History
The English Cocker Spaniel is a breed of dog that descended of the Spaniel family imported into the U.K. centuries ago. The Spaniel family is a large one which vestiges go back to the 14th century and that gave origin to the water and land Spaniel families these having sub-divisions according to their size. The land Spaniel family was subsequently divided into “sarters” more suitable to spring game, and “cockers” which excelled at flushing woodcock and other small birds from dense undergrowth.The name cocker comes precisely from the this dog’s incredibly past proficiency on flushing. The Englisn Cocker Spaniel fathered the American Cocker Spaniel. Presently, the main differences between these two breeds reside in their coat (shorter in the English Cocker Spaniel) and the shape of the head. The Englisn Cocker Spaniel has such a good-natured disposition that it has been given the nickname "merry cocker". Today, this breed is mainly used as a companion, although it is also beginning to be used as a working dog in service and detection.
Description
The Cocker is a medium-sized, compact, sturdy, short-coupled and well-balanced dog, Solid, but not bulky, with the body giving the impression of strength without heaviness. Strong, but not coarse. The topline is almost level blending into the shoulder with the backline slopping a little toward a lightly rounded croup. The back is short and strong but not as short as that of an American Cocker. The loin short, broad and very slightly arched. The deep chest is well developed, but not wide enough to prevent efficient movement of the forelegs. The well sprung ribs spring gradually to mid-body, tapering to back ribs which are of good depth and extend well back.. The head as a soft, relaxed, yet dignified, expression. The skull is arched and slightly flattened when seen both from the side and from the front, and the muzzle is square, well cushioned, well-defined and descending from distinct, but moderate, stop. The nose is black or brown depending on the coat color and the nostrils are wide allowing proper development of scenting ability. The low-slung ears lie close to the head and are well covered with long, silky, straight or slightly wavy hair. When pulled forward they should reach the tip of the nose. The oval, medium-sized eyes are dark and set wide apart with tight lids and with a bright, gentle, alert and intelligent expression. The tail, generally docked, is carried horizontally, moving constantly when the dog is in motion. When excited the dog may carry the tail somewhat higher, but not cocked up. The coat medium length on body and short and fine on the head is slightly wavy, well-feathered with a dense overcoat, and comes in a huge range of colours that go from solid black, liver or red or parti-color combinations of white with black, liver or red markings or ticking.
Behaviour
The English Cocker Spaniel is a hardy, active, merry and loveable sporting dog, famous for its friendly and affectionate nature. Neither sluggish nor hyperactive, it is a moderate barker and obeys respectfully his handler’s orders. Although this breed’s temperament varies a little, generally it is an outgoing dog, sociable with strangers and quite good with children and cats. Very young children should not be left unsupervised though, for this breed does not tolerate rough playing well. The training should be very gentle, but firm, as Cockers are sensitive but also independent and intelligent. The males are generally more obeying while some bitches tend to be dominant. The Cockers are really engaging companions. Besides their weet temperament, they love carrying things about, whether on command or voluntarily, to the delight of their owners.
Health & Care
The English Cocker Spaniel is generally a healthy breed, which main problems are progressive retinal atrophy, kidney disease, and hip dysplasia. Occasionally they may suffer from ear infections because of their pendulous ears which should be checked often specially in the summer.
Trivia
By early 1900’s the main difference between English Cockers and Springer Spaniels was one of height only.