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English Cocker Spaniel Dog Breed Profile
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The English Cocker Spaniel is one of the oldest land spaniels.
Cocker, English Cocker. |
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| K9Obedience
Breed Profile |
England
Flushing and retrieving Woodcock and other gaming birds.
Gundog
Bitch 38-39cm., Dog 39-41cm.
Bitch 13-14kg., Dog 13-14kg.
12-14 years
The English Cocker has boundless energy and needs daily exercise. They love long walks in the countryside where they will leap into any muddy brook or stream. They also love to play ball and retrieve items endlessly, like its relative the Springer Spaniel. They do well at agility.
The English Cocker Spaniel can gradually become greedy as it ages and they can then easily become overweight. Never feed pastry, or sweet or starchy foods. As long as the food is of quality and given in the recommended breed amounts they are not difficult to keep in trim.
Cocker Spaniels are prone to ear infections as their ears can often drag along the ground when out in the fields, due to their sniffing everything along the way. The ears must be kept clean and dry. They are susceptible to obesity and cataracts in old age. Some of the solid coloured dogs suffer from Rage Syndrome, a genetic anomaly.
This little dog loves to please its owner but often retains a slightly stubborn streak. Training from an early age is vital to ensure that the dog is obedient. They are intelligent and mischievous dogs that will keep their owners busy. Their hunting and working skills mean they can get into anywhere to chase small animals and the family cat! They are often partial to chasing joggers, cyclists and children and must be trained to walk quietly to heel. They must also be taught to know what is acceptable and what isn’t because they are a strong willed dog. All in all, the English Cocker Spaniel is an excellent family dog as long as the owner can be patient, firm and disciplined with training.
English Cocker Spaniel K9 Obedience Dog Breed Summary:
The English Cocker Spaniel is energetic, affectionate and loves to play with its family. They adore children and tolerate other pets as well as cats if introduced correctly and not allowed to chase them or play with them from an early age.
As a breed, the Cocker’s temperament can vary widely. Some are dominant, others are shy but generally this tough little dog will suit any owner and can live in any environment as long as their needs are met.
Field lines tend to be too active to make good pets as they really need to be working every day.
Training and socialising from an early age is needed to shape the dog into a well-balanced and mentally sound companion. Training should be of a gentle but firm approach as the Cocker can be sensitive to harsh voices and methods.
Overall the English Cocker Spaniel is a lovely companion dog with a big spark! |
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