The English Cocker Spaniel dog – Your handsome and energetic buddy
The English cocker spaniel dog is a high-spirited breed and are most admired for their dashing looks and a charming personality. Since they have such a happy, affectionate and a loyal temperament they have been given the nickname of ‘the Merry Cocker’.
They are a great breed for a family. Cocker Spaniels are very good with children and are an ideal pet for first time pet parents.
Appearance
The English Cocker Spaniel is a compactly built sporting dog. The males stand 16 to 17 inches at the shoulder and the females between 15 and 16 inches. The males weigh between 28 to 34 pounds and the females weigh between 26 to 32 pounds.
Their medium length coat can be seen in various colours and patterns and is very silky to touch. The thick and wavy coat must be brushed regularly and requires periodic grooming.
Origin
The English Cocker Spaniel was first developed in England as a working dog during the late 1800s. Due to the differences between appearance and size, the English Cocker Spaniel was recognised as a separate breed from the American Cocker Spaniel in 1946.
Personality
The Cockers are happy, energetic and easy-going dogs which make them an ideal pet for families. They are friendly with strangers and make good companions for children. Cocker Spaniels are also very easy to train and since they love being with people they will be excited to go with them everywhere.
Activity requirements
To be healthy and happy, the cockers require daily exercise. Though they are small, they are not very happy to stay in an apartment or a condo. This breed loves to stay in a house that has plenty of space for it to run around.
Cockers are very good in agile and tracking activities. They are an intelligent breed who enjoy activities that stimulate their mind and body.
Trainability
Cockers are very easy to train, especially when the reward comes in the form of food. One particular thing to make a note of is that this breed is very sensitive and take it badly when anyone treats them harshly. This may result in avoidance behaviours and also retaliation. Remember that positive reinforcement is the best way to train a Cocker Spaniel.
Behavioural traits
One thing that owners of Cocker Spaniels must never forget to do is to exercise them regularly. If they do not get enough exercise to burn the excess energy it may lead to anxiety issues, barking, howling and destructive chewing if they are alone at home.
Cockers always need people around them and if they are not exercised enough will develop severe separation anxiety. So, these breeds are ideal for families that have a stay at home member or for people who do not work long hours.
Barking is a major problem with cockers, even if they are not alone. Apart from this they are excellent watchdogs. But getting them trained to obey to a stop barking command will bring a relief to your complaining neighbours!
So, if you are looking for a breed that is easy to handle and is quite a looker as well, then look no further than the charming and charismatic English Cocker Spaniel!
