General characteristics of the breed
When you bring a cocker spaniel into your home, be sure that you will have to forget about the concept of loneliness. It's so great to always be in inventive (in the field of fun and entertainment) company. Dive into the mud or bury yourself in a snowdrift - with joy! But your dog definitely won’t want to go for a walk on a rainy day.
The Cocker Spaniel dog requires human presence to maintain a full life. No one in the world will reward you with such devotion. To all the advantages of living with him in the same room, you can add one more thing - he is a reliable guard of your home. The dog regards his owner as a leader, and himself as his protector, servant. He monitors all human movements and affairs both in the house and outside it. If you want to distract your guardian for a while, you'll need some kind of treat. But it is necessary to remember about the cocker’s excessive love for food, which often leads to obesity.
Life and character
The English Cocker Spaniel is generally cheerful and sociable with the world around it, but there are shy and timid representatives of this breed. It is also interesting that females differ from males in their persistence and strong desire to dominate in everything.
This four-legged friend always tries to please his owner, so he quickly learns what he is taught. He is kind to children and strangers, gets along well with other pets, and is sensitive to changes in human mood. In addition, the Cocker Spaniel is very talkative. When bringing him into the house, be prepared for his loud barking.
Most often, representatives of this breed live up to 11-13 years, since at one and a half years they are already considered adults. At this age, both females and males have a height of 38 to 40 centimeters, weight - from twelve to fourteen kilograms.
Over time, the Cocker Spaniel breed has gained popularity among breeders. The mating took place indiscriminately—few people thought about the consequences. This has led to a change in the character of dogs: aggressive and nervous specimens are found.
Health and major diseases, life expectancy
Most spaniels are distinguished by good health and stamina.
However, some of these dogs may be susceptible to a number of diseases such as:
- Inflammatory diseases of the ears.
- Eye diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, retinal atrophy or dystrophy.
- Turn of the century.
- Joint dysplasia.
- Cardiovascular diseases.
- Autoimmune diseases.
- Allergy.
- Epilepsy.
Toy spaniels may also be predisposed to specific diseases, such as bleeding disorders due to congenital platelet deficiency, hydrocephalus, and habitual dislocation of the knee joint.
The life expectancy of spaniels, depending on the breed, ranges from 10 to 16 years..
Maintenance and care
It is better for this species to live and develop, of course, in a village, but in a big city apartment this is also possible, provided that you walk your pet as often as possible. On the street you can witness a cocker trying to catch a pigeon, crow or cat. In order for your pet not to touch them, he needs to be raised and trained from the first months of life.
It is also important that the dog cannot be left alone for a long period of time. Loneliness negatively affects his behavior and disrupts his psyche.
The English Cocker Spaniel has a silky, frizz-free coat that must be brushed and combed regularly, otherwise it will become tangled. It is not advisable to bathe frequently, but you must constantly monitor the health of your ears - this is a weak point. Physical activity is allowed in as much as the owner can withstand. Instead, you can take regular short walks. You need to feed no more than three times a day. The dog of this breed is unusually gluttonous and prone to obesity.
Where to buy a puppy
When choosing a puppy, give preference to club pets so as not to purchase a mixed breed or a defective animal. Carefully study all documents: pedigree, field diplomas of parents, results of genetic tests.
Kennels of the Russian hunting spaniel:
- Shchelkovo ROSy, Moscow – russianspaniel.ru;
- Russian spaniels of St. Petersburg, St. Petersburg – russianspaniel-spb.com;
- Spaniels of the Volga region, Kazan – spaniel-volga.ru.
Russian cocker spaniel
This species was created with the aim of acclimatizing British spaniels for hunting in Russia. The fact is that here the animals brought from England could not adapt, and there was nothing to talk about catching prey with their help.
The Russian Cocker Spaniel is the result of crossing an English Springer Spaniel and a Cocker Spaniel. The new breed was able to establish itself as an excellent hunter of waterfowl, field and marsh birds, as well as hares and hare. It has all the qualities of an ideal gun dog: scent, hearing, endurance, stubbornness and a desire to hunt.
Spaniel Club. All about spaniels.
Spaniels first appeared in Spain, where the breed was named after its homeland. Then dogs with floppy ears and thick, short hair were brought to England.
Initially, spaniels were divided into two groups: some were taken to hunt on land, others - in water. Nowadays there are many types of this breed, but this article will describe English, American and Russian cocker spaniels. To better understand the difference between them, it is necessary to carefully study the characteristics of each type.
