Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels have been a favourite family dog for generations, and it's easy to see why once you've met one. Here's what actually sets them apart:

• Famously affectionate. Cocker Spaniels are known for their "merry" temperament — friendly, gentle, and genuinely devoted to their family. They're patient with children and happiest when they're near their people.
• Eager to please and easy to train. Bred originally as gundogs, Cockers are bright, food-motivated, and quick to pick up commands, which makes them a good fit for owners who want to put a bit of training in.
• Playful without being demanding. They have plenty of energy for walks and games, but they're also happy to settle down and relax at home once they've had their exercise, which suits most family routines.
• A good all-rounder size. Not too big, not too small, a Cocker Spaniel is a manageable medium dog that fits comfortably into most homes, whether you've got a yard or not.
  

There are plenty of breeders around, but picking the right one can be tricky. Some breeders interbreed their dogs to the point where the puppies are no longer healthy. Here are some questions to ask a Cocker Spaniel breeder before you buy a puppy:

• Do they health-test the parents? Cocker Spaniels can inherit conditions such as eye problems and hip issues, so a responsible breeder screens the parent dogs before breeding them.
• Do they vaccinate the puppies? Many breeders will vaccinate their puppies before they sell them to you. We will give the puppy's vaccination card to you.
• How long have they been breeding? When you buy a puppy, you want one from an experienced breeder. Ask how long they've been in business, as this gives you an idea of how well they know dogs.
• Do they socialise the puppies? Your puppy's temperament depends a lot on how well they're socialised from a young age. We raise our puppies according to the Victorian Code of Practice, and they run regular audits on our facilities and welfare.