Cocker Spaniel Fact Center

Although the Cocker was originally developed in the United Kingdom, today’s American version is so different from the English, they are now separated as Cocker Spaniel and English Cocker Spaniel (American Cocker Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel in the UK!).

Bred to flush upland game birds, particularly the woodcock from which the breed gained its name, the Cocker’s compact size allowed it to go easily into the brush. Due to its heavy coat and competition from other intense canine hunters, few are used in a hunting capacity today, but hunt tests allow owners to see if their dogs do retain the instinct.

Originally a merry and vivacious breed, the Cocker’s reputation has been sullied by poor breeding practices and for a period of time they were considered shy with a tendency to bite; a poor label for what was once a wonderful companion breed. Now dedicated breeders are intent upon keeping the “merry” in Cockers. This is a breed where it really pays to do your homework ahead of time and investigate the best breeders. A Cocker from the right lines will enhance your life and keep you smiling with his constantly wagging tail.

Well-bred Cockers are friendly, happy and loving. They enjoy the company of other dogs. Their noses can sometimes lead them into trouble: the saying “curiosity killed the cat” has nothing on Cockers! If bored, they can find outlets for their energy such as entertaining the neighbors with a barking, whining solo, digging for gold or other treasures in the yard or de-feathering a pillow.  (Welcome home!)

The Cocker’s long, glamorous coat can be black, red, buff, chocolate, black and tan or parti-colored black, red or chocolate with white and/or tan markings. The little docked tail wags constantly. In Europe and other places, docking is illegal so the tail is long with feathering.

“Hey, we’ll do whatever you want to do,” is the claim of Cockers, be it flyball, agility, tricks, obedience, therapy, freestyle or simply catch with a ball or a Frisbee – whatever strikes your fancy. The important thing is spending time together. With Cockers a busy mind – and body – makes a content dog. Be cheerful and your pup will be too. Take a break and just enjoy each other.

Ears need to be cleaned frequently. Check with a veterinarian or your dog’s breeder to learn the proper way. Daily brushing keeps the coat healthy and shiny and finds mats at an early stage. A matted Cocker is not pretty, feels uncomfortable and likely has health problems.

Eye anomalies can be a problem, along with occurrences of hip dysplasia and epilepsy.

Flush, Elizabeth Barrett’s Cocker who disdained her husband Robert Browning; Checkers, Richard Nixon’s pup in his infamous speech; Lady of the Lady and the Tramp