Bringing a Working English Cocker Spaniel into your life is an exciting prospect, and understanding the nuances of this energetic breed is crucial for a successful partnership. Initially encountered by the author at a UK agility camp in September 2012, the Working Cocker’s impressive speed and agile working style immediately captivated their attention, standing in contrast to the AKC-registered Welsh Springer Spaniels previously handled in agility competitions. This initial encounter sparked a three-year journey of dedicated research, travel to the UK, and conversations with breeders and handlers, culminating in the acquisition of their own Working Cocker in 2015 and a deeper dive into the breed’s characteristics and care. If you’re contemplating adding one of these dynamic dogs to your family, this guide offers essential insights gathered from firsthand experience and extensive knowledge of the breed.
Understanding the Working Cocker Spaniel’s Drive and Temperament
Working Cockers are fundamentally working dogs, and their behavior can differ significantly from show lines or even field-bred dogs of other breeds. While the author’s Welsh Springers exhibited human-oriented displacement behaviors or a tendency to slow down and sniff when stressed, Working Cockers often display a more intense reaction. A common displacement behavior involves the dog “kicking it into high gear with their nose to the ground and racing away from the handler,” or exhibiting a similar nose-to-the-ground, slow-down/stop behavior. This tendency appears to peak during adolescence, typically around 10 months of age, though it can be managed and overcome with consistent training and a supportive approach.
It’s important to recognize that Working Cockers can be “pressure sensitive.” If you tend to apply a lot of pressure when training or become easily frustrated by a dog’s stress-induced disengagement, this breed may not be the best fit for you. Patience and understanding are key to working through these adolescent challenges, as demonstrated by the author’s experience with their dog, Jenga, who, after 17 months, reached a point where these behaviors could be effectively managed or avoided.
Similarities and Differences: Working Cocker Spaniels vs. Border Collies
The Working Cocker Spaniel is often compared to the Border Collie, and while there are similarities, crucial distinctions exist.
- Speed and Agility Aptitude: Like Border Collies, Working Cockers can be exceptionally fast and possess a strong aptitude for agility, often becoming “agility fanatics.” However, this is not a guarantee, as some Working Cockers are slower and some may not take to agility training.
- Breed Diversity: Both breeds exhibit significant variation. Understanding lineage is vital for Working Cockers, as they range in size from 13.5 inches to over 16.5 inches. Historically, Cockers and English Springer Spaniels were one breed, later diverging by size and then by focus (show vs. working). Some lineages may even incorporate Springer traits. Their physical proportions also vary, from rectangular to square, with differences in angulation affecting their running style. Some are slight, while others appear more robust. Coat types can be sleek or curly, though generally less profuse than show lines.
- Working Dog Needs: Both are working dogs that require both physical exercise and mental stimulation. While they may have an “off-switch” at home, many will still engage in behaviors like pacing or carrying items. Leash walks alone are often insufficient; these dogs need more comprehensive exercise and training regimens.
- Biddability: Many handlers who have experience with both breeds find Border Collies to be more biddable (easier to train and direct) than Working Cockers. Those transitioning from Border Collies to Working Cockers may find them frustrating, while those moving from Working Cockers to Border Collies often find the latter a delight. Despite these differences, owners of both breeds typically express deep affection for their dogs.
Navigating Breed Variations and Breeder Considerations
The wide variety within the Working Cocker Spaniel breed extends to physical characteristics, with no guarantee on height. While females are typically smaller than males, a pairing of two smaller parents does not ensure a small offspring. Responsible breeders will not guarantee a specific size, acknowledging the inherent variability. Most Working Cockers fall into the medium height category, with some even approaching the “large” or “standard” classification.
The majority of Working Cockers are bred in the UK, where breeder types vary significantly. These include:
- Gundog Kennels: Often dock tails and may be hesitant to sell to non-hunting homes.
- Diligent Individual Breeders: These individuals carefully breed one or two litters with thorough lineage considerations and comprehensive health testing. Finding such breeders requires effort but is highly rewarding.
- Backyard Breeders: Breed without adequate care, diligence, health tests, or consideration for the coefficient of inbreeding (COI).
- Puppy Mills/Puppy Farms: Characterized by unethical practices such as breeding bitches too frequently, lacking health tests, using very young sires, and disregarding COI. Red flags include overcharging, pricing based on color, and aggressive sales tactics.
While some gundog kennels exist in the USA and Canada, and a few across Europe, it is essential to thoroughly vet any breeder. Look for transparency regarding health testing, docking practices, COI, screening, puppy contracts, and rearing approaches.
Health, Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI), and Responsible Breeding
The coefficient of inbreeding (COI) for Working Cockers can be a concern, ideally aiming for 9% or lower. While the average COI has decreased from historic highs to around 10%, some litters have exhibited COI as high as 22%, akin to a father-to-daughter breeding. Reputable breeders now have access to sufficient strong lines in the UK to avoid high COIs, and potential owners should be aware of the increased risk of genetic problems associated with higher COIs.
When researching health issues, consult specialized websites like the Working Cocker Health Screen Directory and verify health tests directly on the Kennel Club registry, rather than relying on generic breeder sites. The My KC website offers a wealth of information. The author notes personal negative experiences with a breeder in 2015, including significant price increases after a deposit and restrictions on viewing pups, highlighting the importance of written agreements and transparency. A database compiled from Kennel Club registry data reveals instances of prolific and inappropriate breeding tactics, such as using sires and dams before they are 24 months old, when some health testing is still possible.
Financial and Logistical Considerations
Working Cocker Spaniels are not inexpensive. In 2017, prices typically ranged from £400 to £750, with anything over £1,000 being excessive. Pricing should never be based on color, especially for “rare” colors which can sometimes be linked to health issues due to double-recessive traits. Registered dogs should not incur additional charges for their papers.
Beyond the purchase price, shipping costs can be substantial. Transporting a dog from the UK to North America can cost approximately £1,000. This includes travel expenses if you pick up the dog yourself. Puppies can legally be shipped into Canada at 8 weeks old, but most airlines have age restrictions of 10-12 weeks. After three months, additional vaccines are required for entry. Any breeder applying pressure tactics to conceal a dog’s age or shipment date is asking the buyer to break the law. Reputable breeders are open and transparent about their practices.
Disclaimer: This article provides information based on the original post and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian for any health or care-related concerns for your pet.
