🐕 Medium · England
The Cocker Spaniel is a cheerful, people-oriented flushing dog with a long, silky coat and drop ears that needs plenty of daily exercise, scent work, and regular ear and coat care.
The Cocker Spaniel is friendly, playful, and very affectionate, with a strong desire to please his family. He is generally good-natured with children and other animals. Some lines are prone to excitability or separation anxiety if not given enough outlets.
As a flushing dog, the Cocker Spaniel needs plenty of daily exercise involving scent work, such as tracking or dummy training. Swimming is loved by many of the breed and is easy on the joints. Without adequate activity he quickly becomes restless or overweight.
The long, silky coat requires brushing several times a week plus regular trimming by a groomer. The drop ears need regular checking and cleaning, as they are prone to infection. Ears and beard should be dried after eating and drinking.
The Cocker Spaniel is considered well suited to beginners, since he is eager to learn and people-focused. Consistent portion control is important, as the breed tends toward obesity. The considerable ear and coat care involved should be realistically planned for before getting one.
Breed-typical conditions include progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), hip dysplasia, and an inherited clotting disorder (factor I deficiency). Ear infections occur frequently due to the ear shape. Breed clubs recommend eye examinations and hip X-rays before breeding.
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This information is for general guidance and does not replace veterinary or breeder advice. Temperament and health vary individually within every breed.
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