By Elena 
Can working cocker spaniels make good pets?
Working Cocker Spaniels are lively, friendly dogs who quickly bond with their families.
They tend to get along well with kids and other pets and make wonderful companions.
Just be ready to give them plenty of playtime and attention, and they’ll be happiest spending time with you.
- Working Cocker Spaniels are lively, friendly dogs who quickly bond with their families.
- What’s the difference between show cocker and working cocker?
- Do working cocker spaniels bark a lot?
- What is the lifespan of a working cocker spaniel?
- Can working cockers be left alone?
- Why is it called a cocker?
- Working cocker spaniels for sale
- Working cocker spaniel puppies
- Working cocker spaniel size
- Are working cocker spaniels difficult?
- Do working cocker spaniels like to cuddle?
- Can you run with a working Cocker Spaniel?
What’s the difference between show cocker and working cocker?
Working Cockers are generally leaner and more energetic, with longer, narrower muzzles and shorter coats made for hunting efficiency.
Show Cockers, in contrast, have rounder skulls, shorter muzzles, and long, feathered ears and coats, bred to meet the elegant standards of the show ring.
In short, the working type looks more athletic and field-ready, while the show type has the fuller coat and classic look.
Do working cocker spaniels bark a lot?
Working Cockers can be quite vocal – bred to alert hunters, they often bark to signal excitement or if someone’s at the door.
They’re not generally considered noisy yappers like some small breeds, but if they don’t get enough exercise or mental stimulation, they may bark out of boredom.
With consistent training and plenty of walks or playtime, you can usually keep their barking in check.
What is the lifespan of a working cocker spaniel?
These spaniels usually live around 10–14 years on average.
With good diet, regular vet check-ups, and lots of love, many hit the higher end of that range.
In other words, you can look forward to over a decade together if you keep them healthy.
Can working cockers be left alone?
They really do crave company – working cockers can get bored or anxious if left alone too long.
A bored Cocker Spaniel is likely to bark, whine, or even chew things up out of frustration.
Short absences with interactive toys and a good walk before you leave can make alone time much easier on them.
Why is it called a cocker?
The name actually comes from their hunting roots: these dogs were bred to flush out woodcock birds in England .
So “cocker” literally refers to the woodcock, the type of game they were used to hunt.
That’s the origin of both the Working Cocker and Show Cocker Spaniel names.
Working cocker spaniels for sale
If you’re looking to buy a Working Cocker Spaniel, start with reputable gun-dog breeders or hunting-dog clubs rather than pet stores.
These dogs can be in demand, so prices range widely – sometimes a few hundred to a couple thousand dollars or pounds depending on bloodlines.
Considering adoption or rescue is a great idea, too; many country kennels and breed rescues have Cocker Spaniels needing homes.
Working cocker spaniel puppies
- Working Cocker puppies are bundles of energy and curiosity.
They will chew on everything and demand attention, so make sure to puppy-proof your home and have lots of toys on hand.
Early socialization and gentle training (and plenty of exercise) will channel that wiggly energy into a confident, well-behaved dog.
Working cocker spaniel size
These Cockers are medium-sized dogs. The average Cocker Spaniel stands about 13.5–15.5 inches tall and weighs roughly 20–30 pounds .
Males usually run toward the upper end of that range, with females a bit smaller.
Either way, they’re compact and sturdy – built for running around, not towering over your family.
Are working cocker spaniels difficult?
Not really – they’re smart and eager to please. Working Cockers are generally easy to train, but their high energy means you can’t slack on exercise.
If they don’t get enough outlets for play, they might become a bit mischievous, so an active owner who can keep up is a must.
Do working cocker spaniels like to cuddle?
Absolutely. Cocker Spaniels, whether working or show types, are affectionate and love to be near their people.
After a long walk or play session, a Working Cocker will happily flop into your lap or lean against your leg for pets.
Once their boundless energy is spent, they’ll soak up all the cuddles you can give.
Can you run with a working Cocker Spaniel?
Yes – these dogs were built for stamina.
A Working Cocker Spaniel will happily jog alongside you and often never seem to tire out.
Of course, start with shorter runs to build endurance and keep them on leash in unfenced areas, but generally they make energetic, friendly running companions.