Cocker Spaniel insurance
Is the Cocker Spaniel the right dog breed for you?
Our guide to living with an English Cocker Spaniel
The English Cocker Spaniel is popular both for hunting and as a family dog – and we totally get why. It’s hard not to fall for this cheerful, friendly dog with a tail that never stops wagging.
Cocker Spaniel quick facts
- Size: Males: 39-41cm, Females: 38-39cm
- Lifespan: 12-14 years
- Weight: 13-15kg
- Colours: English Cocker Spaniels come in many colours, both solid and multi-coloured
- Temperament: Happy, active, easy to train
- Common health issues: Cancer, allergies, ear and eye problems
- Country of origin: England
Where does the Cocker Spaniel come from?
As the name suggests, the breed originated in England, where it was used to hunt woodcocks (a wading bird) in the late 1700s. Its hunting purpose influenced its name – since it was mainly used for woodcock hunting, it became known as the "cocking spaniel," which eventually shortened to "Cocker Spaniel." It was officially recognised as a separate breed in 1892. Since then, it has grown in popularity for both hunting and companionship.
Cocker Spaniel temperament
Affectionate
They crave contact and need a daily routine filled with walks, activities, and plenty of cuddles and affection. They form strong bonds with their owners, which can make it difficult for them to be left alone for long periods. Be prepared to spend a few weeks training them to handle being home alone.
Active
Cockers are energetic dogs with a zest for life. They’re always ready for action, which can sometimes make them overexcited and result in them whining or barking. It’s essential to teach them to stay calm from puppyhood so they learn that not everything needs to happen at top speed.
Routine
These dogs thrive on routine and have a strong internal clock. They’ll let you know when it’s time for their regular activities. Their tendency to expect consistent schedules, combined with their social nature, can make them quite demanding. Early training is key to prevent them from becoming too attention-seeking.
Protective
Some Cockers may guard their food and chew toys. This is something to work on early, helping them develop a healthy relationship with food, treats, and toys.
Welcoming
These dogs are cheerful, friendly, and lively – their tails are always on the move. They love being around people and other dogs. A little four-legged comedian that will definitely make you smile!
Do Cocker Spaniels bark a lot?
Most Cockers will make noise if someone is at the door or in the garden. They may also bark when something exciting happens or when they need a walk. If you prefer a quieter dog, this breed may not be the best fit.
Are Cocker Spaniels good family dogs?
Yes, Cocker Spaniels make excellent family dogs. They’re gentle, affectionate, and enjoy being around people, including children. Their playful and friendly nature makes them wonderful companions. However, they need regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviour.
Can Cocker Spaniels be left alone?
Cocker Spaniels struggle with being left alone for long periods. They are social dogs and may develop separation anxiety if isolated. When left alone, they can become destructive or excessively vocal. It’s best to provide company or interactive toys if you’re away for a few hours.
Cocker Spaniel size & appearance
The English Cocker Spaniel is a medium-sized dog with an athletic build. They stand 38-41cm tall at the shoulder and weigh 13-15kg. Their most distinctive features are their soft, expressive eyes, long, heavy ears that hang close to their head, and a constantly wagging tail.
There are two types of English Cocker Spaniels:
1. Field Trial Cocker (Hunting)
Bred for hunting, they’re smaller, have less coat, and have a slightly higher energy level.
2. Show Cocker (Companion)
Bred more for appearance, they’re longer-legged, have thicker coats, and are often kept as family pets in active households.
If you’re looking for a dog purely for hunting, the Field Trial Cocker is a true working dog. However, if you enjoy countryside walks, scent games, or light dog sports, the companion variety is ideal – even if you want a hunting partner with a slightly calmer pace.
The breed comes in 18 recognised colour variations:
- Solid: Black, red, golden, brown, black with tan, brown with tan (no white except a small patch on the chest).
- Bicolour: Black and white, orange, and white, brown, and white, yellow, and white (with or without ticking).
