As you know, we adore Cocker Spaniels here at Cocker Crazy towers!
As a family, we have an English Working Cocker Spaniel, so I’ll be writing this as an owner of that particular part of the Cocker family. But I think you can take our advice whether you are looking for an English, American, Working, or Show type Cocker… as all of them are as beautiful as each other!
Obviously there are cosmetic differences between each of the different Cocker types and you need to decide whether they match your requirements; the one thing that unites all Cocker Spaniels though is their beautiful nature, so lets begin there…
Cocker Spaniel Nature
Cocker Spaniels were originally bred to flush out pheasants and Woodcock (hence the name!). They are a super energetic, busy, happy breed. Endlessly inquisitive, always on the trace of an exciting new smell to follow. ‘The Merry Cocker’ is always ready to go go go!
Despite all of this energy, Cocker Spaniels are the most loving of breeds. They are super affectionate, and want to be with their human pack all the time. Get ready to never visit the loo alone again! No…I mean it!! They are rarely respecters of personal space and revel in a cuddle with their humans, wherever you are!
Family pets
Cockers really are the perfect dog for families. They adore children and are endlessly keen to play with youngsters. They are super softies, so they are great pets for families with younger, or older children. Although, just be aware that they can be very bouncy, so always keep an eye out when they are playing with tinier children. Although, I think this is sage advice for owners of any breed of dog.
Exercise
Male, or female Cockers both share this even tempered nature and are equally suited to a family environment. However, both sexes do require a certain amount of exercise a day. Spaniels have been bred as a working dog for hundreds of years and need enough stimulation… whether mental or physical, each day. Our girls thrive on two walks a day; they are usually happy with 45 minutes per outing and usually snooze well after each!
Cocker Spaniels love variety, so they are ideally suited to owners who enjoy an active lifestyle. As I’ve said, daily walks are essential for the physical and mental good of your pooch. But, Cockers are naturals at Agility work and really enjoy being given something to do. Scent games at home are a brilliant idea for this breed, as they have the Rolls Royce of doggie noses!
Lifetime friend
If you decide that the Cocker Spaniel is for you, then prepare yourself for the best friendship you could ever wish for! Your loyal, happy little dog will forever want to please you and be with you. A doggie lifetime of fun awaits!
Image by Ilona Krijgsman and Dave Francis from Pixabay