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English Cocker Spaniel

Sporting Group

Affectionate, energetic and intelligent

English Cocker Spaniel

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Breed Overview

English Cocker Spaniels are popular for their joyful and friendly demeanor, making them a favored choice for families and individuals alike. They thrive in environments where they can be part of the family and enjoy regular, albeit not overly strenuous, exercise.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Medium-sized breed
  • Height Generally stands at about 15-17 inches (38-43 cm) at the shoulder
  • Weight Typically ranges between 26-34 pounds (12-15 kg)
  • Life Span Around 12-14 years
  • Coat Medium-length, silky, and either flat or slightly wavy; requires regular grooming
  • Color Comes in a variety of solid and parti-color combinations, including black, liver, red, blue roan, and more
  • Grooming Requires regular grooming to prevent matting, including brushing a few times a week and professional grooming every few months
  • Temperament Known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them excellent companions for children
  • Energy Level High
  • Intelligence High
Health Needs
  • Exercise Requires regular, daily exercise to maintain health and happiness. A minimum of an hour of exercise per day is recommended
  • Trainability Highly trainable and intelligent, responds well to positive reinforcement
  • Socialization Good with children and other pets; sociable and friendly when properly socialized
  • Grooming Requires regular grooming to prevent matting, including brushing a few times a week and professional grooming every few months
  • Health Issues Prone to certain health conditions like ear infections, hip dysplasia, and eye problems
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Highly affectionate and gentle, making them excellent companions for children and active families
  • Suitable Living Space Can live comfortably in an apartment or a house as long as their exercise needs are met

About the Breed

The English Cocker Spaniel is a versatile breed, equally adept at being a family companion and a skilled working dog in the field.

History of the Breed

Originally bred as a hunting dog in England, the English Cocker Spaniel was used to flush and retrieve game. The breed was officially recognized in the late 19th century and is one of the oldest types of land spaniels.

England

Fun Facts About the English Cocker Spaniel

What To Expect When Caring For a English Cocker Spaniel

Health

Common health issues include ear infections, hip dysplasia, and eye problems. Regular health check-ups and screenings are important.

Grooming

Their beautiful coat requires regular grooming. Daily brushing and regular professional grooming are recommended to prevent mats and tangles.

Exercise

Moderate to high energy levels. Daily walks and play sessions are necessary for their physical and mental well-being.

Training

They are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Positive reinforcement works best.

Nutrition

A balanced diet suitable for their age, size, and activity level is crucial. Be mindful of portion sizes to prevent obesity.

English Cocker Spaniel is a delightful breed suitable for a variety of homes. They thrive with regular interaction, exercise, and grooming. With proper care, training, and nutrition, an English Cocker Spaniel can be a wonderful, loving companion for many years.

English Cocker Spaniel Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

The English Cocker Spaniel, known for its cheerful disposition and beautiful coat, is generally a healthy breed, but like all dog breeds, they can be predisposed to certain health issues. Being aware of these conditions and undertaking appropriate health testing can assist in maintaining their health and well-being. Here's a list of common health issues in English Cocker Spaniels and the recommended tests for these conditions:

Description: This condition involves an abnormal formation of the hip joint, leading to lameness or arthritis. Signs include difficulty in moving, jumping, or less activity. While it's not curable, managing the condition through physical therapy, weight management, and joint supplements can help​​.

Description: Due to their long ears, English Cocker Spaniels are prone to ear infections. Symptoms include head shaking and a foul odor from the ears. Regular cleaning and vet visits are essential for treatment and prevention​​.

Description: A leading cause of death in the breed, with signs including unusual lumps, weight loss, and lethargy. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment​​.

Description: Eye Conditions: Progressive Retinal Atrophy, glaucoma, and cataracts can affect their vision. Some conditions are hereditary but can be managed or treated with surgery​​.

Hip Dysplasia

Description: This condition involves an abnormal formation of the hip joint, leading to lameness or arthritis. Signs include difficulty in moving, jumping, or less activity. While it's not curable, managing the condition through physical therapy, weight management, and joint supplements can help​​.

Ear Infections

Description: Due to their long ears, English Cocker Spaniels are prone to ear infections. Symptoms include head shaking and a foul odor from the ears. Regular cleaning and vet visits are essential for treatment and prevention​​.

Cancer

Description: A leading cause of death in the breed, with signs including unusual lumps, weight loss, and lethargy. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment​​.

Eye Conditions

Description: Eye Conditions: Progressive Retinal Atrophy, glaucoma, and cataracts can affect their vision. Some conditions are hereditary but can be managed or treated with surgery​​.

Ensuring that English Cocker Spaniels undergo these recommended tests, especially if they are intended for breeding, can help in the early detection and management of these conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are also key factors in promoting the long-term health of these dogs.

Prescription Medication Assistance for English Cocker Spaniels

The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

How Much Does It Cost To Care For A English Cocker Spaniel?

The annual cost of caring for an English Cocker Spaniel can vary depending on factors such as your location, the dog’s individual health needs, and the standard of care you provide. Here’s a breakdown of the typical expenses involved in caring for an English Cocker Spaniel:

A purebred English Cocker Spaniel puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

Initial Cost

$800 - 2500

Potential Additional Costs:

When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow English Cocker Spaniel enthusiasts.

Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

Initial Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

High-quality dog food and treats are essential for an English Cocker Spaniel's health.

Estimated Cost

$250 - 700

Potential Additional Costs:

Learn more about the best quality dog food for English Cocker Spaniels.

English Cocker Spaniels require regular grooming due to their medium-length coat.

Estimated Cost

$300 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

English Cocker Spaniels require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your English Cocker Spaniel's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

Your English Cocker Spaniel will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 500

Potential Additional Costs:

Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

Estimated Cost

$50 - 100

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

$2300 - $6400

It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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