What Is A Cocker Spaniel?

Originally bred as hunting dogs, Cocker Spaniels are the smallest sporting spaniel standing only about 14 to 15 inches tall and weighing 20 to 30 pounds. Although they began as bird dogs–and are still used for hunting to this day–most Cocker Spaniels are family dogs now, content to live the lapdog life.

Cocker Spaniels are friendly dogs, good with people of all ages, including kids. Although they make great family dogs, their sporting nature and playful energy make them good pets for people with active lifestyles.

The coat of a Cocker Spaniel is long and silky and comes in many colors. Their long hair means more time spent grooming, and owners of Cocker Spaniels should avoid walking their spaniel through messy underbrush. It’s also advised to have your Cocker Spaniel regularly groomed.

Cocker Spaniels, although great for people with active lifestyles, are still suitable for calmer families as long as they get in plenty of playtime. Named after the bird they used to help hunt, the Woodcock, Cocker Spaniels are still sporting dogs, even if they are mostly bred for companionship these days.