New column - Dog breeds - Today we introduce one of the most popular breeds, the English Cocker Spaniel.... Enjoy reading!
- dogpediaitaly
- Oct 2
- 18 min read
English Cocker Spaniel: The eternally cheerful companion with the long ears
The English Cocker Spaniel is one of the most popular and recognizable dog breeds in the world. Known for its cheerful temperament, athletic elegance, and distinctive long, silky ears, this medium-sized dog wins the hearts of everyone it meets.
Originally a tireless hunter, today he is an excellent companion dog, prized for his loyalty and constantly wagging tail. If you're considering bringing a Cocker Spaniel into your home or simply want to learn more about this magnificent breed, you've come to the right place.
1. Detailed history and origins of the English Cocker Spaniel
The English Cocker Spaniel has a rich and complex history that is inextricably linked to European hunting traditions, especially British hunting.
Spaniels: An old family
The term "spaniel" (presumably from España , Spain) has been documented in Europe since the Middle Ages and generally refers to hunting dogs whose job is to flush and shoo game (hence the probable origin of the English verb "to spaniel").
Until the 17th and 18th centuries, spaniels were classified not so much by their breed, but by their working environment:
Water Spaniel
Country Spaniel (Country Spaniel)
Land Spaniels, in turn, were divided according to their size:
Springer Spaniels: The largest dogs used for flushing large game.
Cocker Spaniel: The smallest and most compact dog used for hunting woodcock , hence its name. Its small size and robust build make it ideal for dense undergrowth and brambles, terrain inaccessible to larger dogs.
Selection and official recognition
The actual differentiation and selection into different breeds took place in the 19th century, at the same time as the founding of the first kennel clubs and the growing interest in cataloguing dog breeds:
Weight criterion: Originally, weight was the only distinguishing criterion between a Cocker Spaniel and a Springer Spaniel. All Spaniels weighing less than about 25 pounds (approximately 11–12 kg) were considered Cockers.
Founding of the Kennel Club: With the founding of the English Kennel Club (KC) in 1873, breeders began to standardize the appearance. The Cocker Spaniel was not officially recognized as a separate breed until 1893 .
The "Obo" Dynasty: A key figure in the breed's history was a dog named Obo , born in 1879. Many modern Cockers trace their lineage back to this specimen, who helped define the characteristics we associate with the breed today.
Separation from the American Cocker Spaniel
It is important to note that the history of the English Cocker Spaniel is different from that of the American Cocker Spaniel .
In the USA, breeding focused on dogs with shorter muzzles, rounder heads, and significantly denser, more striking coats. The two breeds were officially separated in the 1940s. The English Hound retained its original, more athletic build, more distinctive head, and longer muzzle—essential hunting traits.
From woodcock lover to family companion
In the 20th century, especially after the Second World War, the English Cocker Spaniel enjoyed increasing popularity as a companion dog.
Despite this development, the breed has split into two main lines:
Working line: More athletic, with less lush fur, selected for their sense of smell and hunting ability.
Show line: More robust, with more luxuriant fringes and coat, selected for their aesthetic standards.
Today, the English Cocker is universally loved for his ability to combine the enthusiasm and stamina of a hunting dog with the sensitivity and devotion of a perfect family pet, while maintaining his distinctive “ Merry Cocker ” spirit.
Absolutely! Let's delve deeper into the section dedicated to the physical characteristics and breed standard of the English Cocker Spaniel according to the official criteria of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). This is crucial for understanding the elegance and functionality of this breed.
2. Physical characteristics and breed standard of the English Cocker Spaniel
The English Cocker Spaniel is the epitome of sporting elegance; it is a compact, robust, and harmonious dog, built for hunting in dense forests. Its breed standard (FCI No. 5, Group 8 – Retrievers, Flushing Dogs, and Water Dogs) precisely defines its characteristics.
General structure and size
The Cocker is a medium-sized dog, well balanced and never rough.
feature | FCI standard | Functional significance |
Height at the withers | Males: 39–41 cm; females: 38–39 cm | It must be low enough to move easily through the undergrowth. |
Ideal weight | 12.5 - 14.5 kg | A correct weight ensures agility and endurance. The breed should not be heavy. |
Body | Compact and powerful, with a well-developed chest. The topline is firm and straight. | When hunting, compactness is synonymous with strength and agility. |
corridor | Loose and broad, it covers the ground well. The tail is constantly moving when active, a sign of joy and activity. |
The head: Sweet and expressive
The Cocker Spaniel’s head is one of its most distinctive features and gives it a unique expression:
Skull: Well developed and slightly domed.
