All about the Cocker Spaniel dog breed
The Cocker Spaniel dog has proven to be an intelligent, playful and loving furry friend. His adorable appearance allows him to establish a good bond with each member of the family. And although he deserves some care and even physical training, this canine is a good companion for the little ones in the house.
Whether with an adoptive family from the city or from the country, the Cocker easily adapts to the conditions that await him in both environments. In general, many highlight the Cocker Spaniel’s character. However, by receiving a good education, since the Cocker is a baby, his bad mood can be controlled.
Origin and history
One of the first classes of dogs intended for catching birds were the Spaniels. Within them, innumerable specimens with their own characteristics and ideals for each type of situation were found. This led to the breed being divided according to size in the 19th century. For this reason, the smallest were called Cocker Spaniels whose hunting ability persists over time.
Once the Cocker Spaniel breed touched American soil, their breeders began to crossbreed them, genetically modifying those that came from England. Thus, with the passage of time, two different breeds were established: the world-renowned English Cocker Spaniel and the American Cocker, characteristic of this territory.
Physical appearance
In general, the Cocker dog has certain characteristics that differentiate it from the rest of the quadrupeds. But, in turn, both the English Cocker Spaniel and the American Cocker Spaniel have particular features.
The English Cocker reaches a cross between 38 and 43 centimeters. Likewise, it can weigh between 12 and 16 kilograms. Physically, its head is narrow and long, highlighted by the characteristic large drooping ears . As for his fur, it is silky at medium length. Same that serves to protect your abdomen and chest.
The American specimen, meanwhile, is smaller than the English Cocker, reaching around 37 centimeters. And they get between 12 and 13.5 kilograms of body mass. Its snout is flattened and with a pronounced forehead, even its body is rounded.
In general, these Spaniels come in sub-varieties, which are differentiated between Show and Working Cockers . On the other hand, its coat is characteristically smooth and silky, but it varies depending on the color. For this reason, a black cocker may be present in their litters along with others of solid colors such as gold or red.
Likewise, there are those with particolor fur that generally contains white and shades such as lemon, liver, orange and there is even the classic black and white Cocker. The tricolor coat also turns out to be a very striking variety, within which the black, tan and white or liver, white and tan Cocker are obtained. Finally, we mention the roan -coated Cockers, whether blue, orange, lemon, liver and more.
Cocker Spaniel Characteristics: Behavior and Personality
It should always be kept in mind that each dog is unique. Therefore, his character is autonomous. However, in the Cocker dog breed, certain general characteristics are observed depending on its temperament. A Cocker is a dog that is tender and sweet both with its relatives and with the people around it. For this reason, he is a good watchdog with little protection ability .
The Cocker is a furry little one who likes to receive signs of affection from his relatives or enjoy dynamics. This canine tends to be friendly, tolerant and gentle with other dogs and other pets that live in your home. However, there is no doubt that he still maintains his hunting instincts and therefore enjoys going out for a few moments to hunt birds.
Finally, we must mention that destructiveness and aggressiveness are other characteristic behaviors. Although these problems usually become visible when you lack social interaction, physical activity and mental stimulation.
care and needs
This medium-sized dog requires certain care to lead a healthy life. Cocker spaniels were originally bred to survive constant physical activity . Therefore, they are quadrupeds that require good training to burn the energy they store. With two daily walks and a routine of physical exercises, they manage to release stress and keep their muscles in good condition. Your senses could even be stimulated by doing activities that exercise your sense of smell.
Socially, the Cocker Spaniel should be invited as a puppy to share with different people, animals and even objects, as this will prevent behavioral changes in the future, such as phobias or aggressiveness.
As for your hygiene requirements, these go beyond your monthly bath. For example, their fur has to be constantly brushed; At least three times a week, even every 60 days, it should be trimmed, including the ears, since the latter are prone to conditions, they should be cleaned frequently.
Food and health
It is important that you consume a feed that meets your nutritional needs. An adult Cocker should not consume the same feed as a puppy Cocker, since each dog food (in this link you will find several products to choose from) is manufactured according to the dog’s age.
In this sense, it is important to determine with a trusted veterinarian the diet that favors its metabolism and growth. Likewise, it should be borne in mind that being a pedigree breed, the Cocker Spaniel is usually exposed to certain hereditary conditions. Some of the most common are deafness, cataracts, glaucoma, retinal atrophy, and heart disease.
In conclusion, a well fed and cared for dog will have a good quality of life. Therefore, it seeks to offer the Cocker Spaniel good nutrition, constant exercise and thorough hygienic care. But, above all, reciprocate with the same friendship and love that this canine is capable of bestowing.
