes known as the American cocker spaniel, is a descendant of the English cocker spaniel.
The term “cocker” originates from the woodcock, a prey bird that these canines successfully chased out for hunters.
3. It is believed that cocker spaniels were brought to North America by the pilgrims. In reality, the American Spaniel Group was founded in 1881, making it the nation’s oldest breed club.
4. Cocker spaniels were brought to the USA in the late 19th century and were still regarded as the same breed as their English counterparts.
5. The cocker spaniel and the English cocker spaniel are now regarded as separate breeds since American breeders selected for smaller size, a thicker coat, and a rounder head.
The cocker spaniel is the smallest of sporting dogs and smaller than its English counterpart.
6. Although cocker spaniels are still regarded as a proficient hunting and sports breed, they are more commonly kept as family pets. Their popularity increased significantly after the Second World War.
7. The American Kennel Club recognized the American cocker spaniels and English cocker spaniels as separate breeds in 1946.
8. Males are approximately 15 inches tall and weigh approximately 13 kilograms or 28 pounds; females are approximately 14 inches tall and weigh approximately 11 kg or 25 pounds.
9. The cocker spaniel has a gracefully round head and a large, square muzzle. The dog has a majestic look due to its long, feathery ears and back that slopes toward the tail.
The cocker spaniel has a long, silky coat with feathering not only on the legs, chest, and bottom but also on the ears. Tails are typically docked.
10. Cocker spaniels are available in a range of hues. Some are completely black, crimson, or tan.
Others are tinted in two or three colors. Black-and-tan, black-and-white, and black-and-white with flecks of tan are examples of possible mixtures.
The AKC classifies them as black, particolored, and ASCOB (Any Solid Color Other than Black) for show purposes.
Cocker Spaniel Facts 11-20
11. Cocker spaniels are noted for being calm, laid-back, and affectionate, while yet being energetic. They are typically seen as being nice to kids.
They are often non-aggressive towards other animals and humans, which means they are not particularly effective as guard dogs.
12. While they do possess a hunting urge, they are happiest when they are companions at home.
13. Cocker spaniels were formerly so popular that they were overbred, resulting in some anxious and unhealthy dogs.
14. Cocker spaniels appreciate attention, so owners who lavish their pets with affection should consider this breed.
15. They shed an average amount of fur. They have a complex coat that requires at least a couple of hours of grooming per week to maintain its condition. There is a need for occasional professional grooming.
Avoid exercising cocker spaniels in areas containing burrs and thickets that might tangle the coat.
16. As long as they receive daily walks on a leash or are permitted to play in a fenced yard, Cocker spaniels can adjust to almost any living situation. Remember that they are mostly a breed used for sports.
17. When worried, they may resort to unwanted behaviors such as barking, crying, and more when left alone. They will dig or bark if left outside to occupy themselves.
18. They require a great deal of exercise because they are (or were) hunting dogs.
A minimum of 30 minutes of daily walking and quality time spent playing fetch are optimal for their health.
19. As cocker spaniels age, they are susceptible to heart, liver, and kidney failure, and even cancer.
Progressive retinal atrophy (causes blindness), epilepsy, and cataracts can also affect Cocker spaniels (which require expensive surgical correction). In addition, they suffer from allergies, ear infections, and obesity.
20. The average lifespan of a cocker spaniel is between 14 and 16 years.