- Tricolour: Black and white with tan, brown and white with tan.
- Roan (mottled): Blue roan (black and white mottled), orange roan, yellow roan, brown roan, and tan-pointed versions of blue and brown roan.
Thinking of getting a Cocker Spaniel puppy?
What to expect week-by-week from your first year
We've laid out what to expect from your first year with your new puppy with a series of videos and helpful guides, so you can stay on top of your training, keep your pup healthy, and help them settle in to their new life.
Cocker Spaniel grooming
English Cocker Spaniels have silky, smooth coats that require trimming 4-6 times per year (less for Field Trial Cockers). If you don’t want to handle this yourself, regular visits to a groomer are necessary. However, you’ll still need to trim the fur inside their ears and around the ear canal. Since their ears hang close to their head, the warm, moist environment can lead to fungal infections – keeping the area well-groomed helps prevent this.
Their paw hair also grows quickly, so trim it regularly to avoid bringing home unwanted dirt from walks.
You’ll need a brush and comb for weekly grooming (or more often if your dog has a thicker coat) to prevent tangles. Field Trial Cockers have less hair, making grooming quicker but still necessary. They shed most during seasonal changes, but expect some shedding year-round.
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Cocker Spaniel training
- 1
Keep it varied
The English Cocker Spaniel is quick to learn and eager to work. They need an active owner who enjoys long, varied walks every day.
- 2
Prioritise recall
The breed has a strong hunting instinct, even in the companion variety. It’s vital to train recall early and consistently, as their drive to chase wildlife can easily cause them to dash off. When in hunting mode, they can become quite independent and forget their training in their excitement.
- 3
Try some tasks
Cockers adapt well to both city and country life. They travel easily if accustomed to it from a young age. Although they enjoy being family pets, they thrive when given hunting-related tasks, such as scent games, retrieving on land and water, and tracking. They’re also excellent at agility and rally obedience (a dog sport where handler and dog teams navigate a course).
- 4
Keep them stimulated
Cocker Spaniels need at least one hour of daily exercise. They’re energetic and enjoy activities like walking, running, and playing fetch. Without regular physical and mental stimulation, they can become bored and develop unwanted behaviours. Off-lead play in safe areas is ideal for burning off their energy.
- 5
Teach them calm
Their enthusiasm for activity can sometimes get the better of them, making calm training essential.
Cocker Spaniel health issues
English Cocker Spaniels are generally healthy but can be prone to common health issues and certain conditions.
English Cocker Spaniels are generally healthy but can be prone to common health issues and certain conditions, including:
Cancer
Common in older dogs
Ear infections
Due to their long, floppy ears
Eye problems
Including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Allergies
Leading to skin irritation
Hip Dysplasia
If your Cocker Spaniel has difficulty standing or jumping, it could indicate that hip dysplasia is developing. Hip dysplasia is when the ball and socket in the hip do not fit correctly, which can cause the joint not to function normally. Further signs to watch out for include stiffness in their movements or swaying when walking. It’s essential to visit your vet immediately after spotting symptoms, as hip dysplasia can usually be helped by medication, therapy, or surgery.
Ottis Externa
The Cocker Spaniel has long ears, which can trap bacteria or dirt and cause inflammation in the external ear canal. It would be best to clean their ears regularly; otherwise they can easily become infected. The problem is often diagnosed as Ottis Externa, which can cause severe inflammation in the ear and become very uncomfortable.
For some health problems, such as lethal acrodermatitis, there’s DNA testing. Breed clubs can help provide advice and information on what tests your dog may need and how to get these done.
To reduce the chances of your dog having certain conditions, it’s also wise to make sure the parents of your puppy have had all the relevant health screening. Again, seek advice from respected breeders, clubs, or vets for more information.
