Cocker Spaniels are a rather ancient breed of hunting dog. Back then, land hunting dogs were categorized by size, with Cocker Spaniels separated from the large breeds and from small or toy hunting dogs. Then, because Cocker Spaniels and toy dogs had different uses, they were divided again; toy dogs eventually became British Toy Spaniels, primarily kept as pets and companion dogs. Cocker Spaniels remained in the hunting dog category, making them the smallest hunting dogs in size. There are two types of Cocker Spaniels: American Cocker Spaniels and English Cocker Spaniels. The English Cocker Spaniel originated slightly earlier than the American Cocker Spaniel. Later, when Cocker Spaniels were brought to America and carefully bred, they developed distinctions in size, body, and coat color compared to the original English Cocker Spaniels. The two types are similar yet different, each possessing its unique charm.

Adorable little Cocker

　　Suitable Owners
　Cocker Spaniels are intelligent, alert, with round and full eyes, long ears shaped like leaves, a head that is round but not exaggerated, clear eyebrows, a broad and deep muzzle, a large nose with well-developed nostrils, and teeth with a scissor bite. Their bodies are solid, compact, muscular, and well-proportioned. Their temperament is gentle, lively, cheerful, and friendly. They are deeply loved by women and children and are full of affection and loyalty to their owners and families, making them extremely beloved family companions.
　Due to their innate hunting dog nature, Cocker Spaniels are very active and love exercise. If not disciplined during puppyhood, they may cause havoc in your home when they grow up. Therefore, if you are busy with work, consider whether you have enough time to take care of one. Cocker Spaniels also have a thick coat, especially on the chest, abdomen, and legs, with long and dense feathering that requires daily brushing and frequent bathing. Hence, they need a diligent owner who enjoys grooming. Caring for a Cocker Spaniel requires patience and careful attention, including regular ear cleaning—are you ready for this?
　Daily Care and Grooming
　Cocker Spaniels’ abundant coat must be brushed and bathed regularly; otherwise, it will collect dust, dirt, and mats, affecting their appearance and risking illness from germs. Their large, floppy, adorable ears often cause trouble, so earwax must be cleaned periodically with cotton swabs or gauze. Additionally, tartar must be removed regularly, and their eyes washed with mild saline to prevent diseases caused by unclean facial features. You should also frequently inspect their skin by checking under the coat—the skin's health is the dog's natural barrier.
　Cocker Spaniels are lively and active, so they must receive an appropriate amount of daily exercise, ideally taking them for walks 2-3 times a day. Usually, a walk in the morning and one in the evening or afternoon is suitable. If kept indoors with insufficient activity or space, they may become restless or even ill.
　Feed them at fixed times and amounts, avoiding overfeeding, especially foods high in fat and protein, to prevent obesity, which affects physical health and lifespan. Hygiene is also essential: leftover food must be discarded thoroughly, water changed daily, and feeding utensils cleaned and disinfected.
　Cocker Spaniels are highly trainable; training should be integrated into feeding and exercise times to correct bad habits promptly, preventing stubbornness and willfulness.

Big eyes, long ears, very adorable.

　　Common Diseases
　Cocker Spaniels may suffer from sudden diaphragmatic rupture, allergic dermatitis, proctitis, chronic nephritis, cataracts, otitis externa, liver diseases, dermatitis, urinary stones, mammary swelling, hypothyroidism, etc. Recent studies show increasing rates of hepatitis, cataracts, and senile cataracts in Cocker Spaniels. Dermatitis and otitis externa are the most common illnesses, and liver dysfunction and intestinal insufficiency may also affect them.
　Their ears are the most susceptible to disease, with otitis externa being the most prevalent. If there is some black discharge or dirt in the ear, specialized ear cleaner or ear drops can usually cure it. However, if symptoms include ear swelling, ulceration, foul odor, and constant head shaking, it might indicate severe otitis externa, otitis media, or inner ear infection.
　Owners should pay close attention to abnormal signs during feeding, sleeping, or walking and seek veterinary care promptly if any are found. Homemade dog food often fails to meet the nutritional needs of American Cocker Spaniels and can cause liver and heart function problems. It is better to choose specialized dog food combined with vegetables, vitamins, and other nutrients.