Meet the English Cocker Spaniel – the dog with eyes that could win an Oscar for Best Doe-Eyed Look and a wavy coat so effortlessly luxurious, they perfectly embody Beyoncé’s lyrics: ‘I woke up like this. I’m flawless.’
From whether English Cocker Spaniels are hypoallergenic to do they bark a lot, we’ve got all the facts you need. Plus, don’t miss our fun ‘What Dog Am I?’ quiz to find out which Spaniel breed best matches your personality!
Sure, they started out as bird-hunting experts, but these days? They’ve happily swapped muddy fields for plush couches. But there’s more to this charming breed than good looks. In this article, we’re shining the spotlight on the English Cocker Spaniel.
In this article
- English Cocker Spaniel: Dog breed overview
- Are Cocker Spaniels smart?
- Do Cocker Spaniels bark a lot?
- Do English Cocker Spaniel dogs shed?
- Are English Cocker Spaniels hypoallergenic?
- How do you groom a Cocker Spaniel dog?
- How much is a Cocker Spaniel dog in New Zealand?
- How many Spaniel dog breeds are there?
- When “I Wonder What That Tastes Like” Gets Expensive
English Cocker Spaniel: Dog breed overview
| Origin | United Kingdom, with historical ties to Spain (hence the name “Spaniel”) |
| Group | Gundog (Sporting Group) |
| Height | 41 – 43 cm (males), 38 – 41 cm (females) |
| Weight | 13 –14.5 kg |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years (or longer with excellent care) |
| Temperament | Gentle, intelligent, playful, and people-oriented |
These stats may sound standard, but they’re the foundation of why Cocker Spaniels shine. They’re sturdy but compact, playful but loyal, and… let’s not forget… ridiculously cute.
Are Cocker Spaniels smart?
hunting dogs, they have a strong work ethic and excel at tasks that challenge their brains.
Their intelligence shines in activities like:
- Agility courses
- Scent work
- Obedience training
But be warned: Their smarts come with a side of charm, and they know how to work those puppy-dog eyes to get what they want!
Do Cocker Spaniels bark a lot?
If you’ve been wondering, “Do Cocker Spaniels bark a lot?”, the answer is – not excessively. English Cocker Spaniels aren’t chronic barkers, but they’re vocal enough to let you know when something’s up. With proper training, you can channel this behaviour into polite, situational barking.
That said, do Cocker Spaniels bark a lot when left alone for long periods? Sometimes, yes. Like many companion breeds, they can become vocal if they’re bored or anxious, so keeping them mentally and physically stimulated can help reduce unnecessary barking.
Do English Cocker Spaniel dogs shed?
Yes, English Cocker Spaniels shed – but it’s more of a moderate, manageable kind of shed rather than a full-on fur explosion. You’ll notice a bit more fluff floating around during seasonal changes, like spring and autumn. Regular brushing helps keep it under control, with 2–3 times a week doing the trick for most pups.
But if your Spaniel’s coat is particularly thick or wavy, daily brushing can help prevent those pesky tangles and mats. A medium slicker brush works wonders for removing loose hair and keeping that silky coat looking its best.
Pro tip: Book in for a professional grooming session every 6–8 weeks. It’s the easiest way to tackle those hard-to-reach spots and keep your Spaniel looking fresh and fabulous.
With a little consistency and the right tools, you’ll manage the shedding like a pro.
Are English Cocker Spaniels hypoallergenic?
No, English Cocker Spaniels are not hypoallergenic. If you’ve been wondering, “Are English Cocker Spaniels hypoallergenic?” the answer is no – they produce dander and shed, which can be triggers for allergy sufferers. If you’re sensitive to pet allergens, spend time around one before committing to see how your body reacts.
How do you groom a Cocker Spaniel dog?
Grooming a Cocker Spaniel might feel like a part-time job, but it’s also part of the joy of owning one. Their luscious locks require consistent care to stay tangle-free and shiny. Here’s what’s involved:
- Brushing: Daily, if possible, especially around high-maintenance areas like their ears and underbelly.
- Bathing: Once every 4-6 weeks with a dog-friendly shampoo. Too frequent baths can strip their coat of natural oils.
- Ears: Clean weekly. Those floppy ears are adorable but prone to infections if not properly maintained.
- Professional Grooming: Every 6-8 weeks for trims and tidying up. It’s worth investing in a groomer experienced with the breed.
- Teeth and Nails: Brush their teeth regularly and trim nails monthly. Healthy teeth = a happy pup.
How much is a Cocker Spaniel dog in New Zealand?
In New Zealand, an English Cocker Spaniel puppy in 2026 costs anywhere from $2,000 to $3,500. Prices can vary depending on factors like breeder reputation, pedigree, and coat colour.
It’s so important to find an ethical dog breeder because they’re more likely to do genetic tests that help mitigate the passing on of certain genetic health conditions. This can help your English Cocker Spaniel puppy live a long happy life and even go some way towards reducing the likelihood of behavioural conditions springing up.
Are Cocker Spaniels good with kids?
Yes! Their gentle and affectionate nature makes them ideal companions for children. They’re patient but playful, a perfect mix for family life.
Do Cocker Spaniels need a lot of exercise?
Oh, yes. These pups have energy to burn! Aim for at least an hour of daily activity – think walks, games of fetch, or even agility courses. A tired Cocker Spaniel is a happy (and well-behaved) pup.
Can Cocker Spaniels live in apartments?
As long as they get their daily dose of exercise and mental stimulation, they’re happy campers. Just don’t expect them to be couch potatoes 24/7, they’ll still need their zoomie sessions.
How many Spaniel dog breeds are there?
The Spaniel family tree is impressively diverse. Globally, there are around 15 recognised Spaniel breeds. Here are some notable members:
- American Cocker Spaniel – Smaller, with a luxurious coat and rounder eyes.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – Regal and charming, often seen as lap royalty.
- Welsh or English Springer Spaniel – High-energy field dogs with boundless enthusiasm.
- Clumber Spaniel – Stocky, dignified, and surprisingly laid-back.
- Sussex Spaniel – Golden-liver coated with a steady, sweet disposition.
- Irish Water Spaniel – Curly-coated and loves a good swim.
It’s worth noting that the exact number of recognised Spaniel breeds can vary slightly, depending on the kennel club or breed registry. Some organisations may include less common or regional breeds, while others stick to a more standardised list.
When “I Wonder What That Tastes Like” Gets Expensive
Regardless of how healthy any pet is, it’s a good idea to have pet insurance in place as a safety net. Take English Cocker Spaniel dogs, for example – with their playful nature and love for adventure, a surprise vet visit isn’t out of the question. Depending on your plan, having dog insurance can help pay towards the costs of surgery, X-rays, bloodwork, hospitalisation, stayovers at the vet clinic and much, much more.
With PD Insurance, you get 1 month free pet insurance when you buy your pawlicy. Click below and get your quote today.