English cocker spaniel
The Englishman is a hunting dog, famous for its agility and endurance. It differs from the American and Russian spaniels in the size and shape of the head, as well as the proportions of the body. The English Cocker has a dense and muscular build, a short body, strong and strong paws, and his head is arched and slightly flattened in front, his eyes are kind, cheerful, with an intelligent expression. The English Cocker has a long, silky and thick coat of various colors, which must be carefully groomed and trimmed regularly.
Differences between American, English and Russian
cocker spaniels
The Englishman is considered an excellent hunter who is persistent and resilient during the hunt. Hunting instincts and sense of smell are developed at the highest level.
He is friendly towards people and other dogs and loves to play with children.
We invite you to watch a video about the English Cocker Spaniel...
American Cocker
It is known that the English cocker spaniel is considered the ancestor of the American one, which explains their similarity. The American is inferior in size and weight to the English and Russian, and the main difference between this breed is its sculpted, beautifully set head with regular lines. The American Cocker's skull is rounded, its eyes are oval, and its ears are long. The American Spaniel boasts a long and silky coat in colored, black, black and tan, or any other solid color with or without tan.
Despite the excellent hunting qualities of the American Cocker, he is better known as a participant in various exhibitions and simply the main favorite in the family.
Differences between American, English and Russian
cocker spaniels
The American is a very smart and loyal dog.
We invite you to watch a video about the American Cocker Spaniel...
Russian Spaniel
The Russian Cocker Spaniel was obtained by crossing different species of this breed. The breeders wanted to get a spaniel that would be most suitable for working in local hunting grounds. The body of the Russian Spaniel is slightly longer than the body of the American and English Spaniels, the legs are also long, which makes it easier to gallop in difficult places. The head is light, slightly convex at the sides, the profile is almost rectangular, and the upper lip is slightly rounded. Wool of medium length and thickness should not be cut.
Thanks to their endurance and excellent sense of smell, Russian spaniels have become very popular hunters. With a Russian cocker you can hunt not only ducks, but also corncrake and hare.
Differences between American, English and Russian
cocker spaniels
In addition, the Russian Cocker is a family pet and a good housekeeper!
We invite you to watch a video about the Russian Spaniel..
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Spaniels are dogs of Spanish origin. Today, under this name there are several subspecies of hunting fold dogs. When choosing an animal for the role of a pet, it is important to know, for example, how an English spaniel differs from a Russian one.
Character traits
Friendly, energetic and balanced in his actions. These traits have recently become the main reasons for the popularity of the Cocker Spaniel breed. The dog loves walks, swimming, does not chase chickens and geese, and is friendly with other pets.
In the forest it becomes an indispensable assistant for a person, and at home it becomes a best friend. And in general, the owner for her is God. She will follow him into fire and water. There will be no end to her tirelessness and devotion, but, unlike the English spaniel, she understands when to become invisible and not get in the way.
English Setter
The English Cocker Spaniel is a popular hunting dog breed that is distinguished by its large reserves of energy, strength and endurance.
The body of these dogs is quite powerful and muscular, therefore, they can cope with heavy loads and long movements.
English Setters not only look luxurious and elegant in appearance, but also have an aristocratic character, which they show by their habits and behavior in general.
Care
If you properly care for your Russian Cocker and give him enough attention, health problems will not arise. It can be kept both in private houses and in apartments, subject to regular long walks and games with a stick or ball, which the cocker spaniel badly needs. Caring for it is not as burdensome as caring for other breeds.
It is easy to comb and clean the fur - it is enough to do it once a week, and 2-3 times a year to remove dead areas. It does not need a haircut, as after it the fur begins to grow too thick. But trimming is sometimes required in areas of unnaturally reddish shades of fur.
The ears should be given special attention: check and clean them as often as possible, as due to their length they are prone to ear infections. It is necessary to feed at least twice a day, or even three. Due to an incorrect or disrupted diet, not only obesity, but also food allergies can occur.
Whom to choose
Russian is recommended for hunters of upland game and waterfowl. It is unpretentious and hardy, does not require complex coat care. It is better to keep such a dog in a private home. In addition, this dog is not recognized by the International Association of Cynologists, therefore it does not participate in competitions held by the organization.
The English Cocker is more suitable for owners who dream of a show career as a pet that can also be taken for hunting. To maintain its presentable appearance, professional coat care and associated costs will be required. “Englishman” with its size is ideal for keeping in a city apartment.
Both dogs are sociable, kind and cheerful. They get along well with children, do not offend familiar cats, have good health, live long and are easy to train.
