Cocker Spaniel Dog Breed Guide

Is the #englishcockerspaniel dog breed the right one for you? Discover what #cockerspaniels are really like to live with from Bill and Maureen Lumb who've owned and loved the breed for more than 40 years.
Plus, hear the pros and cons of Cockers from top canine experts - with insights into health issues, grooming and training.
The English #cockerspanielbeeed hasthe working side, which are very, very fast dogs and bred to work in the field, hard going, hate cover. And then you’ve got the show type, which are bred to look beautiful. Both sorts of Cocker Spaniels though, use their nose a lot and they use their mouth a lot. So they are definitely going to pick up everything you leave lying around the house. What’s important from a behaviour point of view is what you deal with that. So if you snatch that article off your Cocker Spaniel, the next time you go to do that some of them have been known to guard, and they’ll growl at you for that. It’s really important that you go and you take something, you do swapses, every single time you take something off your Spaniel in the house you need to swap it for something better to prevent that guarding.
Cocker Spaniels are incredibly excitable. Really need an active home. And if you don’t give them a job, particularly the working ones, they will go self-employed. And a self-employed Spaniel left alone in the kitchen is definitely not a good idea. They can destroy your home. They can climb on tables, they can get anywhere. Think about a sniffer dog looking for drugs. Well, basically it’s going to look all over your kitchen just like that. So lots and lots of mental stimulation, lots of training, and don’t do that well being left alone for long periods of time.

[@invisuu6280]

Lost my cocker after 14 years...now I'm just watching videos about cockers because I miss her too much...thank you for the video.

[@DogAdviceVideos]

You’re welcome

[@jazzboo326]

I wrote in two years ago about our blue roan Jasper. Sadly, we lost him a week ago to heart and renal failure. An enormous hole has been left in our lives, and I too am looking through these videos to help me get through my day without Jazz. Cockers are just the most wonderful companions. I miss you so much Jasper 🌹

[@invisuu6280]

@@jazzboo326 I'm very sorry for your loss. They sure are irreplaceable. Cherish your memories together and be happy for the moments you shared.

[@jazzboo326]

Sorry for your loss too. I hope your pain lessens with time. 💔

[@suemontgomery3312]

Just got a rescue Cocker spaniel from Gumtree, kept in a back yard, one year old, wouldn't go near anyone, hid in his kennel, no blanket, out in all weathers. Held onto my arm whilst driving back home. Growled at my husband. Now full on loves and strokes....Now two months later.....happy little man, constant activity, loves the horses. Certainly hooked on Spaniels now.

[@DogAdviceVideos]

Sounds like you’ve done a great job!

[@growingandlearning164]

They respond VERY well to love and play.

[@Round_07]

Have two ‘workers’. They need at least two hours stimulation a day (i.e. off the lead in woods or open ground, chasing balls, etc) but if you are an active person, they are the perfect dog. Every day is like Xmas Day to them, they just love life.

[@DogAdviceVideos]

Sounds like a good match between you and your dogs!

[@87frontside]

You could not be more correct Sir. My 'working' Cocker puppy(14 weeks) wags the entire back half of her body all day and is tireless, 2/3 mile walks off lead are nothing to her!

[@masonmcdixon9294]

My God i am glad to hear this , cause i was going nuts with my 6 month old one having its nose smelling every single blade of grass and picking up anything and everything in it's mouth ....but she is super sweet and never gets mad at anything or anyone

[@ericmargan2858]

this video has been very meaningful for me; thank you so much for sharing stories of this delightful breed. we got a show ECS after watching this video and we like to impersonate the couple interviewed here--they're the sweetest. NEVER TAKE THIS VIDEO DOWN EVER.

[@DogAdviceVideos]

You are very welcome

[@johnc2938]

I am really considering getting an English cocker as a companion for my basset hound! really similar personalities! absolutely lovely!

[@DogAdviceVideos]

Maybe let us know how they get on?

[@mightymouse9929]

Cocker Spaniels are people !!!!

[@kay-ho7pu]

Mighty Mouse lol they definitely are. They always have the biggest personalities. They really adapt to and almost mimic the people they live with.

