What to Expect from a Field Bred English Cocker
What were they bred for?
Field Bred English Cockers were bred to hunt birds and other prey. They are meant to flush and retrieve game despite brush and obstacles. It is for this reason that we see the high prey drive, energy levels, and agility that we do in these dogs. It is for this reason we only sell our dogs to people who have the time and space to be with them and can ensure that they will get plenty of exercise.
About our Dogs
Our dogs range from small to medium in size and stature. They have much shorter coats than those of the show bred type. They have feathers on the legs and tail, wavy ears, and beautiful eyes. Please understand that field bred cockers will not necessarily fit breed standard in the areas of coat and size as they were bred to hunt, not for show. These dogs do shed, but only need the occasional bath and brush.
Temperament
These dogs generally have great dispositions. They are loving and affectionate, and revel in any kind of attention they can get. They are also extremely energetic and active. While they love to cuddle and spend time in your lap, or snuggling with you on the bed, they also do not stay still for long periods of time, and need time to run, jump, and chase things. Charlie (South Georgia Camo) is rarely still longer than ten minuets on a day with good weather.
Needs
Mental:
Field bred English Cocker Spaniels are an active, intelligent breed of dog, that love and need human attention. One on one time with their owner is essential if these dogs are to thrive in your home. They love to snuggle just as much as they like to play. They also need constant mental stimulation, through training, or playing games. Rather sensitive in nature, any type of harsh punishment is not the way to teach them, they react best to positive reinforcement training that is clear.
Physical:
All dogs should be fed high quality food throughout their lifetime according to their current life stage. Puppies under a year old should be fed high quality puppy food. After that they should be on a reputable adult dog food, preferably for active dogs. They should be taken to the vet regularly, and their vaccines should be kept up to date. Daily tooth brushing is the best way to prevent plaque and tarter build up. This helps prevent bad breath and tooth decay. In the case of tartar and plaque build up you should take your dog to a veterinary dental hygienist, ask your vet if they recommend someone, or if they will do it. This can be expensive, and just brushing their teeth is a great way to reduce the need.
As far as grooming is concerned, field bred type English Cockers have shorter fur than their show counterparts. They still need to be bathed and brushed on occasion, although clipping is not necessary. Nails do need to be trimmed, and ears cleaned on a regular basis.
English cocker spaniels, especially field type, need exercise. They were bred to be out hunting, all day, this is demanding work, and instinctual to them. High energy dogs who do not get the exercise and mental stimulation they need are much more likely to have behavioral problems.
Field bred English Cocker Spaniels are an active, intelligent breed of dog, that love and need human attention. One on one time with their owner is essential if these dogs are to thrive in your home. They love to snuggle just as much as they like to play. They also need constant mental stimulation, through training, or playing games. Rather sensitive in nature, any type of harsh punishment is not the way to teach them, they react best to positive reinforcement training that is clear.
Physical:
All dogs should be fed high quality food throughout their lifetime according to their current life stage. Puppies under a year old should be fed high quality puppy food. After that they should be on a reputable adult dog food, preferably for active dogs. They should be taken to the vet regularly, and their vaccines should be kept up to date. Daily tooth brushing is the best way to prevent plaque and tarter build up. This helps prevent bad breath and tooth decay. In the case of tartar and plaque build up you should take your dog to a veterinary dental hygienist, ask your vet if they recommend someone, or if they will do it. This can be expensive, and just brushing their teeth is a great way to reduce the need.
As far as grooming is concerned, field bred type English Cockers have shorter fur than their show counterparts. They still need to be bathed and brushed on occasion, although clipping is not necessary. Nails do need to be trimmed, and ears cleaned on a regular basis.
English cocker spaniels, especially field type, need exercise. They were bred to be out hunting, all day, this is demanding work, and instinctual to them. High energy dogs who do not get the exercise and mental stimulation they need are much more likely to have behavioral problems.
Training
If you've ever looked for training tips and methods on the internet, you'll find there are an overwhelming number of ways to train your dogs, and some are better than others. The first thing to look at is weather the method uses physical force, kicking, hitting, or hurting your dog in any way should never be an option. Next you have to keep in mind your dogs temperament, what may work for one dog may not work for another. Use positive reinforcement whenever possible, know what rewards your dog values, and in what order. Do they go crazy over affection and cheese. Which one do they prefer. Patience and consistency are key. These are sensitive, intelligent dogs who want to please you, and will love you unconditionally, understand that and don't abuse it.