What are Some Characteristics of Cocker Spaniels?
A cocker spaniel is an active dog with heavy exercise requirements. If not exercised properly, they can become destructive and take out their energy on the owner's belongings. The same is true if they are left alone for long periods of time. Because they were bred for hunting, these dogs can sometimes seem hyperactive. In fact, a couple of daily walks plus a weekly run in the park should be enough exercise to keep the most active dog satisfied. A cocker spaniel loves structured learning, and will do quite well in agility training and ability work.
These dogs make excellent family pets and tend to be more accepting of children than other breeds. While of course this varies with each particular dog, cocker spaniels are usually dedicated animals with a great deal of playfulness. They make excellent play companions, but tend to resent teasing, which means they do better with older children. These dogs can share a home with other animals, including cats, other dogs, and even small mammals, but early socialization is key and can make all the difference in how the dog will take to the presence of other species.
Cocker Spaniels require quite a deal of grooming and clipping. Daily brushings are encouraged, especially after walks in the field, and monthly professional grooming is recommended. This can add up in the long run, so it is important for people to remember this expense when considering this breed.
These dogs can sometimes get themselves in a lot of trouble because of their tracking abilities. Dozens get lost every month trying to track their owners after they have left home, and unless the owner has a fenced yard, leaving one outdoors alone is a big risk. Loneliness and boredom are the two major causes of misbehavior in cocker spaniels, but as long as they are actively involved in the everyday activities of the family, they can make excellent pets.
AS FEATURED ON:
AS FEATURED ON:
-
![Cocker Spaniels love walks and outdoor activities.]()
By: Viktor PravdicaCocker Spaniels love walks and outdoor activities. -
![Cocker spaniels require regular grooming due to their long coats.]()
By: Anton GvozdikovCocker spaniels require regular grooming due to their long coats.
Discussion Comments
My Cocker Spaniel used to follow me to work. I lived within walking distance to my job, but I worked on a farm down a rural road, so this wasn't a big deal.
My boss didn't mind him being there at all. He liked to watch him track and hunt and listen to his excited bark when he picked up a scent.
My dog roamed and did his own thing on the property all day, but he knew when quitting time was. At five every day, he would come and find me and accompany me home.
The most striking thing about the Cocker Spaniel breed is their curly coat. It looks like a head of naturally curly hair, and it is often blonde and so pretty.
I would hate to have to spend a lot of money on grooming, and I'm sure this is necessary with these dogs. I suppose you could do it yourself, but it wouldn't look as professional as if you paid an expert to do it.
@StarJo – As long as you are sure that she won't tease it, then it would make a good pet. Just be sure that you spay it or neuter it.
My dad got me an American Cocker Spaniel when I was young. It was very friendly and agreeable, but the problem was that we didn't have it neutered.
It kept running away from home in search of a mate. It would stay gone for weeks at a time.
One day, my dad found it several miles from home lying dead on the side of the road. He didn't want to tell me, so he just let me believe that the dog was missing for years.
My husband and I have a cocker/king charles mix. Everything above is true. We have a farm and unless he gets a full day of running around with the horses, cows, and other dogs, he will drive us nuts being cooped up inside.
I had him at my parents for 10 days and they live in a residential community. This to him was like prison and I couldn't wait to get him home he was so insane.
He loves to "hunt" (look for missing tennis balls, and other things, loves roaming the woods and outdoors, but like this article said, they can be naughty. Charlie is not destructive but sometimes gets that devil in him and doesn't want to come when he's told because it's just too fun. He's very well trained, very loyal and extremely intelligent. Loves people and is just an overall joy to have.
Post your comments