[@annoldham3018]

My parents had a golden one. Beautiful dog. She's right about the guarding though. 😁

[@paola5511]

I own a working english cocker spaniel and she has very soft shiny black hair. Her hair isn't long cause it doesn't grow fast but I like it that way because she doesn't get tangles.

[@Camisimluva]

Kinda cool. But not really thankfully working Cockers don't have too much fur like the one in the video - imagine picking the burrs off of a gundog's coat if it was that long 😂 my working cocker boy gets enough debris on his ears, I can't imagine what it would be like if he got them all over...

[@melblacke5726]

A little over a year ago, I got my first ECS and am definitely hooked! Are field bred cockers larger than their conformation bred counterparts? Are they more prey/chase/retrieve motivated? What about their energy level (my dog definitely needs a job to do and would probably have huge behavioral problems if left alone all day long and ignored in the evening and on weekends, too)? If you are looking for a canine to use as a house decoration or to sit all day amongst the pillow on the sofa, this is not a good breed for you I would guess.

[@growingandlearning164]

I have had English cocker spaniels all my life and everything said here is true . I love them they are the best dogs!!Also they can be stubborn but very easily hurt so you need to be firm and consistent with training and expectations but not harsh ever.I love all dogs but there is a special place in my heart for cockers.

[@DogAdviceVideos]

Thanks for your great comments

[@growingandlearning164]

@@DogAdviceVideos Thank you :)

[@FireBomberBassist]

I miss my Spaniel. :( RIP. I can't recommend these dogs enough for anyone. Never had a problem with mine ruining anything in the home. She just loved to be with you alot. Whenever you left her in a different room or shut the door she would cry for you.

[@FireBomberBassist]

Mine had a tumor. :(

[@Nixter1974007]

FireBomberBassist Really sorry to hear you lost your dog. I have mine and she's is almost three now. Do you have another Cocker?

[@FireBomberBassist]

Mine was over 10 years old. Was so hard watching her deteriorate before my eyes. No. I do want another dog. I plan on adopting. Doesnt have to be a cocker, i want to make another dog feel loved while its here though. Their lives seem so short compared to ours.

[@Nixter1974007]

FireBomberBassist Hope you get one soon. I got my new Cocker two days after I lost my last one, place wasn't the same, just had to have another one and she's amazing 😁😁

[@FireBomberBassist]

I understand! This breed is a special one. I made the right choice when picking my first dog, I recommend cockers to anyone I know looking for a nice house companion. They are so precious.

[@Oxifi1]

My mum:cocker spaniel Me:cocker spaniel I think we might have a decision now😂😂😂

[@DogAdviceVideos]

Let us know how you get on!

[@melblacke5726]

Got a show-type ECS 6 months ago and couldn't be more pleased with her. Was considering a second dog and did my breed research and made an appointment with a reputable breeder. Was so impressed with the dogs that I came home with a puppy(had to fill out an application and wait until weaning, of course). The breeder really put a lot of effort into the puppies with regards to early socialization and exposure and it was either then or wait years and years for the next litter. That effort really shows in my little gal's pleasant, affable disposition and in her easy-peasy trainability. The hair is something to deal with to be sure but I wanted a go anywhere, do anything with, kind of ultimate companion dog and she is a really great dog.

[@lukepalmer4733]

do they shed much?

[@TheDogBookCompany]

Very playful dogs. They're ideal for a very active family. I guess they never get tired of working.

[@ahjort100]

My cocker always finds socks! That’s her favorite wooby to carry around.

[@annoldham3018]

My parents bought a golden one as I was scared of dogs when I was little. He was adorable and I'm comfortable with all dogs now. 🐶🐕🐩

[@DogAdviceVideos]

Cocker therapy must work then!

[@lilacwinter8774]

Getting a dog discussion in my house- Mom: A cocker spaniel Dad: A golden retriever Me: Just get me a freaking dog already

[@phoebewalsh2041]

my family- dad- a rottweiler me- a cocker spaniel my mum- just freaking get a dog already

[@annettehenry1735]

These are the 2 I'm undecided between

[@unaestrella1876]

Lucky! I can't even get a dog. I would be happy with either.

[@eslinagai417]

Nossa, que amor esses bichinhos! Amei.❤️

[@Swaggerlot]

I'd had five spaniels and if anyone thinks that one hour a day exercise is enough, they have rocks in their heads.

