Cocker Spaniels love walks and outdoor activities.
A cocker spaniel is an active dog with many exercise requirements. If not exercised properly, they can become destructive and waste their energy on the owner’s belongings. The same is true if they are left alone for long periods of time. Because they were bred for hunting, these dogs can sometimes appear hyperactive. In fact, a few daily walks plus a weekly run in the park should be enough exercise to keep the most active dog satisfied. A cocker spaniel loves structured learning and will do very well in agility training and skill work.
Cocker Spaniels require regular grooming due to their long coats.
These dogs make great pets and tend to be more accepting of children than other breeds. While this varies with each individual dog, Cocker Spaniels are generally devoted animals with a great deal of playfulness. They make excellent playmates, but they tend to hate teasing, which means they get along better with older children. These dogs can share a home with other animals, including cats, other dogs, and even small mammals, but early socialization is key and can make a difference in how the dog will behave around other species.
Cocker Spaniels require a great deal of grooming and trimming. Daily brushing, especially after field walks, and monthly professional brushing are recommended. This can add up over the long term, so it’s important for people to keep this expense in mind when considering this breed.
These dogs can sometimes get into a lot of trouble due to their tracking abilities. Dozens are lost each month trying to track down their owners after they leave the house, and unless the owner has a fenced-in yard, leaving one outside alone is a big risk. Loneliness and boredom are the two main causes of misbehavior in Cocker Spaniels, but as long as they are actively involved in everyday family activities, they can make great pets.