Cocker Spaniel
Approximately 13-14.5 kg for both sexes.
Males: 39-41 cm; Females: 38-39 cm at the shoulder.
12-15 years
United Kingdom
About the Cocker Spaniel
The English Cocker Spaniel is a sturdy, compact, and well-balanced sporting dog, known globally for its 'merry' disposition and intelligence. As the smallest member of the Gundog group, they possess a unique combination of a capable working drive and a deeply affectionate nature that makes them exceptional family companions. Their soulful, dark eyes and long, lobular ears are defining features that reflect their sensitive and eager-to-please personality. In the field, they are tireless workers, navigating dense cover with a bustling action, while at home, they are devoted 'velcro dogs' who thrive on human interaction. Historically, the breed was refined in the United Kingdom to hunt woodcock, requiring a dog that was small enough to penetrate thickets but strong enough to retrieve. This heritage is evident today in their powerful, ground-covering gait and keen sense of smell. While they have transitioned successfully into suburban life, they retain a strong hunting instinct and a need for regular mental and physical engagement. Their lush, silky coat requires significant maintenance, but their loyalty and infectious joy make the grooming effort well worth it for the dedicated owner.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
The Cocker Spaniel is the embodiment of 'balance' in the show ring, standing on well-boned legs with a deep chest and a short, strong loin. Their movement is a hallmark of the breed—powerful, rhythmic, and effortless, showing great reach and drive without any hint of clumsiness. What truly distinguishes the Cocker is its 'ever-wagging' tail, which must remain in constant motion while moving, signaling the breed's authentic, joyful temperament. They possess a noble head carriage and a soft, melting expression that is uniquely captivating among gundogs, making them perennial favorites for 'Best in Show' titles due to their undeniable charm and structural harmony.
In Australia
The Cocker Spaniel has been a fixture in Australia since the late 19th century, with the Cocker Spaniel Club of Victoria being established in 1931 to maintain the breed's working and show standards.
Bred For
Flushing and retrieving upland game birds, specifically the Woodcock (from which the name 'Cocker' is derived).
Temperament
Gentle, affectionate, full of life, and exuberant, often described as 'merry' due to its constantly wagging tail.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
(), Familial Nephropathy (FN), , Otitis Externa (chronic ear infections), and .
Grooming Needs
High; requires daily brushing to prevent matting, regular professional clipping every 6-8 weeks, and frequent cleaning of the ear canals.
Living Suitability
Adaptable to apartment living if provided with significant daily outdoor exercise, but thrives best in a home with a small to medium-sized yard.
Good with Kids
Excellent with children; they are patient and playful, though supervision is recommended with very young children due to the dog's exuberant nature.
Good with Other Pets
Generally very social and peaceful with other dogs and can live harmoniously with cats if introduced early, though they may chase small birds.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and eager to please, making them very responsive to positive reinforcement and food-based rewards, though they can be sensitive to harsh corrections.
Coat & Colours
Flat, silky texture, never wiry or wavy, with sufficient feathering on the legs and body.. Solid colors (Black, Red, Golden, Liver), Parti-colors (Roans, Bicolors, Tricolors). White is only permitted on the chest in solid colors.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
The Cocker Spaniel is more likely to experience chronic ear infections due to their long, heavy leathers which trap moisture; regular ear cleaning and keeping the hair on the underside of the ear trimmed is a necessary routine. They are also prone to Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), so sourcing from DNA-tested parents is vital. Owners should be aware that their 'merry' nature can sometimes manifest as separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, as they truly crave human company. While they are moderate shedders, their coat can become easily matted without professional grooming, requiring a commitment to coat care. Like many food-motivated breeds, they are predisposed to obesity, so maintaining a strict feeding schedule and avoiding excessive treats is key to their long-term health. Some Cockers may also develop skin sensitivities or 'hot spots' on standard commercial diets, often thriving when transitioned to a fresh, limited-ingredient raw diet.
Feeding Guide for Your Cocker Spaniel
Healthy Weight
13-14.5 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
280-420 grams
A fresh, raw diet is highly beneficial for Cockers, providing the bioavailable nutrients needed for their high-energy lifestyle and luxurious coat. Feed approximately 2-3% of their ideal adult body weight daily. For a 14kg adult, this equates to roughly 280g to 420g of fresh food per day, split into two meals. Adjust based on activity levels and body condition.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
Supplement suitability and dosage depend on the individual dog’s diet and health. Discuss targeted supplementation with your veterinarian or qualified canine nutrition professional.
An ideal raw diet for a Cocker Spaniel should focus on lean proteins like Kangaroo and Beef to manage weight, combined with high-fat sources like Salmon or Sardines for coat health. Majestik Pet Food's range of Beef and Kangaroo blends provide the essential amino acids they require. Include roughly 10% edible bone for dental health and 10% organ meat (liver/kidney) for vitamins. Adding leafy greens and berries provides the antioxidants needed to support eye health, which is a known breed sensitivity.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Cocker Spaniel Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Cocker Spaniel? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
5-7 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.