[@Nanalikeschips]

It is though......it was stated in The AKC....correct me if I’m wrong but they have standard exercise periods

[@Swaggerlot]

@@Nanalikeschips Its not just physical, but also mental exercise. I'd hate anyone to think that a couple of half hour walks a day, with the dog then left alone all day is all that is needed.

[@sussexshelah3495]

I have just lost mine. . . miss him sooooo. He was just the nicest, friendly and sweet dog. Anyone who knows of one I could purchase/adopt, let me know ASAP. Thanks

[@DogAdviceVideos]

Sorry to hear that.

[@christopherblunt1123]

12 years ago we adopted from a no-kill shelter in Spain an 11 month old blue roan, whom we named Jasper. He is now 13 1/2 years old, and has some health issues associated with his breed and has Stage 2 heart disease. The heart disease is his biggest problem, but he is on Vetmedin ( these past 3 months) and with short non strenuous walks he is fine. Jasper came along before any of our 4 grandchildren, and he has never shown an aggressive side to any of the children nor to any human. His biggest problem is that he loves everyone and everything. To him every dog is a friendly dog, and when he does occasionally get it wrong, he is very confused. But he still continues to see the best in everyone. Please, if you are considering to get a cocker spaniel - ADOPT. There are many, many cocker spaniel rescues all over the world and many in the UK. SOS. Save our Spaniels is a good place to start. Jasper is the most loyal, funny, loveable and gentlest of dogs we know and there is not one person who has met him, who has not fallen in love with him, even non dog lovers. There are no bad dogs, just bad owners. 🐾

[@christopherblunt1123]

Look online for a Cocker Spaniel Rescue........there are so many who need forever homes. Please do not promote puppy farming.

[@DogAdviceVideos]

Thank you so much for sharing your story

[@janemontgomery2762]

We lost our chocolate kisses on my birthday. Last August 3rd. The house is so empty and I see her behind me everytime I turn around. Pray for me and I'll pray for you.

[@alecbrown66]

I have 2 show type cockers and this vid while being great misses out on a couple of great positives: Show cockers have hair not fur, and dont molt.plus this makes them hypoallergenic and the house isnt covered in fur. Second, as i am disabled, i have found my show types make excellent assistance dogs.this is a great way to keep them content. Last, out of all the dogs i have owned ( german shepherds, collies, labs, cairn terrier, jackahuahuas) i find mine excellent with young children.the size is right, the constant happy, waggy tail, and the tolerance with toddlers and youngsters. The show type are such mild energy that they dont destroy things as long as they have toys, and if you have a pair there is littlr separation anxiety, snd they dont need crating. Last there is the cocker spaniel rescue run by top kennel club judges and breeders, so you can save and rehome a cocker.

[@krystynajachowicz310]

Very nice dog

[@Emily-et4of]

OMG the green balls form sticky weed are the WORST for spaniels

[@moonspoonx2]

I have just got my second cocker they are just the best people keep saying there working dogs but I haven't seen a opening for them anywhere not even bar work .

[@DogAdviceVideos]

Two unemployed Cockers on your hands. Could be worse things!

[@nathaliegrieves3859]

Cocker spaniel are the best

[@krystynajachowicz310]

❤️❤️❤️

[@psloveemma8993]

I have a 9 month old Aussie, he is a great dog but I've always wanted an English Cocker. I would love to get him a pal. But I don't know if I would be able to handle it. My boy gets very jealous when I love on other dogs... has anyone ever had these two breeds together? And how did it turn out?

[@katemccormick9949]

PsLoveEmma m

[@tangoastro]

I really want a cocker spaniel but I have school and my other family members have work (I have an adult sibling). Is there any problems if I leave one with a really active dog? We have a cage type thing the dogs can run around in if we leave the house.

