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"Small Dog Breed Catalog"
Small Dog Breed Catalog: Page 18
of 56
English Cocker Spaniel Dog Breed
This 'merry' Cocker, as it is sometimes called makes an excellent
family pet. Being considered as an excellent gun-dog, he is a great
dog for Dad to take out shooting with. And because he is also a good
playmate for children, he is the ideal dog for them to romp with in
the garden. He is intelligent, manageable, affectionate, gentle
natured, and has a merry temperament.
Size: His ideal weight should be about 28-32lb. Full grown height
for the male should be 151/2-16in and 15-151/2in for the female.
Origin and history: The Cocker Spaniel is very popular in Britain,
and in the United States where he is known as the English Cocker. He
is also sometimes referred to as the 'merry' Cocker because of his
happy and lively temperament and constantly wagging tail. Other
titles that he has been referred to were the Cocking Spaniel or simply
'Cocker' because of his one-time prowess at flushing out woodcock.
The Cocker Spaniel was originated in Spain where the name 'Spaniel'
and his ancestry can be traced all the way back to the 14th century.
He is believed to have been used in various countries in falconry.
Today, however, he is in his element while rabbit hunting, flushing
out game for his master. The larger Field Spaniel is of a similar
origin to the Cocker.
Feeding: Recommended feeding for this breed would be 1-11/2 cans of a
branded meaty product (13.3oz size) with biscuit added in equal part
by volume; or 3 cupfuls of dry food. Rations will need to be stepped
up if the dog is taking vigorous exercise. This is a breed that will
plead endearingly for small meals, which should be denied to avoid it
from becoming overweight or smelly. With correct diet and exercise,
he proves to be one of the healthiest and most long-lived of dogs.
Exercise: He is a very active dog that needs plenty of exercise. He
adores the country and is likely to return from a walk with tail
wagging and covered with mud so he is not perhaps the ideal choice for
town living
Grooming: This breed requires daily brushing and combing. Extra care
is needed to make sure that his coat does not become matted and his
ears do not become tangled. Also, make sure that his ears do not flop
into the feeding bowl. You might want to tape them back while he is
eating or you may use a special 'spaniel' bowl.
Copyright 2006 by Jay Jennings. All rights reserved.
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