Cocker Spaniel

The third most popular, or should we say pup-ular, breed on BorrowMyDoggy is the Cocker Spaniel. Whether you’re thinking of borrowing one or getting your own, we’ve pulled together lots of fun and interesting facts you should know about the breed.

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What is a Cocker Spaniel?

Cocker Spaniels are the most popular breed within the Spaniel family and come in two varieties, the English Cocker Spaniel and the American Cocker Spaniel. They are known for having a lovely nature and making a wonderful family pet or working dog.

The most noticeable distinctions between the two is the overall size and head shape (American are typically smaller). Originally bred as hunting dogs, they’re small to medium in size and can be black, liver, red, golden or black and tan. The average lifespan of an English Cocker Spaniel is 11-12 years, and 12-15 years for an American Cocker Spaniel.

The most common crossbreed is a Cockapoo, a Cocker Spaniel cross poodle.

How much exercise does a Cocker Spaniel need?

Cocker Spaniels are high energy, active little pups that need at least an hour of exercise a day, as well as lots of playing in the garden. They need lots of mental stimulation so walks need to be kept interesting with lots of new things to smell.

"Maya is perfectly happy to have quick ten minute walks, but also loves a good romp off lead playing around in the woods and fields. She would play fetch 24/7 if she could." - Stella, Owner of Maya

What about temperament?

Cocker Spaniels are known for their gentle and loving personalities. Their tail is often always wagging and all they want to do is please their owners. They are very happy, friendly dogs that thrive on praise and typically adapt themselves to their surroundings. Here is what some of our members had to say about their Cocker Spaniel pals:

"Lottie is cuddly, loving and very laid back with tons of personality. She gets very excited meeting people and loves everybody, humans and dogs." - Amanda, Owner of Lottie

Are Cocker Spaniels easy to train?

Both the American and English type are highly intelligent dogs who love to please and always wanting to learn new things, making them very easy to train. As they are prey-driven dogs, they will follow their noses when on a walk. Making sure they are good at recall is a high priority skill to learn.

Owner Alicia on her Cocker Spaniel, Maybe:

Maybe follows commands, comes back when called, sits on demand and loves being loved. She has a cheeky side, but her main aim in life is to make people happy.

That being said, here are a few funny quirks that some of our members’ pooches have:

Owner Gemma on her Cocker Spaniel, Dolly:

Dolly’s two favourite things to do are bark for no reason or snuggle and cuddle.

Owner Lynn on her Cocker Spaniel, Albie:

Albie loves following me around the house with a squeaky stuffed animal in his mouth like a personal orchestra for one.

Owner Gill on her Cocker Spaniel, Olly:

Olly is a mummy's boy and follows me everywhere.

Owner Claire on her Cocker Spaniel, Milly:

Millie has no behavioural issues, except that she will chew your mail to pieces if she gets the chance!

Most common names on BorrowMyDoggy:

• Poppy
• Alfie
• Charlie
• Molly
• Bella
• Millie
• Daisy
• Oscar
• Bailey
• Ruby

BorrowMyDoggy member, Liz, joined with her adorable Cocker Spaniel, Leo. Watch their story to see why she says “BorrowMyDoggy is the best thing that’s happened to me with regards to Leo - it’s an absolute lifesaver. Leo’s a lot happier and I’m a lot happier, too."

High paws to our lovely community for letting us share these facts about their lovely dogs. Paws crossed you found them helpful :)

Looking for the pawfect Cocker Spaniel to join you on a walk? Or would you like your Cocker Spaniel to make a new friend? Why not sign up to BorrowMyDoggy today.

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