[@haylie2643]

Do you have an active dog now? My Cocker Spaniel is very calm, but actually that's the help of Cesar Milan, I looked att his puppy video, and he speaks about the energy of the dog, since I'm not the most active person I got a Cocker Spaniel who was in the same level as me. I can leave her for about five hours when I go to school and she's totally fine, as long as I take her for a longer walk before. Sometimes I even leave a bone or a toy with candy inside, that will make her work for it and she'll be tired after. Check out Cesar cause he actually have really good points on getting dogs and how to pick the right one for you :)

[@92_oi4]

As long as they have company with another dog they should be ok

[@reddog8551]

i have one

[@stephenrhodes7758]

The workers are just the best. They're a great working dog with a gentle loving nature. However they do need to be well stimulated or as the lady says they will go self employed lol.

[@DogAdviceVideos]

Certainly have a huge fan base!

[@fiammalombardi1242]

Adoro questa razza è 60 anni che le ho

[@stevenedwards2162]

My 8 month old cocker spaniel is a thief distrucful hard of hearing when she wants to be .She will pinch anything even out of our pockets .We have to make sure everything is out of her reach.But underneath of all her nautiness thers not an ounce of aggression in her and I love her to bits😂

[@CyborgNinja7]

You may have adopted a raccoon.

[@stevenedwards2162]

@@chickadddee She's fine thankyou, she still will pinch things and I have to give her a treat to get it back , but she's calmed down into a lovely dog ,👌👍

[@oliviapinochet]

2018???

[@maddieanddelilahgamez2432]

I have a cocker spaniel and he is beautiful and I love him but this dude will sleep on the table or right next to the dog bed never on it. He opens doors and cabinets and can punch out the chairs. He hates baths but I give him one every month. I know you have to bathe them once a week but I do once a month to make it better for him. I am so glad he is potty trained(for the most part.)

[@DogAdviceVideos]

We seem to get a lot of stories about Cockers who do things THEIR way! Great characters!

[@laurenceseale]

Lovely little dogs

[@DogAdviceVideos]

We agree!

[@imogenharris8089]

We are getting a Chocolate Sable Cocker Spaniel🐶

[@marshy2561]

Is the dog on the video working or show?

[@WhiPhi5]

+HD Marshall Show.

[@hairwithmartha6164]

Show

[@reddog8551]

it looks like show

[@paola5511]

show.

[@alexiscunningham1941]

I want a English cocker spaniel

[@DogAdviceVideos]

Good choice

[@petersayer1]

Wow I have a Coker spaniel he is a chocolate Rone

[@ollysza2833]

I have Cocker spaniel too

[@johnnypinkleton9410]

This is specific to the english cocker spaniel. The american cocker has a different temperament

[@DogAdviceVideos]

We made these videos in the UK... And didn't expect so many US viewers! Maybe let us know how the American Cocker differs if you have time!

[@VJOJO12]

@@DogAdviceVideos can I get cocker spaniel for my 2bhk flat in India please reply😭

[@natashaheath1562]

My dog got grounded from the house coz she jumped on my mums table and ate all the flap jacks and she also kept climbing on everything. (cocker spaniel)

[@Nixter1974007]

Natasha IH740409 Haha how old is yours now? My Zara is three on February 6th. She has been known to jump up on tables and stuff. Haha so much fun.

[@natashaheath1562]

Nixter1974007 Aww cute my baby s turnin 6 next year. But she started gettin this whierd sickness when she was 2. It went away but came back this year. But she s much better now. She also knows lots of triks and loves cross country and food.

[@Nixter1974007]

Natasha IH740409 Do you have your dog insured? It's a must and a safeguard against anything.

[@natashaheath1562]

Dunnow thats my dads part.

[@DogAdviceVideos]

What is it about Cockers and climbing on tables! We've heard quite a lot of those stories. Perhaps they're part mountain goat?

[@dianavance1137]

My 8 month old English Cocker Spaniel is violent at times. He eats everything even when he has just been fed; like paper, fabric of all kinds, balls, toys, wood furniture, he has a serious chewing problem. Although I have many toys for him, he still chooses to destroy our furniture. He bites me violently on occasion. Is there something wrong with him? We bought him from a "breeder" on the internet in our city. He came with serious ear mites, worms, bloody diarrhea at 13 weeks. I believe this breeder was a puppy mill. Beware of the internet breeders. They only want your money. However, he is highly intelligent but has behavioural problems.

[@Steve-yx1xj]

I hr a day ????????????? 3 hrs pd minimum.

[@jjdeville7884]

Show types look weird. Working type, much nicer looking dog