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The Cocker Spaniel Breed

History

Cocker Spaniels are a breed of small hunting dogs that were originally used to hunt small game and fowl. It is thought that the name “cocker” comes from their great proficiency to hunt woodcock. Today however, while some Cockers are still used for hunting, you are most likely to find Cocker Spaniels either in the show ring or curled up on the lap of their favorite human.

Cocker Spaniels are a small dog with adult females usually weighing 20-25 pounds and adult males weighing 25-30 pounds. Cocker Spaniels come in a variety of coat colors. Solid color, which is a Cocker of a single coat color. Parti-color, two or more solid, well broken colors, one of which must be white. Tri-Parti, a parti-colored coat with tan points. Last but not least, Roan, which is starting to make a come back in the American Cocker Spaniel, much to the delight of many.

Temperament

Life with a Cocker Spaniel is never without love. I have often wondered how such a big heart can fit into such a little body.

A Cocker Spaniel should have a loving and sweet disposition, and not show signs of being timid or aggressive. Cocker Spaniels are an alert breed that responds well to positive reinforcement style training. You should never use heavy-handed training on any dog.

Grooming

Coat maintenance is a must with Cocker Spaniels. Cocker Spaniels have rooted hair, which means that the hair continuously grows, just like a humans. Due to this, Cockers need to be groomed, either by you or a professional, on a regular basis. Whether you keep your Cocker in a show cut (short along the back, long on the sides) or a field cut (short all over), they will require regular bathing, brushing, and coat cutting. Please keep this in mind when deciding if a Cocker Spaniel is the right breed for you.

Cocker Spaniels also have a higher rate of ear infections than some breeds. This is due to their beautiful floppy ears, which prevent air from circulating inside the ear. This creates a perfect moist, dark environment for yeast and bacteria to grow. To prevent infection, it is important to clean a Cocker's ears on a regular basis, especially after bathing and grooming.

Links

http://www.akc.org/breeds/cocker_spaniel/index.cfm

 
 

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