Learn more about the English Cocker Spaniel from our guide that helps you choose the dog that’s right for you and your family.

The English Cocker Spaniel is an active little dog with a friendly character and long ears. The Cocker Spaniel we know in Australia is the English Cocker Spaniel, as opposed to the American Cocker Spaniel.

The Cocker Spaniel, whose name comes from its job of hunting woodcocks, has been recognised as a separate spaniel breed since the 1890s. The Cocker was the UK’s most popular dog breed from the 1930s to the 1950s and is now very common in Australia.

This medium-sized dog measures 38-42 cm and weighs 13-15 kg. The Cocker comes in a range of colours, from solid black, red, orange and brown to various combinations of multiple colours. It has a flat, silky coat that needs regular brushing and professional grooming about four times a year.

A highly intelligent dog, the English Cocker Spaniel likes to learn and is eager to please, making this breed easy to train. It has somewhat of a delicate character though, so use gentle training methods to avoid scaring your Cocker Spaniel.

Cockers are affectionate dogs that thrive on human companionship. They make great pets for families with children and typically get along well with other pets. Despite their sad-looking faces, Cocker Spaniels are happy dogs that are full of love and devoted to their owners.

Make sure to include your Cocker in your family activities or it will feel left out. This is not a dog you can leave alone for long periods of time.

As a sporting dog, the English Cocker Spaniel is happiest when it can run around and play. It can adapt well to living in a small house or apartment, but it does need at least an hour of daily exercise. This excitable breed loves to explore off-leash areas and enjoys a swim.

Cocker Spaniels are prone to eye problems, ear infections and obesity. Their average lifespan is 12-14 years.