About the Cocker Spaniel
Having a pet improves one’s personality, lifestyle and even health, provided it is the right per for you. It is a pleasure to have a Cocker Spaniel dog as a pet because they are loyal, active and lively, which means they will provide you with exercise, laughter, and relaxation. However, they are also a great responsibility. Here you will find the pros and cons of having a Cocker Spaniel, which hopefully will help you make the right decision.
Is the Cocker Spaniel Right for You?
The Cocker Spaniel is a medium-sized pet, which typically weighs approximately 28 to 30 pounds when mature, and reaches a height of approximately 17 inches. The Cocker Spaniel is a strong, sturdy dog that was initially developed for hunting purposes. Thus, they are agile and active, which will require daily outdoor activity such as walks and other exercises.
The Cocker Spaniel is not a dog that can be confined to an apartment, though they can live in one comfortably. This type of breed enjoys people and children, and they mostly try to please everyone all the time. You will find that they are intelligent and fast learners, but can get stubborn at times. However, mostly their temperament is friendly and playful, rarely ever turning aggressive.
The Cocker Spaniel’s Health Problems
Cocker Spaniels are usually a healthy breed. The health problems typical to this breed affect mostly the eye and ears. Cocker Spaniels are prone to ear infections because of their long ears which can easily carry bacteria, thus creating different types of ear problems. Cocker Spaniels also are prone to eye infections or cataracts as they age.
Yearly eye check-ups are recommended to ensure you treat any problems as they occur or even prevent it when you can. Vaccinations and regular check-ups are a must for all age dogs but more so when you get a puppy that needs to build a strong base and immune system.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Owning a Cocker Spaniel
Acquiring a Cocker Spaniel is like getting a new friend. You will find that you will get quickly attached to your pet dog and soon become inseparable. Cocker Spaniels get along with children of all ages. They are quiet and gentle with elderly folks as well, rarely ever barking excessively to bother your neighbors or attack without being provoked.
The advantage of having a Cocker Spaniel is that you will have a new family member in the house that will make you smile every time you see him or her, and thus bring joy and happiness in the house. You will also be more active, as you will need to take your dog out for his or her daily needs, which means you will probably have better health because of your Cocker Spaniel.
The disadvantages of having a Cocker Spaniel are that you need to provide your dog with daily walks (whether you feel like it or not), food, and also ensure that he or she will have a proper health care plan in case of any emergency, which in turn means you will have to dedicate time and money. All these points may not be after a disadvantage if you are ready to have another member added to the family.
With all the points laid out, you can now decide whether you are ready to have a Cocker Spaniel. If you do, then it is time to educate yourself about the history and origin of the Cocker Spaniel in order to understand your pet friend better.
