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Facts about Cocker Spaniel Puppies
Are you unsure how to care for Cocker Spaniel puppies or just want to learn more about this breed? Or maybe you are thinking about buying a dog and want to know if this is the right breed for you?
No matter what your situation may be, you will find the answers to your questions right here!
History
This is a relatively young breed. It was originally developed from selective and careful breeding of its close relative - the English Cocker Spaniel.
It was bred as a woodcock (a game bird) hunter. Incidentally, the name "Cocker" comes from the name of that bird.
Today, it's one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States (and the world). These days, it's rarely used for hunting and is kept mainly for companionship.
By the way, the breed is also known as the American Cocker Spaniel.
Physical Characteristics of Cocker Spaniel Puppies
This is the smallest of all hunting dogs.
It has a small, somewhat square body, dark brown eyes and a brown or black nose. The tail is usually docked. It's most distinctive feature are long drop ears.
It has a medium-length double coat that consists of a dense undercoat and silky outer coat.
The coat comes in black or other solid colors. It may also be parti-colored (black and white, black and red, etc.), with or without white markings and tan points.
| Height | Weight | ||
| Male | 14 to 15 inches | 15 to 25 pounds | |
| Female | 13 to 14 inches | 15 to 25 pounds |
Temperament
This is an intelligent dog with a strong work drive. It's friendly, loyal, cheerful, playful, trustworthy, adaptable and easy to train. Oh, did I mention that it also has a good temperament?!
It's good with children and loves to be around people.
In short, it's a perfect pet!
Its only real drawbacks are shyness and excessive sensitivity.
To deal with shyness, I recommend puppy socialization training while your pet is still young. To deal with sensitivity, be gentle and never hit or scream at your pet.
Best Owner
This is a very adaptable breed and will do equally well in suburban as well as city environments.
Some Cocker Spaniel breeders will interview prospective owners to make sure they are qualified.
Activity and Exercise
This is a moderately active dog.
To keep your pet healthy and in shape, take him for one or two long walks every day.
Grooming
The Cocker is an average shedder but whether you leave the coat long or clip it to medium length, I recommend daily brushing.
Why daily?
These dogs love to run in the fields, woods and thickets. In the process, they accumulate a lot of dirt and their hair gets tangled. The tangles may not only make your pet feel uncomfortable but may also cause various skin problems.
In addition to daily brushing, you may need to bathe your pet frequently.
Clip the hair, yourself or take your pet to a professional groomer, 3 to 4 times per year.
Eyes and those long drop ears also need regular cleaning.
Health Concerns
Common health concerns include cataracts, epilepsy, hip dysplasia and PRA.
To avoid the above and many other problems, buy only from reputable Cocker Spaniel breeders.
Life Expectancy
The average life expectancy for a Cocker Spaniel puppy is between 12 and 15 years.
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