Muzzle: Square, not pointed, of proportional length (not short like the American Cocker).
Stop: Well defined, but not exaggerated, contributing to a sweet, intelligent expression.
Eyes: Large but not prominent, dark brown or hazel, in harmony with the coat color. They should express sweetness and liveliness .
Ears: Long, lobed, and set low, at eye level. They are covered with abundant, smooth, silky hair, giving the dog an air of elegance.
The coat: silky and functional
The English Cocker's coat is not only beautiful, but also essential for its work in difficult climatic and environmental conditions.
Texture: It should be smooth and silky , never stiff like a wire or wavy/curly. This texture helps repel water.
Feathers : The fur is longer and more luxuriant, forming fringes (or feathers) on the ears, chest, belly, and back of the legs. These fringes provide protection.
Colors: The breed has an extraordinary variety of colors, which are divided into categories:
Solid colors: Black, red, fawn, brown (liver), black, and tan. Only a small white patch on the chest is permitted.
Multicolored (multicolored): combinations of white with black, red, brown, lemon yellow.
Roan: A dense, even mixture of white and other colored hair (e.g. blue roan, orange roan, liver roan).
tail
In countries where the practice is still legal, it is traditionally shortened; in Italy (and where it is permitted), it is left natural. It is carried horizontally and is constantly moving, especially when the dog is working or happy. This constant movement has earned it the nickname "Merry Cocker."
These physical characteristics create a dog that is strong and resilient in the field, but at the same time elegant and affectionate at home – a balance that makes it unique.
3. Temperament and character: The “Merry Cocker”
The English Cocker Spaniel is commonly known as the "Merry Cocker" due to his cheerful temperament and almost constantly wagging tail. He is a sociable, affectionate , and intelligent dog by nature. However, it is important to note that temperament can vary greatly depending on the breed.
Common characteristics of the entire breed
Regardless of the breeding line, all English Cockers have essential characteristics in common:
Strong attachment: They have a very strong bond with their family and suffer from loneliness. Their greatest happiness is participating in home life.
Sensitivity: They are very sensitive to tone of voice and coercive training methods. They respond best to positive reinforcement and encouragement.
Search instinct: They have a strong hunting instinct. They love to sniff the ground, track down objects, and retrieve them. Search and retrieve games are therefore important activities for their mental well-being.
Energy: Although they are medium-sized dogs, they have high energy levels and need vigorous exercise every day.
Character division by selection line
The English Cocker Spaniel has developed into two main lines. While they retain their fundamental cheerfulness, they exhibit distinct differences in temperament and activity level. A third group consists of individuals bred exclusively as companion dogs.
1. Cocker Spaniel of the working line
These specimens are selected solely for their hunting abilities and effectiveness in the field, not for aesthetic reasons.
feature | Description |
temperament | Extremely lively, tireless, focused on work and hunting. Less inclined to relax at home. |
Energy level | Very high. Requires hours of activity and intense mental stimulation (retrieval training, agility , working tests ). |
motivation | Extremely high hunting and searching motivation . They are most persistent when focused on a single trail. |
Look | Lighter structure, longer snout and less dense fur with fewer fringes so as not to hinder movement in the undergrowth. |
Ideal for... | Experienced owners, active hunters or high-level dog sports enthusiasts. |
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2. Show Cocker ( show line or conformation line )
These specimens are bred according to the official breed standard (FCI), with emphasis on elegance, head shape and coat quality.
feature | Description |
temperament | Cheerful and playful, but generally calmer and more relaxed than working dogs. They are the classic "couch potatoes." |
Energy level | Medium-high. They need long walks and opportunities to play, but after activity, they relax best at home. |
motivation | High associative (desire to please) and social motivation . They are typically very docile and well-suited to dealing with the public. |
Look | More robust structure, larger head and, above all, a much thicker coat with lush fringes (which requires intensive grooming). |
Ideal for... | Active families who want a beautiful and affectionate dog, but do not have a need for hunting or extreme sports. |
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3. Companion Dog Cocker Spaniel (Not selected)
These specimens are often the result of random matings or those that were not matched for health or standards. Their temperaments can vary greatly.
