Cocker Spaniels have been popular since ancient times. They have been featured in legends and all kinds of stories. But the truth is that, even today, their official biography is unknown.
It is believed that the ancient Romans spread a hunting dog, especially adapted to water work, throughout their empire. It is possible that this dog arrived in the British Isles in ancient times.
It is also believed that the breed that later gave rise to the "spaniel" breeds, to which the Cocker belongs, is more specific to the Iberian Peninsula, hence its name. However, there is no consensus on the origin of the term spaniel. Some scholars claim that it comes from the term l'espainholz, derived from the Old French s'éspagnir, which meant to lie down—a clear reference to the behavior of dogs during hunting.
In the 20th century, it began to be selected as a breed in its own right. It was very popular in Europe and the United States. However, it was selected there with different aesthetic criteria to the point that they ended up being considered distinct breeds: the English Cocker and the American Cocker.
What are Cocker Spaniels like?
Beautiful, fluffy, and athletic, that we can say without a doubt. But in addition to that, they have a natural elegance, thanks to a strong, compact, and well-developed body. With a cheerful tail, in constant action, carried at level. Their coat is smooth, silky, with fringes on the hind limbs.
Their face is highlighted by a rather wide nose so that they can develop their olfactory skills. And their square muzzle. Their gaze is pure, dark, intelligent, sweet, but very alert, bright, and cheerful. Cockers say it all with their eyes.
In motion, these dogs are powerful, fast, and strong enough to gain momentum and cover a lot of ground in a few seconds. Watching them run outdoors is a delight.
What is the temperament of Cocker Spaniels?
The Cocker stands out for its intelligence, cheerfulness, and dynamism, characteristics that it maintains from puppyhood until it becomes a senior ARISTODOG. It can adapt without any problem to city life, which makes them perfect life companions.
As part of its balanced character, the Cocker maintains its hunting instinct and a great fondness for water. Therefore, if we are in the countryside and it is off-leash, it will not hesitate to plunge into puddles, rivers, etc. Naturally, in these cases, we must not lose sight of it.
How to care for Cocker Spaniels?
Cockers are very easy. They require few specific cares, beyond the care any other dog needs (vaccinations, deworming, regular check-ups to monitor their health).
However, we must pay attention to their ears. Since they are long and droopy, they may be predisposed to otitis. Therefore, it is important to keep them clean. In rural or country environments, it is very useful to protect them with an ear protector. In our online store, we have them in different sizes and colors. Discover them!
It is also important to brush the long fringes because they tangle easily. It is also a good idea to keep the hairs growing between the toes and paw pads short, as they can hinder their movement.
Otherwise, they simply need their daily walks, a certain amount of exercise (especially if they are young), and above all, a lot, a lot of affection.
In our online store ARISTOSHOP, you will find the best specific foods for your Cocker Spaniel, as well as some products and accessories where this breed is the protagonist.
We hope you enjoyed reading this post. You can see that Cocker Spaniels are adorable! To learn more about other dog breeds, keep reading. We introduce you to Schnauzers and Westies.