Cocker Spaniels Dogs are wonderful, lovable dogs that make great family pets. The Cocker Spaniel requires some specific training and care.
Cocker Spaniels are a breed of dog with an abundance of personality, energy, and love. Cocker Spaniels have been a very popular breed of dog for a very long time. The article entitled "Cocker Spaniel", published by the website "Petnet", provides information on how the Cocker Spaniel acquired its name. It says the name "Cocker Spaniel" is attributed to the phrase "to cock", which means to flush game from dense undergrowth or brush. The Cocker Spaniel was originally used to scare up game such as the woodcock. This intelligent little dog was also used to retrieve fallen game from bodies of water or swampy areas. Cocker Spaniels still make excellent hunting companions as well as loving pets.
Cocker Spaniels are a small, solidly built breed of dog. According to the website "American Cocker Spaniel Information", in the article entitled "American Cocker Spaniel", these well-favored dogs typically weigh between twenty-four and twenty-eight pounds. Male Cocker Spaniels are on average around fifteen inches tall, and females are about fourteen inches tall. The same article says Cocker Spaniels any larger do not qualify to participate in dog shows. "American Cocker Spaniel" says this breed of dog has an average life expectancy ranging between twelve and fifteen years.
"American Cocker Spaniel" describes the facial features of this breed. They are described as having large, drooping ears that frame an attractive face. They have a black nose, big round eyes, and the cheeks and lip overlap the bottom jaw. The website "Walters and Shackles Guide to Dog Breeds", written by Rosamund Walters, and published in 1997 by The Complete MultiMedia Co. Ltd., says the Cocker Spaniel can be liver-colored, blue, red, black, gold, black and white, or tan and black.
The online magazine entitled "Dog Owner's Guide" says in the publication "The Cocker Spaniel", which was written by Norma Bennett Woolf, and published in 2000 by Canis Major Publications, that the Cocker Spaniel, when properly bred, has very few health problems or inherited abnormalities. This article provides the following information on some health concerns of the Cocker Spaniel. It says when choosing a Cocker Spaniel puppy, it is important to ask information regarding the health background of the parents. Some illnesses and abnormalities to watch for are heart disease, epilepsy, cataracts, hemophilia, glaucoma, and retinal atrophy.
Because of their long, hanging ears, Cocker Spaniels are prone to ear problems and infections. "The Cocker Spaniel" says it is important to regularly groom and inspect the dog's ears for burrs, pests, and debris. Dogs that are not used to having their ears handled or inspected may not permit it. Grooming and inspecting a dog's ears from the time it is a puppy will help the dog to adapt to regular care and handling. The same article suggests cleaning a Cocker Spaniel's ears with a medicated product especially for the ears. If the ears are sensitive, foul smelling, or if there is a discharge, professional medical treatment will be necessary.
"The Cocker Spaniel" recommends obedience classes or training for this high-spirited breed. It says a Cocker Spaniel that has not been properly trained can exhibit some behavioral problems. Pet stores sometimes offer obedience classes, or your veterinarian may have information on obedience classes in your area. These classes are well worth the time and money. A problem dog can show a great deal of improvement after regular obedience training.
Regular vaccinations, exams, exercise, and a balanced diet will help keep your Cocker Spaniel disease-free and in top condition. Preventing problems before they begin is the key to a long, healthy life for your pet. "Cocker Spaniel" says this breed of dog loves to play games involving the retrieval of balls and sticks. Daily exercise, whether it is a brisk walk or a game of fetch, is great for your Cocker Spaniel's health and well-being.
