English Cocker Spaniel
Description
This is a well built, well balanced dog. Intelligent, and alert. These are skilled hunting dog when properly trained. Males are between 15 and 17 in. tall and females are between 15 to 16 in. tall. Males weigh in around 28 to 34 lbs, and females weigh in between 27 and 32 lbs. Even though hunters prefer their dogs to have white in the coats to make them more visible to hunters the English Cocker comes in a wide variety of colors…parti, roan, or solid the colors vary from black to lemon with everything in between. The coat of the English Cocker comes two ways a field coat which is shorter and the show coat wich is longer and downy soft.
Temperament
English Cockers will bond with a paticular member of the family. They are not fond of being left alone, and would much rather be part of the family unit as much as possible. Cockers will get along well with children and other family pets if properly socialized. They need a strong pack leader to guide him, and properly train him.
Grooming/Exercise
Cockers require some extensive grooming in order to keep their coats healthy. They will need daily brushing some coats are harder to brush than others. You will need to check inside the ears for burrs and grass seeds, and remove any excess ear wax. The fur around the feet needs to be trimmed, but do not trim in between the pads. Bathe when needed either wet bath or with a dry bath. The English Cocker love to have as much exercise you can give him. Daily walks with you in the lead are a must. They can live in an townhouse as long as they are getting a healthy dose of exercise, but would do best with a secure yard to run in.
Health
Life Expectancy is around 12 to 15 years.
Possible Issues
- “Rage Syndrome” Dog without warning will attack will appear to be unaware of his surroundings (believed to be most common in solid colored Cockers)
- Ear infections (ears need to be closely watched and taken care of to prevent this).
