Cocker Spaniels are a very popular breed that tend to get along with children and other dogs. Due to their size and temperament, Cocker Spaniels are excellent for apartment living and are a great addition to any family.
If you get your Cocker Spaniel as a puppy, start socialization early. Cocker Spaniels, like any breed of dog, need to be exposed to many different people, places, sounds, and other dogs as puppies. The more your Cocker Spaniel socializes, the more stable they will be as adults.
Crate training is very important for Cocker Spaniels. The big behavioral issue facing many Cocker Spaniel owners is house training. Using a box can be a great help with any home training problem.
Behavior management is very important. Keep a close eye on your puppy until he is fully house trained. A fenced yard is also a very good idea to keep your dog in the yard.
Cocker Spaniels need to be brushed regularly. Get your Cocker used to preening early. Make it a fun experience by brushing and styling in short sessions that end with a toy or treat.
Train early using positive reinforcement. Cocker Spaniels can be very sensitive dogs and do not respond well to harsh training. Some good commandments to teach are: sit, stand, bend over, stay still, heel and come.
Cocker Spaniels belong to the sporting group and require regular exercise. It is good to exercise your Cocker Spaniel physically and mentally. Swimming, hiking, walking, and recovery are great physical activities for your Cocker Spaniel. Obedience and tricks are great mental assets. Buster Cubes and Kong toys are also good toys that give your Cocker a mental workout.