Cocker Spaniel  , English

 An intelligent and independent dog with a strong personality, the English Cocker Spaniel is a devoted pet.

 History:

Originating in Spain, along with many other varieties of Spaniels, the Cocker was used in France and Britain to hunt woodcock and game. It was bred to its now recognizable breed by the Dukes of Marlborough, by crossing the original Spanish breed with King Charles Spaniels. Thus, the Cocker Spaniel was definitely established by the end of the nineteenth century. By the 1930s the Cocker was the most popular dog in Britain.

 Physical characteristics:

The English Cocker Spaniel is a small bundle of energy. Height: 15 - 17 in (38 - 43 cm); under Canadian standards: 16 - 17 in (40.6 - 43 cm) for the dog and 15 - 16 in (38 - 40.6 cm) for the bitch. Weight: under Canadian standards: 28 - 34 lb (12.7 - 15.4 kg) for the dog and 26 - 32 lb (11.8 - 14.5 kg) for the bitch.

 The body is compact and sturdy, and should measure the same from the withers to the ground as from the withers to the root of the tail. The head is long and lean, with well-chiseled lines. The occiput is mildly prominent, with the eyebrows shielding the eyes well.

 The muzzle is square, broad, straight, and powerful with a well-defined stop; lean cheeks and full jowls with a scissor bite and a broad, black nose. The eyes are brown or dark brown, with an intelligent and gentle expression. The ears are lobular and set low, level with the eyes, and extend to the tip of the nose when pulled forward. They are covered with long silky hair, and nicely frame the face. The tail is docked two-thirds its length, and carried in line with the back.

 The coat is flat and silky all over, with plenty of feathering. The coat colors are many: liver, red, orange, lemon, black, and tan, and also parti-colored blue.

 Behavior:

This wonderful little dog has a truly delightful character. The English Cocker Spaniel has a very graceful movement as it bounds around in a determined manner. Its strong sense of territory makes it a very good watch-dog, and it seems to derive great pleasure in alerting its owner to the sound of potential intruders. The English Cocker Spaniel gets along very well with most other dogs, and usually wants to play.

 This dog has brought a great deal of joy to the lives of people throughout the world; it is truly a most loyal companion. Although this dog has a very endearing expression, wise owners will take an assertive stand from the outset, and not allow this otherwise lovable dog to become too bossy.

 The English Cocker Spaniel is an athletic dog and really appreciates regular exercise. When it cannot be vigorously exercised, its food rations should be reduced proportionately to avoid making it too fat.

 Some of these dogs have an amazing ability to swim long distances and care should be taken not to allow them to be out of sight when in the water. The English Cocker Spaniel has a marvelous coat which benefits from regular brushing. A fantastic dog, which is highly recommended. 

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