If it is about love and company, the English Cocker Spaniel is an undoubtedly perfect option as a pet. Characterized as a loyal, affectionate, active and playful dog, which provides its owners with great moments of fun, these canines have earned the favoritism of many, due to their behavior.
- Medium size .
- Weight : Between 12 and 16kg.
- Hair type : Straight, silky and very fine.
- Character : Playful, Affectionate, Friendly, Faithful, Quiet, Endearing.
- Health : Healthy
- Life expectancy : Between 12 and 15 years.
Ideal for homes with children, older adults or large families, this breed exaggeratedly enjoys the company of its people, so much so that if it feels alone, it can fall into a depressive state. That is why, before adopting it, it is recommended to know everything related to them and, above all, if you have the necessary time to care for them.
For this reason, on this occasion we will dedicate some time to knowing all the details of this breed. Characteristics, where it comes from, what its behavior is and how to keep it healthy, will be the key points that we will develop in the following article.
Be sure to read this information and discover if this loving friend is the right breed for you.
Origin of the English Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel has its origins in the United Kingdom , where it was valued as a great hunter. In the beginning, this breed was associated with others such as the Field and the Springer Spaniel. However, this changed with the appearance of the Kennel Club , when the first of these animals was separated as an independent breed.
The name of the breed transcended borders and gained great popularity due to its hunting skills. In addition, he was a figure in English literature, having places with renowned authors such as Shakespeare.
Its size was a characteristic aspect to define the activities in which the breed would be used. In the same litter, the large Cocker Spaniels were used to hunt mammals, while the smaller ones hunted birds.
At that time, the Cocker Spaniel, Field Spaniel, Springer Spaniel and Sussex Spaniel breeds were not distinguished independently, but rather they were referred to as a single group, until the 19th century, when the separation of each one was carried out. of them, this being identified for the first time.
But the story does not end here because, some time later, the breed was transferred to the United States. In North American lands, experts sought a change in the appearance of the already known Cocker, carrying out crosses with other breeds, a context disapproved of by British dog lovers, who raised the need to maintain the distinction between the English Cocker Spaniel and the American Cocker Spaniel .
Since then, the recognition of the English Cocker Spaniel around the world has been undeniable. Beyond a hunting dog, it has been seen as an excellent companion, which has earned it the preference it occupies today.
Physical characteristics
This breed has very peculiar characteristics that easily identify it. Starting with its silky and fine fur, to its physical build, with which it appears strong and muscular, but without being heavy. It is a compact dog, with a sporty and good-looking appearance.
Contexture
It is a square-shaped dog, you could say, because it has the same height and length, which provides a kind of harmony to its entire muscular structure.
It has thick and strong legs, with forceful footsteps and great agility, which facilitates the job of hunting for what it was originally intended for.
Weight and size
Although it was mentioned that their size can vary in the same litter, the English Cocker Spaniel can reach between 35 to 45 centimeters in height. While their average weight varies between 10 and up to 25 kilograms, regardless of their sex.
head and face
These dogs have a well-formed head, proportional to their body, without exaggerated pronunciations. Its snout is square in shape, and its nose, usually dark in color, is evidently widened.
Their eyes are dark in most specimens. However, some may have hazelnut color. The ears, on the other hand, are long and especially hanging, covered with a light layer of fur.
Fur
One of the things that is most striking about this little English friend is his coat: smooth, silky and very fine. The colors can be varied, however, four characteristics are specifically included in the breed standard:
- Solid colors : Black, red, tan, gold and liver. In these cases, specimens have also been seen with a combination of these colors and a white spot on the chest.
- Particolors : These are variations between the colors black, white, orange and liver. Whether speckled or not.
- Tricolors : Black, white and tan.
- Roans : Included are blue, orange, lemon, liver and tan colors, all roan.
Character
In general, the character of these dogs, like that of many others, will depend on the socialization and training they receive from their owners from a very early age.
Specifically, the English Cocker Spaniel is a happy, loving animal and, above all, faithful to its family environment. With them, he will be affectionate, loyal and full of unparalleled tenderness. But, on the contrary, when faced with those he considers unknown, he will remain distant and distrustful, but without being aggressive.
The personality of this breed describes a very attentive, intelligent and above all energetic dog. They love to play and do any type of activity with their owners, so those who wish to adopt an English Cocker Spaniel must make sure they have the time that these dogs require, otherwise, they may experience separation anxiety and even depression. when feeling abandoned.
As mentioned, socialization is essential. We are talking about an obedient dog , but if it does not have adequate training, it can develop some behavioral problems that are reflected in destructive behavior and the pursuit of small animals that it considers "prey."