Spaniels are dogs of Spanish origin. Today, under this name there are several subspecies of hunting fold dogs. When choosing an animal for the role of a pet, it is important to know, for example, how an English spaniel differs from a Russian one. Features of the English Spaniel This is a reliable and beautiful dog. It is distinguished from the Russian spaniel by its more compact size, head shape, and body proportions. She is well built, active, intelligent and [...]
American subspecies
The American Cocker Spaniel was bred in America through selection of the English spaniel species. Due to its chic appearance and character, the breed continues to be bred in the United States, as well as in many other countries.
Despite its beauty and elegance, this dog is very durable, with strong bones. Easily and quickly gets used to sudden changes in lifestyle.
Distinctive features of Russian
Its body and legs are longer than those of the English Cocker, making it easier to run through tall grass and other difficult terrain. His head is lighter, with a rectangular profile and a rounded upper lip. The body is covered with hair, less long and dense in comparison with the cocker. She never gets her hair cut.
The Russian dog is less decorative, but he is an excellent duck and hare hunter, and at home he is a faithful watchman and family favorite.
Character and behavior of the breed
The American Cocker Spaniel will become your irreplaceable friend and a favorite of the whole family. This is an obedient, kind, energetic dog with a pleasant character. For health and long life, it is better to keep it in a house or apartment. But in no case should you forget about walks and games in the fresh air. The Cocker will be happy to live with other pets. A special warm relationship arises with a cat if they grow up together. Condescending towards the pranks of small children.
Obedience and training are important and necessary rules for a dog of this species. He will be able to overcome loneliness for a short time on his own, but leaving the dog for a long time is dangerous. This is fraught with the appearance of negative habits, such as barking or howling for no reason. It also affects the dog's nervous system.
Varieties
Spaniels are small or small dogs, but they have their own characteristics in maintenance and care. You need to approach the choice intelligently and first read about the types of spaniel breeds with a description.
English cocker spaniel
Photo from Wikipedia website
English Cockers are descended from Norfolks, ancient hunting dogs. They hunt birds, their sensitive nose and sharp eyesight help them in this.
The English are stocky dogs of medium height with a long body. Height – up to 40 centimeters, weight – up to 12-15 kilograms. They have large drooping ears and wavy fur. They are dexterous and strong, fit, but without care and proper physical activity, dogs begin to be lazy and quickly gain weight.
English Cockers are predominantly red, white and black. There are standard representatives of the breed and mini varieties. The British are family men. They love spending time with people and are good with children. They always capture the mood of the owner and the general atmosphere of the house. They treat strangers with caution. They do not communicate with cats and small animals.
English Springer Spaniel
Photo from Wikipedia website
Springers are the oldest breed of hunting dogs. They are the ancestors of all modern spaniels. For centuries, springers were companions of English lords. They earned the love of Renaissance artists and can often be found in famous paintings.
There are two types of springers: hunters and show dogs. Externally, they do not differ from each other, but they have different skills and differently developed instincts. This is a large and muscular dog, fast and agile in its movements. It grows to 45-55 centimeters and weighs up to 30 kilograms. The coat has weak waves and lies close to the body. White and brown or black.
Springer is the ideal family man. He is kind, loyal, active. Loves to play with children and accompany adults on runs. Such dogs are an ideal choice for active people who have time for walks.
American Cocker Spaniel
Photo from Wikipedia website
American cockers are considered one of the most charming and graceful dogs. They originated from the English breed. A dog from one of the breeders gave birth to puppies with big eyes and wavy hair. In England they were not accepted, but in the United States of America they became a separate branch of spaniels. Already in the 1930s, the British and Americans were recognized as different breeds and were no longer crossed.
Americans are smaller than the British: height reaches 37-40 centimeters, weight - 12-14 kilograms. They have a more snub-nosed muzzle and a silky coat that resembles flowing curls. Color white, black or brown.
This is the ideal family man who fits into life in the city. They are less active, do not require long walks and too active games. At the same time, they are more affectionate and good-natured, strongly attached to their owner and suffer in his absence. However, their mood can be changeable. Do not disturb your dog if it needs solitude or peace.
American Water Spaniel
Photo from Wikipedia website
American water spaniels are not particularly well known in the world, but in their homeland they have gained love and popularity. The exact origin is not known: some call their ancestors Irish mermans, others call them curly-coated retrievers. Like other representatives, mermen are excellent hunters. They are usually taken with them when hunting hares and waterfowl.
Americans are large and stocky. They grow up to 60 centimeters and weigh up to 30 kilograms. They can be recognized by their thick and curly fur of a deep chocolate shade. The muzzle is smooth, and there is no hair at all on the tail. They are very hardy, but at the same time genetics have given them serious diseases that manifest themselves in many representatives.
