Is a Cocker right for you? Things to consider before getting a puppy.
An American Cocker Spaniel's personality can be summed up with one phrase: PEOPLE LOVERS! They crave the attention and affection of their owners desperately. A home where there is someone at home most of the time is generally the most ideal, however not necessary if other measures are taken to provide a safe and comfortable environment while the family is away. Be assured however, as soon as you return home you will have a constant companion! They generally do not do well if isolated for long periods of time, and are definately not considered to have independent personalities. A home with another dog to provide canine companionship while the humans are away is also another situation in which they thrive. If you do not want a dog that will follow you around the house, then you don't want a Cocker!
Their exercise needs are moderate, meaning a fenced yard for daily activity is usually adequate. Of course, the Cocker Spaniel remains a "Sporting" breed, which means they are genetically built for activity! Bird hunting is where their roots were formed and you will still find them able to do this today given the proper training. You will also find these spaniels able to excel in many types of other activities including agility, obedience, and therapy work just to name a few. Providing daily walks however will be just as sufficient if your nature isn't quite so athletic. You will never hear your dog complain that you are making him watch too much t.v.!
The grooming of the American Cocker is probably the owners biggest task. All that beautiful hair seen on those gorgeous show dogs does not stop growing! Your dog will need to be groomed on average between every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the style you're aiming for with occasional baths in between. Lots of companion homes keep their Cockers shaved short for ease of care, and this is perfectly acceptable. If however you have more time to spare, growing a long coat can also be enjoyable to take care of. A few tools, a grooming table, and a good brush will help keep your dog's coat looking great. Your other alternative is to find a good groomer! Regular visits from an early age will help ensure that this will always be a stress free time for your dog. Keep in mind however that a good grooming from a professional will cost you anywhere from $35 and up depending on where you live and depending on the style you choose. This is why I recommend getting a decent pair of clippers and learning the basics yourself! Keeping at least the face and ears regularly cleanly shaven will help keep your dog's eyes and ears healthy, and looking like a Cocker Spaniel!
That said, there are a few more issues to keep in mind that are traits you will find inherent to the breed as well as issues you should keep in mind for general dog ownership if you are considering your first one:
* As with most long-eared breeds, ear infections will develop much more easily. Regular cleaning will ensure limited or a pure lack of ear infections altogether. As well, clipping the upper third of the ear also helps promote air flow, necessary for dry healthy ears.
* The droopy eyes of the Cocker sometimes will develop a condition called "Cherry Eye". (This is a prolapsing of a gland in the lower lid, and common in other breeds as well such as Bulldogs, Beagles, Bloodhounds, Shar Pei, Lhasa Apso etc) A condition which is easily remedied by manipulation back into place, or suturing or removal by your veterinarian. Like the rest of the hair on your Cocker, the eyelashes will continue to grow too! These should be kept nice and short so as not to interfere with vision or pose harm to the actual eye.
* The nails of your Cocker will need to be trimmed regularly.
* Puppies do not generally come to you housebroken. House manners, proper behaviour, and appropriate potty-ing are all things that take patience and time to train. New pups will need a lot of attention in the beginning to get them on the right road, and a plan for these issues must be thought of beforehand. I strongly recommend crate training, as well as doggie doors. Please see our links section for some sites with great articles and advice.
