Cocker Spaniels

[Parkranger]

Just wondered if anyone had one and what they were like? I haven't had a dog for a few years and I've heard they're good 'starter' dogs.

Once trained, would they be able to keep up on a hack etc?

 

[Scranny_Ann]

Cockers are wonderful dogs,

but very very excitable and hard work!! Some can be challenging to train

. Personally i would be looking into a springer if you particularly want a spaniel.

They're full of energry so would be able to keep up on a hack no probs! We have both and imo our springers are more 'level headed' than our cocker and defo easier to train!! With Willow (our cocker) you give and inch she will take a mile every time, have to be thinking about her every move before she even thinks it!!

See what others say but thats my opinion! xx

 

[GinaB]

Ah but don't forget S_A, I would imagine yours are working bred cockers, which are very different to the show bred cockers

 

[Tiger2]

I have a working cocker which are very different from the show cocker. I certainly would not describe him as a starter dog as he has an endless resreve of energy. They also need a lot of training otherwise will become extreemly unruly. On the plus side he is the kindest natured dog I have ever come across. He loves everybody and I can trust him completely with children and other dogs and he always comes to call

There is never a day that he dosn't make me and my other half laugh

I have had othar dogs in the past including springers. I would now have no other. Milo is truly my best friend

If I had the faintest idea of how to add photos I would

 

[foxviewstud]

i personally am not a fan of cockers all the pet ones i have ever dealt with are very ignorant, panic for no reason and are generally a pain i am yet to meet a good one (never dealt with working ones so maybe thats where i went wrong lol). if you are looking for a starter dog why not look at a greyhound or lurcher as they burn the energy very quickly, very loyal and easy to have around generally

 

[Scranny_Ann]

[ QUOTE ]
Ah but don't forget S_A, I would imagine yours are working bred cockers, which are very different to the show bred cockers

[/ QUOTE ]

Good guess

and i've never had any experience with show cockers, maybe they would be a bit less 'manic' ??

x

 

[TURBOBERT]

We have had cockers for years - recently working cockers Spatz now aged 12 and a new pup 9 weeks.

We also had show cockers and I would have to say the show type are much more suited to an urban environment I feel. They are a good size and good family dogs - but the roans have a better temperament usually than the solids. We live in the country and have lots of space and enjoy the energetic workers though. They need exercise - and discipline - perhaps harder than the show type in this regard.

Go to a reputable breeder though - really worth while!

 

[bumper]

Not good "starter" dogs really. I have had a cocker spaniel, working and show bloodlines, and although he was easy to train to sit,stay,heel etc. he was to type when off the lead......find a scent and we are off! Recall was a problem because of this even though I am experienced in training dogs.

Yes, one could keep up on a hack, but would probably veer off at times to follow a scent and keep you on horseback worrying/waiting/yelling.

TBH you are best going on the Kennell club website and typing in your likes/dislikes/needs into their search engine to find the breed for you. Thats if you want a pedigree.

 

[merlinsquest]

Do the red ones still suffer from the Cocker Rage Syndrome thingy that they used to get a few years ago???

 

[TURBOBERT]

No idea - but if you go for a 'solid' you take the risk of temperamental problems. Roan in show type is best - any in working strain.

 

[AmyMay]

My friend had the most lovely black Cocker. He's her first dog. He's a super dog, and is no problem as a 'first' dog.