feature | Description |
temperament | Unpredictable. With good socialization, they are affectionate; however, careless selection can lead to increased shyness or, conversely, nervousness/aggression . |
Energy level | Variable. Often below the working limit, but with the risk of hyperactivity if not treated properly. |
Behavioral challenge | These dogs are at greater risk of developing what is known as “Cocker Rage” (a rare sudden aggression syndrome), which is often associated with poorly selected bloodlines, especially solid red or gold colors. |
Ideal for... | Anyone willing to adopt a dog and ensure socialization and targeted training to cope with an unsteady temperament is always advised to contact reputable breeders. |
The importance of consistent training
Due to their intelligence, coupled with a certain stubbornness (especially if their strong hunting instinct is not satisfied) and their sensitivity, Cocker training must include the following steps:
Consistent and strict: The owner must set clear rules from the outset.
Friendly and positive: Never punishing. Punishment hurts their sensitive minds.
Work and play based: Use their tendency to fetch and search to keep them mentally engaged.
In summary, the English Cocker Spaniel is an exceptional dog that offers unconditional love and endless joy. However, the choice between a working and a show/companion line should be based on the activity level the owner can handle.
4. Most important skills and strengths by selection line
The English Cocker Spaniel is a bundle of energy and intelligence. His abilities stem from his hunting heritage, but later selection has emphasized various aspects of his talents.
Dexterity/Strength | Working line | Show line | Corporate line (generalist) |
Search and smell instinct | Exceptional. The centerpiece of the selection. He works tirelessly with great speed and tenacity. Ideal for truffle hunting or dog tracking . | Large. He has a strong hunting instinct that must be controlled, but he prefers to play fetch or sniffing games for fun. | Medium-high. Their sense of smell is good, but their attention span can be somewhat weaker. They are excellent at hide-and-seek if there is food in the house. |
Resistance and mobility | Maximum. Physique optimized for endurance and speed. Able to work for hours under demanding conditions. They are born athletes. | Very tall. Excellent physical endurance. Perfect for long hikes and dog sports like agility and flyball . | Good. However, he requires intensive daily exercise (an hour or more). His endurance makes him an excellent jogging companion . |
Training inclination | Excellent (obedience). With consistent training, he responds very well to commands. He is most focused during work and training. | Excellent (affiliation). Thanks to his strong desire to please his owner ( a "pleaser" ), he is easy to train basic commands. He responds very well to positive reinforcement. | Good. He's eager to learn, but needs a lot of patience and consistency to overcome tantrums or distractions. |
Family dog and temperament | Good. Affectionate, but high energy and a hunting instinct require more careful handling in a purely domestic environment. | Exceptional. The epitome of a "Merry Cocker." Very sociable, playful, and docile . The ideal choice for families with children seeking a loving and elegant companion. | Very good. Generally the most relaxed of the three lines. Their main strength is unconditional camaraderie and loyalty. |
Social skills | At work, he tends to be independent , focused on the task, but friendly. | Extremely friendly toward strangers, children, and other animals, he is an ideal candidate for animal therapy . | Very friendly. Excellent with family and guests, but can be more sensitive or reserved if not thoroughly socialized as a puppy. |
Summary of general strengths
The English Cocker Spaniel, in all its variations, is characterized by some special characteristics:
Versatility: It is one of the most versatile breeds in the world and is ideally suited as a specialized hunting dog, dog sportsman or companion dog.
Unconditional affection: His loving nature and constant displays of joy (his famous wagging tail) make him a natural stress reliever and loyal companion.
Working Intelligence: He has remarkable intelligence combined with a willingness to cooperate with humans, a fundamental characteristic of retrieving and flushing dogs.
In summary, the choice of line (working, show, or companion dog) should depend entirely on the future owner's lifestyle. If you're looking for a high-performance athlete or hunting dog, the working line is a must. If you're looking for the perfect balance between beauty, docility, and activity, the show line is the best choice.
Absolutely. We analyze in detail the weaknesses and potential challenges facing an English Cocker Spaniel owner, breaking them down by breed line, and highlighting the most critical health and behavioral issues.
5. Weaknesses and possible challenges of the English Cocker Spaniel
Although the English Cocker Spaniel is a cheerful and affectionate dog, he has specific weaknesses and problems that require careful attention from the owner. These problems vary in severity depending on whether the dog comes from a working, show, or companion line.
