English Cocker Spaniel a Hunting Dog Breed

There are two types of English Cocker: field and show. The field types have shorter coats. Many colors are admissible, but on solid color dogs white is acceptable only on the chest. The coat comes in solid black, liver or red or parti-color combinations of white with black, liver or red markings or ticking. Tan markings may appear on black liver or multi-color dogs. The English Cocker Spaniel is a hardy, energetic, merry and lovable, sweet and affectionate dog. It is sociable with strangers, a moderate barker, and obeys respectfully the orders it is given. Temperament varies widely, research individual lines. Some bitches are fairly dominant and should not be placed with a non-dominant owner. Males tend to be more cooperative. Cockers should be trained very gently, but firmly, as they are sensitive but also independent and intelligent.
Height: Dogs 38-43cm. Bitches 36-41 cm.
Weight: Dogs 13-16kg Bitches 12-15kg.
This breed is prone to ear infections and during the summer; the ears should be checked often. Hanging close to the ground as they do, they can become host to ticks or burr, often the cause of deafness. The English Cocker Spaniel enjoys as much exercise as you can give it. Regular combing and brushing of the coat is important. Some coats are particularly profuse, cottony and prone to matting. Others are more silky and flat laying. Coat type varies substantially within the breed. Bathe or dry shampoo as necessary. Check the ears for grass seeds and signs of infection. Clean out excess wax regularly. Brush the hair on the feet down over the toes and trim it level with the base of the feet. Trim the hair around the pads, but not between the toes. Brush out burrs and tangles after the dog has been playing in the grassy fields or woods. This breed is an average shedder. The talents of this breed are tracking, hunting, retrieving, agility, and competitive obedience.