Coexistence
As for coexistence, this breed is really sociable by nature , and even more so when it is socialized correctly, which does not present difficulties in this matter. Although he is distrustful of people outside his family, he does not show signs of aggression and may even adapt once they live with him.
With other animals, for this part, the same thing happens. If the Cocker is trained to coexist with other dogs, from a very young age, he will have no problems adapting.
Without a doubt, an ideal dog for an active family that enjoys group and outdoor activities or in the tranquility of the home.
Education of the English Cocker Spaniel
Intelligence, obedience and attention are innate virtues in the English Cocker Spaniel breed. Therefore, educating them will be quite an adventure, in which both the dog and its owner will have great fun.
Although you do not need to be an expert in training these dogs, it is necessary to have basic knowledge to ensure that this canine responds correctly to commands, and above all, to provide it with adequate training .
A point of notable importance is to strengthen education in positive reinforcement, beyond shouting, these animals respond better and show more progress in their training when this method is used, instead of shouting.
In training, the first thing that should be highlighted is socialization, which should begin in the first weeks of the animal's life. If it is carried out when it is just a puppy, it will ensure that the dog can grow up with a balanced, happy and educated character at home and with other individuals.
Dedicating enough time, not only to socialization but to the company of these dogs, is another key factor. Well, otherwise, they assume destructive behavior inside the house, even more so if they are left alone for a long time. That is why you should train yourself to be alone for a few hours, but not for too long, because it can be detrimental to your health.
Teaching basic commands for your comfort and that of your environment is essential. Later, when a positive character has been established, training can be undertaken with fun tricks and exercises that help the animal entertain itself.
Health
Although it is a healthy breed in many aspects, the English Cocker Spaniel, like many other breeds, is not exempt from being affected by some hereditary diseases.
One of the most common ailments that this breed can suffer from is deafness. This pathology is more common in particolors , although the reason has not yet been determined.
Eye diseases such as: progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts and glaucoma, are other pathologies that may be present in these dogs.
Familial nephropathy, cardiomyopathies and hip dysplasia are added to the list of diseases that can harm the health of our beautiful friend.
Periodic veterinary check-ups will help prevent their appearance or, in other cases, determine the presence of any of them at an early age and provide the indicated treatment.
Care
The usual care of any pet is what our companion also requires. However, mentioning what these are is always necessary for them to be carried out correctly.
Bath and hygiene
Brushing is one of the most important elements in the care of this breed . This process should be practiced at least three times a week to maintain the shine and silkiness of its coat.
While dead hair should be removed at least twice a month. If you do not know how to do it, it is advisable to go to a dog groomer.
A bath monthly or every two months will be enough to maintain it, as long as it does not accumulate so much dirt on its body.
Take care of your ears
Within hygiene, ear care is one of the most necessary aspects. Let us remember that this breed is prone to deafness, which in turn can be caused by an infection due to inadequate or non-existent cleaning of its ears.
It is important to care for and frequently clean the ears of this breed to avoid diseases.
Exercises
Performing exercises in these animals is very beneficial. Firstly, because it helps keep you fit and very energetic and, secondly, because it helps you stay emotionally balanced.
Two walks during the day, of at least one hour, combined with exercises or practicing a canine sport will be enough for the health of the Cocker Spaniel.
Attention
As has been reiterated throughout the article, the attention and company that owners provide to these animals will directly influence their mood and behavior.
Let us remember that this is a breed that requires a large amount of time in the company of its loved ones, otherwise it can harm its emotional state.
Vet
Periodic visits to the veterinarian, vaccination checks and deworming are equally important aspects. Even more so, because through this aspect different diseases to which the breed is exposed can be prevented.
Visiting the specialist twice a year, and rigorously complying with the vaccination and deworming schedules, will be enough to guarantee the canine's good health and extend its life expectancy up to 15 years.
Conclusion
The English Cocker Spaniel is a breed that will bring joy, fun and a lot of tenderness to the family. A sweet and attentive animal, which combines loyalty with protection of its own.
One of the most popular and attractive breeds in the world, not only for its fine coat, but for its attractive personality. Attentive and obedient, which makes training very entertaining.
In addition, he loves the company of his human family. So, those who wish to adopt a specimen of this breed should consider whether they have the time they require for their attention, otherwise they could suffer separation anxiety from being alone for a long time.
Taking care of these animals is not complicated if you really have the time and willingness. And, as a reward, you will receive all the tenderness, company and mischief that these animals have in store for their owners.
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