Dog of the Month - Cocker Spaniel.

As our Dogs of the Month, Joe & Georgia are more than excited to tell you a little more about themselves.

Joe & Georgia are both English Cocker Spaniels, one of the oldest known spaniel breeds. Centuries ago, the spaniels were importuned into England and known as general spaniel type dogs. It wasn’t until the differing breeds became obvious that they were divided. This clearly separated the spaniels into 7 different breed;
English Springer, Cocker Spaniel, the Sussex, the Clumber, the Welsh Springer, Field Spaniel and the Irish Water Spaniel.

Both the Springer Spaniel and the Cocker Spaniel were developed together, being bred from the same litters, the larger pups were Springer Spaniels and the smaller pups were Cocker Spaniels. It wasn’t until 1892 that they were recognised as separate breeds. It was then in 1946 that the English and American Cocker Spaniels were registered as separate breeds also.

Regardless of the different sub breeds, the Cocker Spaniel is a compact hunting dog, able to work through difficult terrain. They are excellent at flushing and retrieving game and are very gentle in doing so. One of the game birds they are well known for flushing is the Woodcock, this is how the Cocker Spaniel was given their name.

The English Cocker Spaniel is a very smart dog, they are extremely gentle, playful and affectionate and are excellent with children. They are very much a family dog and love to be part of the family. Training and plenty of stimulation is highly important for this breed, though they do not require a high amount of exercise their minds need to be kept busy. Males will generally grow to about 43cm and weight around 14kg – 15kg, with females only weighing around 12kg – 15kg and can grow up to 41cm. Regular grooming in essential with breeds having quite an excess cotton coat that is prone to matting. Regular clips throughout the year will help with this. 

Joe, giving us a bit of wink - while Georgia is more interesting on the treat hiding in her bed!

Most importantly, the English Cocker Spaniel has a beautiful nature. They are loving dogs that are willing to please and Joe and Georgia love nothing more than a good cuddle!