Cocker Spaniel
The English Cocker Spaniel is a compact, merry gundog with an inexhaustible nose. Working and show lines differ markedly in energy, so establish which you are buying.
Key facts
Lifespan
11–13 years
Height
38–43 cm
Weight
12–15 kg
Exercise
~75 mins/day
Grooming
High
Shedding
Moderate
Training
Easy to train
First-time owners
Suitable
About the Cocker Spaniel
Cockers were bred to flush and retrieve woodcock, and the working strain still carries that drive — they need scent work and structured exercise, not just walks. Show-bred Cockers tend to be calmer and heavier-coated. Both are affectionate and people-focused, and both need their ears checked constantly.
Living with a Cocker Spaniel
Adaptable, but needs daily mental work — a bored Cocker becomes a noisy one.
- Good with children
- Good with other pets
- Suitable for first-time owners
Health
Conditions this breed is commonly predisposed to. This is general information, not veterinary advice — speak to a vet about any specific animal.
- Chronic ear infections (long drop ears)
- Progressive retinal atrophy and glaucoma
- Familial nephropathy
- Acral mutilation syndrome in some working lines
Ask the breeder for
- BVA/KC hip scores and annual eye testing
- DNA tests for PRA (prcd), familial nephropathy and AMS
Buying a Cocker Spaniel
Ask whether the litter is from working or show lines and be honest with yourself about which you can exercise. Budget for professional grooming every 6–8 weeks.
Read the full safe-buying guideCocker Spaniels for sale
No Cocker Spaniel adverts are live right now. New adverts are posted daily — or set your sights a little wider.
All dogs for saleCocker Spaniel FAQs
How long do Cocker Spaniels live?
A Cocker Spaniel typically lives 11–13 years.
How much exercise does a Cocker Spaniel need?
Around 75 minutes of daily exercise for a healthy adult, plus mental stimulation. Puppies need considerably less until their joints have matured.
Are Cocker Spaniels good for first-time owners?
Yes — Cocker Spaniels are generally suitable for sensible first-time owners who will train and exercise them consistently.
What health tests should a Cocker Spaniel breeder have done?
BVA/KC hip scores and annual eye testing. DNA tests for PRA (prcd), familial nephropathy and AMS.
Breed information is general guidance compiled by the PetHome team. Every animal is an individual — meet it, and its mother, before you commit. This is not veterinary advice.