INTRODUCTION

The English Cocker Spaniel is a medium-sized dog breed with long ears and a lively character. The “Cocker” in its name comes from its days hunting woodcock in England, although English Cockers have been used to hunt many other types of birds as well. They make great companion dogs for people who can give them the exercise they need. Even flat dwellers will love this affectionate and adaptable puppy. AniMall24 recommends a dog bed to give your medium sized English Cocker Spaniel a good night’s sleep. You should also buy a dog brush and massager for your long haired puppy.

HIGHLIGHTS

English Cocker Spaniels can be difficult to housebreak. Some English Cockers bark a lot. English Cockers are eager to please and like to be close to their families. But they are hunting dogs and may start chasing birds or small animals when outside. Be sure to keep your English Cocker on a lead whenever he is not in a fenced area. Teach him to come to you when you call him.Cockers have a “soft” personality. Harsh training methods can cause them to be fearful or shut down completely. Be sure to use gentle, consistent training for best results.If your English Cocker does not get enough exercise, he may become obese and destructive.The long ears of an English Cocker are susceptible to ear infections.To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill or pet shop. Look for a reputable breeder who tests their breeding dogs to ensure that they are free of genetic diseases that can be passed on to puppies and that they have a sound temperament.

HISTORY

Spaniels of various sizes have been around for centuries. References to spaniels date back to the works of Chaucer and Shakespeare. There are two types of spaniels: land spaniels and water spaniels. English cockers belong to the land spaniel family. Until the last century, it was not uncommon for the same litter of spaniels to have puppies of different sizes. Breeders decided for what use the puppies in their litters seemed best suited, depending on their size, muscularity, intelligence and stamina. However, in the late 19th century, British breeders began to divide spaniels into specific breeds: English Springer, Welsh Springer, Cocker, Field, Sussex, Clumber and Irish Water Spaniel. However, there was some dispute over some of the weight designations, so it was eventually decided that type should be more important than weight in determining the breed of dog. In 1885, the Spaniel Club of England was formed. One of the club’s first tasks was to create breed standards for each of the different types of spaniels.across the pond, the development of Cockers took a different direction. American breeders selected smaller dogs with a rounder skull, shorter muzzle and heavier coat. By 1935, it was clear that the American Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel were two very different types. In 1936 the English Cocker Spaniel Club of America was formed, and the American Kennel Club recognised the two varieties as separate breeds in 1946, calling one the English Cocker Spaniel and the other the Cocker Spaniel.Although the American Cocker Spaniel became very popular in the USA, the English Cocker is one of the most popular breeds in the UK. In the USA, its relative lack of popularity has contributed to the breed remaining healthy and true to its roots as a pleasant hunting and companion dog. The English Cocker Spaniel currently ranks 74th out of 155 breeds and varieties registered by the AKC.