Behavioral and training challenges
Challenge | Working line | Show line | Corporate line (generalist) |
Hyperactivity/need for movement | Very high. Without intensive daily work (hours of hunting or sports), they can develop neurotic behavior , destructive tendencies, and an inability to relax at home. | Medium-high. When not physically active, she can become exuberant and boisterous, jumping on others or causing trouble to release pent-up energy. | Variable. Often lazier, but excess, unexpressed energy may manifest itself in excessive barking or a more moody or stubborn temperament. |
Separation anxiety | Large. Very attached to its owner. It suffers greatly from loneliness if not gradually accustomed to it from an early age. Can be destructive if left alone. | Very high. Due to the strong attachment motivation (love for the family), this is one of the most common behavioral disorders. It requires full integration into family life. | Very high. If raised without the right character selection, the strong bond can quickly turn into obsessive dependency and resulting anxiety. |
Stubbornness / Auditory Selectivity | Very large in the field. When his hunting instinct is activated, he can completely ignore calls and concentrate on the scent. Requires exceptionally rigorous recall training. | Average. Can be stubborn if they don't perceive consistency or positive authority from their owner, but are generally more inclined to obey in order to please. | High. Without selection, it can become more resistant to training and convert intelligence into cunning to get what it wants. |
Uncontrolled aggression (Cocker Rage) | Extremely rare. Working lines are selected for balance and reliability. | Rare. It can occur in some poorly selected bloodlines (often solid red/gold), but it is a genetic syndrome and not a typical trait. | Higher risk. Carelessly selected companion lines have a slightly higher probability of developing temperament instability or neurological syndromes. It's important to choose reputable breeders. |
Challenges in the areas of care, health and management
The English Cocker also has physical weaknesses and grooming needs that should not be overlooked.
1. Health and specific physical problems
Chronic ear problems: Their long, heavy, and hairy ears are their Achilles heel. They trap dirt, heat, and moisture, making the breed extremely susceptible to:
Recurrent ear infections: Chronic inflammation and infections, often caused by bacteria or yeast.
Mites and parasites: Difficult to detect in the thick fur.
Solution: Mandatory weekly cleaning and constant monitoring.
Eye problems: Predisposition to various genetic diseases:
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): A degenerative disease that leads to blindness.
Cataract: It can occur at a young age or in adulthood.
Familial Nephropathy (FN): A severe, inherited kidney disease that is often fatal at a young age. Reputable breeders test their breeding animals for this disease.
Joint problems: Like many medium-sized breeds, they can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and patellar luxation , especially if weight is not controlled.
2. Tendency to obesity (the most critical point)
The English Cocker Spaniel is notoriously voracious . This keen appetite makes him an excellent training dog (with food being the primary reinforcer), but also puts him at a very high risk of obesity .
Effects: Obesity has devastating effects on joints (hips and kneecaps) and drastically reduces life expectancy. It also worsens respiratory problems and reduces heat tolerance.
Management: A strictly controlled diet, precise food dosage, and great care are required to avoid giving in to food demands. Otherwise, you risk having a dog that is affectionate but lethargic and sickly.
3. Commitment to grooming
The coat, especially in the show line where it is thicker, requires constant care:
Daily brushing: Essential to prevent knots, especially in the bangs and behind the ears.
Professional grooming: Required every 6–8 weeks to maintain the shape and health of the coat, using techniques such as trimming or clipping .
In summary, the English Cocker Spaniel is a wonderful dog, but one that requires an active, attentive, and disciplined owner. Anyone willing to invest time in exercise, early socialization, and careful ear care will find the "Merry Cocker" a loyal and endlessly cheerful companion.
Perfect. Let's analyze the crucial aspects of the English Cocker Spaniel's care, health, and nutrition in detail, highlighting how different their needs can be depending on whether they are a working, show, or companion dog.
6. Care, health and nutrition: A personalized approach
Daily care for the English Cocker Spaniel requires a great deal of commitment, especially when it comes to grooming and disease prevention. Their needs vary greatly depending on their physical activity and coat type, which are determined by their breeding line.
A. Grooming and hygiene
Grooming is the most visible care effort and varies greatly depending on the amount of hair.
