Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are generally happy dogs who get along with most two- and four-legged friends. This makes them a great companion for families with kids and babies or other pets. Some Cocker Spaniels make good therapy dogs, too, but it will depend on your pup’s individual temperament.

Gentle and loving dogs, Cocker Spaniels enjoy the company of their humans. You can expect they’ll want to be where you are, usually not straying too far away. While usually Cocker Spaniels are pretty laid-back pups, they are not couch potatoes. They are born hunters, so they are thrilled to participate in dog sports, agility trials and playtime with you.

They are adaptable and can make themselves at home in an apartment in the center of town or on an acreage in the country. (They do tend to bark, so they will make some noise!)

The Cocker Spaniel breed is beautiful, and they know it. And that beauty comes with a time commitment to match. Those gorgeous locks need lots of brushing to keep tangles and shedding at bay, but their dog-show-worthy coat is worth it! The time you spending grooming your pup—and providing the proper training and exercise needed—will give you many opportunities to create fond memories with your fur baby.

When those sweet Cocker Spaniel eyes look at you, you’ll likely only want to cuddle and play. But life with a dog is never all fun and games, and unfortunately, they do have several health issues to be aware of. With a lifespan of 10 to 14 years, pup parents should be aware of a few concerns to help their pup have the happiest, healthiest life possible. You should always see a veterinarian if you’re concerned about these or any other issues with your dog.

• Eye Conditions: Cocker Spaniels can suffer from various eye conditions, with cataracts being the most common because they can be hereditary. Due to this, The American Spaniel Club (ASC) requires a yearly eye exam for dogs registered with the club. A study from the ASC estimates that 8 to 11 percent of Cocker Spaniels have cataracts. As with people, surgery is usually necessary to remove them. Other eye conditions to watch out for include Progressive Retinal Atrophy, which often presents as night blindness first and for which there is no treatment, and Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), or dry eye, which can look like red and irritated eyes and can be treated with medication.

• Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a painful condition when the ball and socket of the hip doesn’t fit correctly. The ASC recommends that Cocker Spaniels be evaluated for hip dysplasia after turning 2 years old. This issue, usually seen in larger breeds of dogs, can be hard to spot at first but can eventually cause arthritis or other joint issues. A range of treatment options is available for hip dysplasia, including weight loss, physical therapy or joint supplements.
• Patellar Luxation: This is a condition where the knee (patella) slips out of the groove at the bottom of the femur. This can lead to arthritis or even more serious conditions. For less severe cases, keeping your pup at a healthy weight and focusing on less-intense exercises can help. Surgery is often recommended for severe cases.
• Skin Infections: A Cocker Spaniel’s skin can get oily, so seborrhea and dermatitis are common issues. A thorough rinsing after bathing can help prevent some skin problems. Medication or a shorter cut might be recommended for treatment, depending on the exact condition.
• Ear Infections: There’s no doubt a Cocker Spaniel’s ears are adorable. Big, long and just cute, they certainly add to the playful looks of this breed. Those cute ears can sometimes trap moisture inside, which can lead to a host of issues. Thoroughly drying after baths or outside playtime can help. Additionally, some Cocker Spaniels have oil glands that produce too much oil in their ears, leading to infections. If you think your pup has an ear infection, talk to your vet. Medication is a common treatment for many ear issues.

The Cocker Spaniel history takes quite the winding journey, and Spain is widely considered their country of origin. Cocker Spaniels have been hunting dogs from the beginning, and their ancestors were considered either “land” or “water” spaniels. Eventually, those groups became more nuanced, and the dogs known for hunting the woodcock bird became the Cocker.

Cocker Spaniels were one of the first breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) when the club was founded in 1884—though a distinction between Cocker Spaniel types, the Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel, didn’t come until 1946.

The 1950s were a good time for Cocker Spaniels in America—they were the most popular breed of the decade, according to the AKC. This likely had something to do with Vice President Richard Nixon’s Cocker Spaniel, Checkers, and the popularity of the movie, “Lady and the Tramp” (the leading pup, Lady, is a Cocker Spaniel).

Are you looking to add a Cocker Spaniel to your family? You can look for a Cocker Spaniel-specific rescue organization in your community; they are dedicated to helping you find the right dog. If you’d rather try your hand at raising a Cocker Spaniel from a puppy, you can check out a list of reputable breeders at the AKC’s website. If you decide to go the breeder route, know that the Cocker Spaniel price can vary widely, from $500-$3,000. For that price, you’ll likely get a puppy who’s been screened for health and temperament issues, and they may even come with pedigree papers. You could also keep an eye out for the breed at your local animal shelter.

Cocker Spaniels crave time with you and are eager to please you. And with that flowing, shiny coat, you’ll have lots of opportunities to bond with your dog as you brush their fur—but they’ll look gorgeous as they run through agility courses! If you’re looking to add a Cocker Spaniel as a pet to your life, you’ll be rewarded with a dog ready to make their home in the center of your world.