It's thought that originally called ‘cocking spaniels’ cocker spaniels, or ‘cockers’ gained their name from flushing woodcock for hunters - their small size made cocker spaniels ideal for scaring ground-dwelling birds out of the hedgerows.

Today the cocker spaniel has gained a reputation for being easy to train, eager to please and always happy - even gaining the nickname ‘merry cocker’.

Cocker spaniels and cocker spaniel puppies

Despite the nickname every cocker spaniel has its own individual personality, which will be formed as much by its environment and upbringing as its parentage.

Even the ‘merry cocker’ will be unhappy if it’s not given everything it needs to be happy and healthy, for example space and opportunity to play. Make sure you're prepared to meet a puppy's needs - Get puppy smart.

Cocker spaniel puppies for sale

Before you buy one of the cocker spaniel puppies for sale you may have seen advertised think carefully about the commitment you are about to make.

Every puppy requires regular ongoing training and, despite their reputation for being easy to train, every cocker spaniel puppy is unique and will learn at his or her own unique pace.

And like any breed, without regular walks and enough to do, your cocker spaniel puppy could become bored and develop behavioural problems such as destructive behaviour. Don’t buy one of the many cocker spaniel puppies for sale before you Get puppy smart.

Find out how to ensure that the cocker spaniel puppy you choose is not suffering from any inherited diseases and comes from a reputable breeder.