Aspect of care | Working line | Show line | Corporate line (generalist) |
Coat | Shorter, coarser, and less dense fur with minimal fringe. Functional for keeping away dirt and thorns. | Long, silky, and lush coat with well-developed fringes. Maximum adherence to aesthetic standards. | Variable, but often thicker than a working coat. It requires grooming, but not as much effort as a show dog. |
Brush | 2-3 times a week. | Daily (mandatory). Focus on the fringes to avoid knots that can irritate the skin. | Depending on hair volume, daily or every other day. |
Professional grooming | Occasional trimming or clipping to maintain the roughness and function of the coat. | Regularly (every 4–6 weeks) . Essential for shaping the pony and maintaining its classic elegance. | For practical reasons, a short cut ( puppy cut ) is often chosen every quarter or half year. |
Ear hygiene | Important and daily. Although the ears have less fur, they still need to be checked and cleaned frequently due to their constant contact with dirt and damp ground. | Important and daily. Long hair around the ears retains even more moisture, increasing the risk of ear infections. | Important: Brush your dog's coat at least once a week. Long ears are a common genetic weakness. |
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B. Nutrition and weight control
Feeding must be appropriate to energy consumption to avoid obesity, a common weakness of the breed.
Nutritional aspect | Working line | Show line | Corporate line (generalist) |
Calorie requirements | Large. Requires a diet high in protein and high-quality fat, especially during periods of intense activity (hunting, competitions). | Medium-high. A balanced diet that supports both physical activity and coat health (often with added omega-3 fatty acids). | Moderate. The risk of obesity is very high. The owner must pay close attention to calorie intake and measure portions precisely. |
Weight control | Fundamental to performance. | Indispensable for joint health. | Extreme caution. A sedentary Cocker Spaniel will gain weight extremely quickly. No additional food! |
integration | Sometimes supplementation with chondroprotectors for the joints and vitamins to support physical exertion is necessary. | Possible supplement for coat shine (biotin, fish oils). | Rarely required except in cases of specific defects. |
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C. Health and Prevention
All strains of the English Cocker Spaniel are prone to certain hereditary diseases. The difference lies in the careful selection of the breeder.
1. Genetic and orthopedic screening
A reputable breeder, regardless of the line, must test the breeding stock for the following:
Familial nephropathy (FN): A severe, inherited kidney disease that often causes death at a young age. Genetic testing is essential.
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): eye disease that leads to blindness (genetic test).
Hip and elbow dysplasia: Official X-ray examinations to ensure that the parents do not have severe forms.
2. Line-specific prevention
Working line: Greater attention to exertion-related injuries (muscle tears, thorn wounds) and lumbosacral dysplasia (more common in dogs that work intensively).
Show and company guidelines: Increased emphasis on weight control and supplements for joint health, as a heavier physique combined with less exercise increases the risk of orthopedic disorders.
In short, caring for a Cocker Spaniel is a lifelong commitment: They will receive love and joy, but they must also ensure thorough grooming, strict weight control, and constant attention to their ears. Choosing breeders who perform all genetic and orthopedic testing is the best way to prevent and reduce future problems.
Perfect. We conclude our analysis by taking a detailed look at the English Cocker Spaniel's role in the family , outlining the ideal owner type and the most suitable home environment for each of its main breed lines.
7. The Cocker Spaniel in the family: Who is it suitable for?
The English Cocker Spaniel is known as a family dog. He is a loyal and affectionate companion, but his well-being depends heavily on his environment. Choosing the right breeding line is crucial for a peaceful and satisfying coexistence for all.
