English Cocker Spaniel

In the 18th century, the "cocker spaniel" was selected in England to hunt woodcock, which is at the origin of the term cocker (woodcock translates as "woodcock" in English). The term cocker spaniel appears in the 1850s and the breed was standardized and recognized in 1892 by The Kennel Club. The introduction of the breed to France is attributed to Paul Gaillard; from 1898, the French Spaniel Club was founded, it is the oldest breed club in France. The standard was set in 1901. Very popular in the 1970s, the cocker was victim of this craze: some breeders, seeking profitability more than breed preservation, practiced inbreeding (practices still common today among breeders in the case of a "fashion" for a dog breed, following a film or television series, like the German Shepherd with "Rin Tin Tin" or the Dalmatian with "101 Dalmatians"..) Furthermore, the puppies, which were separated from their mother from the age of four weeks, were unable to go through the imprinting and socialization phases, so important for their future social life. Sick animals, both physically and behaviorally, flooded the market. Some subjects quickly proved aggressive. Dogs with golden (or red) coats were particularly affected by this fashion. Even if the market has improved in recent years, allowing the cocker to regain all the original qualities of its breed and to attract a new audience, many breeders believe it is still premature to restart the breeding of the "red", the surviving lines still carrying hereditary defects and being subject to aggression problems.

Like its cousin the American Cocker, the English Cocker Spaniel is very playful, clever and affectionate but can also show a lot of character. However, it is less obedient than the American. This dog, with a rather calm temperament, can prove to be stubborn. Being a hunting dog, it loves water. It loves fresh air (forests for example) and loves to run in large spaces. Gay, playful and impish, it is a charming companion, gentle and affectionate. The cocker is characterized by its greed, capable of swallowing anything and everything, one must be careful with its behavior and diet, and take it out every day.

Coat: It is a long-haired dog that therefore requires daily maintenance. During long daily walks, its long fringes pick up leaves, dirt, mud, thorns etc. To prevent its coat from matting, it must be brushed after each outing. Some cockers are regulars at groomers. But beware the grooming of the cocker is particular. The coat should never be clipped for fear of ending up with curly coat upon regrowth.