English Cocker Spaniel: A Lovable Companion
History
The English Cocker Spaniel, or simply the Cocker Spaniel as it’s commonly known, originated from England and was bred for hunting game birds. The breed is believed to have descended from the long-haired spaniels that were popular during the 14th century. In 1879, they were recognized by The Kennel Club in England.
Appearance
Cocker Spaniels are medium-sized dogs with a height of between 15-17 inches at the shoulder and weighing approximately 26-34 pounds. They are often recognized by their soft and wavy coats which come in various colors such as black, liver, red, golden and tan among others. Their eyes are large and round with an alert expression that exudes intelligence while their ears hang down close to their heads with distinctive feathering.
Temperament
Cockers are considered one of the most affectionate breeds; they love attention and thrive on companionship from humans or other pets in the house. These social dogs have friendly personalities that make them great family pets since they do well with kids but can be shy around strangers if not adequately socialized at an early age.
As gun-dogs originally bred for retrieving prey like small game birds especially pheasant hunters hence possess natural hunting instincts which occasionally leads to chasing after smaller animals; however its moderate energy levels shouldn’t take up much room required for vigorous exercise making them excellent apartment dogs
Health Problems
Like most dog breeds,Cockers may also suffer certain health issues especially later in life such heart disease,and hip dysplasia being some examples.However ,they tend towards good health provided regular check ups continue,between every six months to annually.Therefore balanced nutrition ensuring best dog food quality alongwith recommended amount goes a long way contributing towards a healthy life expectancy.Cockers could live upto around twelve years..
Exercise
Even though Cockers are small dogs, they need moderate exercise to maintain healthy weight which could comprise around 60 minutes of walk per day.Taking them for walks and playing with them in the backyard or park would suffice as well. In order to help Cocker Spaniels maintain a healthy weight, training can also play an important role.
Special Grooming Needs
Cockers have dense coats requiring regular grooming at home up to three times a week.Due their thick fur,it’s recommended the coat be trimmed by professional groomer every couple of months.. Proper care could include bathing fortnightly ensuring use of quality shampoo specifically formulated for these breeds.
Training
Basic obedience training such as Sit-Stay,Lie Down,Heel comes naturally. Advanced commands like Come When Called Or Drop It/Leave It require patience and plenty positive reinforcement through rewards and praise.Notable traits include independence however respond well when trained gently taking into account their sensitivity.Cocker Spaniel puppies can learn housebreaking within weeks yet may take upto six months depending on breed age..
Compatibility with Children/Pets
As mentioned earlier,Cockers make wonderful pets due their friendly nature especially towards children.However early socialisation is vital introducing your new dog gradually to other household pets ensuring supervised interaction.Giving time during puppyhood stage goes long way preventing future problems & allows establishment better relationship between children/pets alongside cockers .
Personality Quirks:
Its entertaining personality & cheerful disposition makes it popular amongst families.Having said that some Cockers exhibit guarding instincts ,barking included specially if left alone frequently.Another quirk possibly attributed behaviour stemmed from being bred hunting prey;chasing smaller animals .This tendency requires attention early onset – handling firmly at start will prove effective reinforcing acceptable behaviours considered good conduct
Famous Examples:
Popular film LADY AND THE TRAMP features two American Cocker spaniels Lady who won hearts globally. There was also Black Diamond,Teddy Roosevelt’s owned by an ex-US President.
Conclusion
Overall, the English Cocker Spaniel is a breed that makes for an excellent family companion with its friendly personality, and affectionate disposition. The Cockers do require moderate exercise, regular grooming and proper training in order to keep them healthy and well-behaved members of your household.They are known to have been bred as gun dogs however their adaptability ensures they fit into various lifestyles!.