Breed List

English Cocker Spaniel

English Cockers are a medium-size dog with long ears and a happy disposition. The name Cocker comes from their use to hunt woodcock in England, although English Cockers have been used to hunt many other types of birds as well. They make great companion dogs for people who can give them the exercise they need.

Illustration courtesy of the Swedish Kennel Club

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Quick Facts

Height

Male:: 15-17in
Female:: 14-16in

Weight

Male:: 28-34lb
Female:: 26-32lb

Fun Fact

The Cocker is part of the royal family. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, also known as Prince William and Kate Middleton, adopted a cocker spaniel puppy in 2012. The puppy, named Lupo, is the son of a cocker spaniel owned by the duchess’ mother. Lupo is the latest in a long line of dogs in the royal family.

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About this Breed

The English Cocker Spaniel is a breed of gun dog. There are “field” or “working” cockers and “show” cockers. An active sporting dog, the English Cocker Spaniel’s compact, solid body practically vibrates with energy and enthusiasm, particularly when at work in the field. Although known for its soft, melting spaniel expression, the breed is a tough worker, capable of covering ground effortlessly and penetrating the densest of cover. His coat can be solid-colored (black, liver or shades of red) or parti-colored, including ticking or roaning.

Prone to ear infections. During the summer, the ears should be checked often. Hanging close to the ground as they do, they can become host to ticks or burrs, often the cause of deafness. The Cocker can gain weight easily; do not overfeed.