Pets
Services
History of the Cocker Spaniel
As the name suggests, this type of canines is believed to have originated in Spain, though this is not supported by surviving records. It’s among the oldest hunter’s aids of European ancestry, appearing long before the advent of firearms (flushed game was channeled into pre-arranged nets). Spaniels were developed into a multitude of specialty breeds in Britain. Some were meant to hunt waterfowl and given specific physical targets.
Spaniels have distinguished as gundogs. Purposeful crossing with Japanese hunting breeds is thought to have helped produce a more compact body.
The American Kennel Club awarded the Cocker Spaniel its official recognition in 1878, while the Federation Cynologique Internationale followed suit a century later, in 1963.
Cocker Spaniel Review
The Cocker Spaniel is a small dog within the sporting (i.e., hunting) group, an excellent companion of a peaceful, cheerful and mischievous temperament, easy and pleasurable to own. They boast a square muzzle with cute facial expression and long, hanging fluffy ears.
Search and rescue is where this dog is often employed to much acclaim; pet therapy is very much to its liking as well. About two dozen related breeds share the “spaniel” sobriquet, English Springer and Field Spaniels considered closest relatives.
Canine fanciers currently divide Cocker dogs into two varieties (sometimes considered separate breeds), American and English CSs. Yanks are a tad higher, have an elongated skull and wear thicker coats.
Everything American Cocker Spaniel: Typical Breed Characteristics
The well-built, proportionate Cocker would share these features and traits in its disposition:
- Character: cheerful, full of energy, intelligence-driven. Cockers are inquisitive and love both long walks/runs and swimming. Affection of the owner is inbuilt. Living with a Cocker is much fun.
- Young children: this dog enjoys time spent with a child, but nanny assignments are ruled out. Your Cocker would not put the kid in jeopardy, but expects reciprocity in good treatment. It gets along well with cats and other canines.
- Shedding: this furry type is prolific shedders. The dog needs to be brushed every day, use a long-teeth comb. The heavily feathered ears should be inspected often. Pluck hair inside the canals. Give ears proper ventilation once in a while.
- Training: shouldn’t be a problem, as Cocker Spaniel puppies for sale are educated to be all-around obedient, instinctive pleasers. Picking up skills is a natural trait, not demanding extra mental stimulation.
- A fully grown male CS at its prime would be standing 14.5-15.5 inches high at the shoulder (the figure is 13.5-14.5 in for females).
- It would be weighing 20-25 pounds (females) to 25-30 lb (males).
- The average lifespan of a Cocker Spaniel is 10 to 14 years.
- Barking complaints are not generally recorded with both baby and adult dogs.
- Heat or cold spells would not be a problem for this proud member of the Spaniel family.
What Kind of Health a Cocker Spaniel Has
Though generally considered quite healthy, Cocker Spaniels are still susceptible to medical conditions. Hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and progressive retinal atrophy top the list. These are tested for by breeders when planning mating. Talk to an ACS producer to get more detailed genetic info.
Bite problems, skin allergies, cataracts and deafness are recorded, though genetics is not to blame here.
Boasting strong canine immunity, Cocker Spaniels may be affected by allergies. These are caused by protein combination in a selected food diet. A dedicated commercial mix (for active dogs with long hair) may alleviate concerns. Consult your vet before switching to a different menu.
Ear infections are common in wearers of long ears. Moisture is trapped and bacteria can grow. Proactive prevention cuts the risks significantly.
What Health Tests Are Recommended
Ask your potential seller to provide returns on these testing runs indicative of probable further issues ahead:
- Malignant hyperthermia
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Canine herpes virus
- Sarcoptes allergens
- Canine phosphofructokinase deficiency
- Gallbladder mucoceles
- Degenerative myelopathy
This is not breed-specific: hereditary issues are recessive and associated with inter-crossing among close relatives. There’s no other way to ensure your peace of mind on this rather than order a DNA test. It may not be on budget.
A responsible breeder would offer to produce returns on his/her own without any prior prompting, as a proof of sound business ethics.
Cocker Spaniel Puppy Price
Cocker Spaniels retain strong appeal with American dog fanciers, sitting high in the pecking order of most popular breeds in the listing run by the AKC.
Price of Cocker Spaniel puppies varies. Location is unlikely to significantly affect this as the supply is abundant. Coat color, sex, feedback for the breeder may. Diplomas most certainly will.
Tags for a “Cocker Spaniel puppy for sale near me” in colors approved by the Club for dog shows are usually on the high end of the scale. For a purebred American CS, the authorized buff (light brownish yellow), black, black and tan, silver, brown would be the mainstay.
Cream, red roan, sable, blue roan, and golden-colored dogs are met, but stopped at the ring.
Buy a Cocker Spaniel Puppy from a Breeder
Buying a Cocker Spaniel puppy from a reputable kennel guarantees you purchase a purebred. A full list of medical tests and vaccinations can be asked and procured for a measure of health control. An owner can reasonably predict the temperament of the new member of the family based on the parents’ behavior. Ask the breeder for videos if they are not posted already on the pup’s profile.
Socializing routine? Clean, safe spaces to roam and educate? Request as many details and testaments as you wish to be sure you’re getting the pup exactly as advertised.
A breeder-sourced pet with complete med history supplied is a sensible investment in the mental and physical well-being of both yourself and the dog you welcome in your life.