Cocker spaniel health tips
Exercise
A Cocker Spaniel loves playing games and going for walks to help them use their high amounts of energy. You’ll want to give them up to an hour of daily exercise to keep them healthy, depending on their size and age. The exercise requirements can become tricky to balance as they age, as they usually enjoy two long walks as adults. When they are puppies, two short walks daily should be enough. However, as an older adult, you’ll want to stop longer walks as it can give them health problems.
Feeding
Puppy Cocker Spaniels are typically fed 3 or 4 times daily, but giving adults one or two portions daily is usually recommended. The diet for your Cocker Spaniel should consist of mostly natural foods to provide them with all the vital nutrients they need to maintain their good looks. Also, don’t forget to give them plenty of cool water when the weather is hot, as they are at quite a high risk of overheating.
Training
Fortunately, Cocker Spaniels are eager to please their owners and are quick learners, which makes them easy to train. They are also highly intelligent and aware, so teaching them simple things to fetch a ball and sit can be fun. Also, they are fantastic at sports competitions as they are keen to please their owners.
Grooming check-ups
Cocker Spaniels have great-looking ears; however they need to be cleaned at least once a week to keep them free from harmful bacteria, which can lead to an infection. You’ll also have to brush their teeth as they are prone to bad breath and gum disease. To help ensure the health of your Cocker Spaniel, it’s a good idea to ensure your vet checks them for de-fleeing and de-worming.
“Cocker Spaniels are incredibly cute as puppies and adults but not without health issues. One of the conditions we most frequently see with this breed are allergic skin disorders which may require long-term treatment. Only a lifetime insurance policy will help with the costs for as long as necessary.”
Robin Hargreaves
Agria Vet Panel Lead, Veterinary Surgeon for 30 years and former British Veterinary Association President.
What we love most about Cocker Spaniels
Cheerful & loving
A Cocker Spaniel’s cheerful nature and constantly wagging tail are infectious. They genuinely want to make you happy, making them incredibly easy to love.
They love cuddles
Cockers love snuggling and physical affection; they crave physical contact and will happily lounge on the sofa with you. There’s nothing better than this kind of fluffy cosiness.
Plenty of fun
This breed is full of energy, making them exciting to be around. They’re keen to play, explore, and exercise and their eagerness to work makes them excellent training companions.
Things to consider before getting an English Cocker Spaniel
Naturally, owning an English Cocker Spaniel comes with responsibilities. They’ll need a fair amount of care and attention. Here are three important things to keep in mind.
- 1
Taming their energy
Their high energy levels need to be managed. It’s important to teach your Cocker Spaniel how to relax, otherwise, they may become stressed (and so might you!). Their hunting instincts and bubbling energy can also make them easily distracted, which can affect their focus during training.
- 2
A routine-loving dog
Routine is key for a Cocker Spaniel. They thrive on consistency, so it’s best if your lifestyle matches theirs. Without a regular schedule, both you and your dog may struggle with daily life.
- 3
Coat care
Grooming takes more effort than you might expect. You’ll need to make time for regular brushing and maintenance. Start this from puppyhood so your Cocker Spaniel learns to enjoy grooming sessions as a pleasant bonding experience.
Cocker Spaniel insurance with Agria
With Agria, it's lifetime, every time
At Agria, we believe pet insurance should last your pet’s lifetime. Our policies provide lifelong vet’s fees cover for illnesses and injuries. This means that, provided your policy is renewed each year, your maximum benefit will be refreshed, providing cover for ongoing conditions.
So, whatever happens throughout your Cocker Spaniel's life, we’ll always be there for you and your dog!
Up to £20,000 towards vet bills every year
So your dog can get the care they need.
We pay 98% of claims*
And we can pay your vet directly, so you can focus on your dog.
No increase in your premiums when you claim
So you don’t have to worry about the cost of insurance when you go to the vet.
Free vet video calls, 24/7
Which means help is always on hand if you’re worried.
Dotty about dogs? Get a 5% multi-pet discount when you insure more than one pet with us.
*Based on all Agria Pet Insurance claims received between November 2023 and May 2024.
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Cocker Spaniel FAQs
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