Water spaniels are smart, picking up commands on the fly. Due to these qualities, they are often trained in circus tricks. They are sociable and active. They quickly become attached to their family and are ready to protect them from any troubles.
Kooikerhondje
Photo from Wikipedia website
Kooikerhondje comes from Holland. The name literally translates as “duck hunter.” They are distinguished by a unique hunting style: by wagging their tail and moving, they attract ducks to the shore where people have set traps. Dutchies are small and have a square body. Height – 40 centimeters, weight – 15 kilograms. The coat is white with red markings. It has the ability to repel water and dirt, which is valuable during hunting.
The main purpose of the Kooikerhondje is hunting. His "family" skills are not as developed as other spaniels. They are attached to their owners, but remain calm and reserved. They are indifferent to children and prefer to stay away from them. They do not like loud screams and laughter. They need training and moderate physical activity.
Irish Water Spaniel
Photo from Wikipedia website
This is the largest representative of the group. They are large and heavy. At the withers, the height reaches 60 centimeters, and the weight reaches 35 kilograms. They are not well suited for apartment life, as they need fresh air and space for activities. Following their hunting instincts is important to them.
The peculiarity of the Irish is wool. They are covered with soft curls of a dark chocolate color. Sometimes dogs have bangs and a goatee. The ears are covered with fur.
Despite their short stature, the Irish are often cowardly. Their fear can turn into aggression. They need proper upbringing, and then the pet will grow up loyal, affectionate and obedient. Quiet, calm disposition.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Photo from Wikipedia website
One of the oldest representatives of the group. For several centuries, Cavalier King Charles was a favorite of the English nobility. They were originally bred for hunting, but then the courtiers began to want to take them home. However, they were too large to be kept indoors, so breeders crossed them with Tibetan Spaniels and Japanese Chins.
The result was the Cavalier King Charles, a small dog with a round, flat muzzle. Height is only 30-32 centimeters, weight does not exceed 8 kilograms. The body is compact. The coat is white with brown, red or black markings.
Cavaliers have truly “royal” endurance. They are calm and balanced. They do not lose face when interacting with children and small animals. They love to be the center of attention and catch people's gazes. This is an excellent choice for those who want to take their dog to shows.
Features of maintenance and care
Like any pet, the American Cocker Spaniel requires regular walks every day. Although these pets can remain inactive for a short time, this does not benefit them in any way. Playing in the yard with various objects like small rubber balls will help them stay in good physical shape.
The dog will also be happy with the training. Teach him to bring you newspapers or slippers. Involve him in all sorts of activities of your family, because he is a full part of it! The Cocker enjoys any active activity and will be grateful that you save him from boredom.
When properly maintained, dogs of this breed live about 14-16 years. They weigh relatively little: from 8 to 12 kilograms. The height at the withers reaches approximately 38 centimeters.
To prevent tangling of the silky coat and maintain the excellent appearance of the spaniel, it is enough to brush it every other day. Unlike the English Cocker, the American Cocker can be bathed frequently. As a rule, they even like this process. Use proven, high-quality dog shampoos to avoid rashes and other skin allergies.
Spaniels often develop eye diseases, so pay special attention to their prevention. Clean them gently with damp cotton pads without soap. Also, don’t forget to trim your nails and clean your ears and teeth.
Who is better to have
Russian spaniels are often purchased by hunters who plan to hunt upland game and waterfowl. These dogs are less demanding in terms of living conditions, unpretentious, and hardy. However, the British are also quite adapted to hunting: after special training, they can even be taken on a wild boar. Well, in catching ducks, woodcocks and other small things, they are not inferior to other breeds.
The English cocker is a very beautiful dog. But her long coat requires regular care: washing, combing, cutting and trimming. In order for the dog to maintain a presentable appearance, the owner will have to master the art of grooming or regularly take the pet to the salon, which will not be cheap.
Those who want to participate in international exhibitions should place their bets on the English Spaniel. The Russian is not recognized by the International Cynological Association - he will not be able to participate in competitions. English cocker puppies are more expensive, and they are easier to purchase, because breeders often specialize in this particular breed.
The compact Englishman is more suitable for keeping in a city apartment. Owners of a private house should opt for a Russian spaniel - he can live indoors and in an enclosure, act as a hunter, companion and watchman.
Spaniels are sociable, friendly and active dogs that get along well with children and pets. These pets are distinguished by good health, live long, are quickly trained, and are undemanding to living conditions.