criterion | Working line | Show line | Corporate line (generalist) |
Owner's activity level | Very high. Requires owners who participate in almost daily exercise (running, hiking) or dog activities (agility, obedience, work trials). Short walks are not sufficient. | Active. Requires 1–2 hours of exercise daily (long walks, structured play sessions). Ideal for families who love nature. | Medium active. Suitable for those who want to exercise daily but don't need the intensity of other product lines. However, there is a risk of boredom and weight gain. |
Time for the dog | Maximum. It requires not only time for physical exercise, but also for training and constant mental stimulation (sniffing games, problem-solving ). | Large. He needs a lot of interaction and can't stand being alone for long periods (separation anxiety). He needs time for training and grooming. | Large. Although he's less physically demanding, his strong bonding instinct makes him dependent on human presence. Not suitable for those who work full-time outside the home. |
Suitable with children | Yes, but under supervision. He is full of energy and sometimes boisterous; his enormous energy can be too much for very young children. For older, more active children, he is an excellent playmate. | Excellent. Very patient, tolerant, and playful. He is the typical family dog. However, due to his sensitivity, he requires that children respect his space. | Very good. Generally adaptable, but careful supervision and early socialization are recommended to ensure a balanced temperament. |
Ideal environment | A house with a secure garden. He can't live alone in an apartment unless he has daily access to a large area where he can run around. Ideally, he can "work" safely outside. | Apartment or house with a garden. Adapts well to city life if his exercise needs are met. This dog lives indoors , close to his family. | Any home environment. It's important that the owner is present and provides regular walks to prevent obesity. |
Required experience | At least Intermediate/Experienced. The owner must be consistent and stubborn, and familiar with positive reinforcement training to manage the dog's strong hunting instinct and stubbornness. | Beginner (Active). Excellent as a "first dog" for anyone willing to complete basic training courses and dedicate time to exercise and grooming. | Beginner (relaxed). Physically easier to handle, but the owner must be prepared to deal with their strong emotional dependence and extreme greed. |
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The Cocker Spaniel: Not suitable for everyone
The English Cocker Spaniel is generally not the ideal choice for:
Sedentary people: He isn't satisfied with short walks on a leash. Inactivity leads to physical and behavioral problems.
For those who travel a lot, loneliness is their worst enemy. If you work eight hours a day and can't take your dog with you or arrange for a dog sitter , you should consider a different breed.
If you are looking for a guard or defense dog: Although he barks to warn others, the Cocker is too sociable and friendly to be a true guard dog.
Who doesn’t like brushing? Grooming your dog’s coat, especially ear care, is an essential part of your routine.
In summary, by adopting an English Cocker Spaniel, you're welcoming a family member who wants to be an integral part of your daily life. Choosing the right breed for your lifestyle is the first step to ensuring this "Merry Cocker" lives a happy and healthy life.
8. Famous Cocker Spaniels: Real, Cinematic, and Historical Icons
The English Cocker Spaniel is not only an excellent companion dog, but has also left an indelible mark on pop culture, alongside royalty and celebrities.
Royal and Heads of State
The breed has long enjoyed the favor of noblemen and politicians who are fascinated by its cheerful nature and loyalty.
Lupo (the Royal Cocker Spaniel): Perhaps the most famous Cocker Spaniel of recent years was Lupo , the English Cocker Spaniel of the Princess and Prince of Wales, William and Kate . Lupo was famous for his photo appearances with the young princes, demonstrating the dog's full integration into the lives of the royal family. Before him, the family had another Cocker Spaniel, Widgeon .
The British Royal Family: The love of spaniels in general has a long tradition in the royal family. Queen Victoria and later King George VI (father of Queen Elizabeth II) were also great admirers and owners of spaniels.
Richard Nixon: The 37th President of the United States, Richard Nixon , had a famous Cocker Spaniel named Checkers . Although Checkers is an American Cocker Spaniel, he is famous for giving his name to the famous 1952 "Checkers Speech," a speech in which Nixon denied corruption charges.
The stars of cinema and literature
The irresistible charm and expressiveness of the Cocker Spaniel have made it a muse for art and cinema.
Lady: The most iconic film character is undoubtedly Lady from the 1955 Disney classic “Lady and the Tramp .” Although Lady was originally designed according to the American Cocker Spaniel standard (smaller and with a shorter muzzle), her popularity cemented the Cocker Spaniel’s image as a charming and elegant companion in the world’s imagination.
Elizabeth Taylor's Cocker Spaniel: Legendary actress Elizabeth Taylor owned several dogs, including a beloved Cocker Spaniel, proving that the breed's appeal transcends generations of celebrities.
Cocker on duty
Even outside of hunting, the working line of the English Cocker has distinguished itself through its sense of smell and intelligence.
Sniffer dogs: Many English Cocker Spaniels are used as search and detection dogs (searching for drugs, explosives, or even truffles). They utilize their natural and keen sense of smell, making them excellent working dogs in specialized services around the world.
These examples confirm the versatility and appeal of the English Cocker Spaniel: a dog that can be both a devoted royal companion and an icon of the silver screen, always maintaining its cheerful and hardworking nature.
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