The English Cocker Spaniel

There are two types of Cocker Spaniel. The English and American. Our lucky Dog of the Month, Billie our Cocker Spaniel mix is of the English descent.
The English Cocker Spaniel is one of the oldest spaniels known. Centuries ago when Spaniels were used as working dogs in England, the varying breeds were divided up into 7 different breeds:

• English Springer
• Cocker Spaniel
• Clumber
• Sussex
• Welsh Springer
• Field
• Irish Water

Up until 1892 both the English and American Cocker Spaniels were recognise as the same breed, until the Cocker Spaniel and Springer Spaniels developed together, then the Kennel Club of England recognised the two different breeds.
Being a Spaniel, Cockers are great gun hunting dogs and are able to work through tough grounds, both wet and dry. They are very gentle whilst working and are great at flushing and retrieving for their human.

The name ‘Cocker’ comes from the bird called a ‘Woodcock’, a type of bird this breed was very well known for flushing out.
 
The English Cocker Spaniel is a compact, medium sized dog. They come in a variety of colours including solid and multi colours consisting of black, liver, red and white. They can also be seen in ‘roan’ variations, known as ‘parti colour’
Professional and regular grooming is a must for the Cocker Spaniel. Their long ears and feathers love to pick up anything from along the ground they can and can hold a lot of water during the cooler months. Due to thick fur on their ears they can be prone to infections and also holding grass seeds.
The Cocker Spaniel today is a lovable little dog that loves to be part of the family. If socialised well from a young age they love to be around other dogs. Being working dogs they are a breed that requires plenty of exercise to keep both their mind busy and avoid unnecessary weight gain.
The average life expectancy of a healthy Cocker Spaniel is 12 – 15 years.