Ten Best Dogs For Families

From The Reader's Digest Illustrated Book of Dogs

The English Cocker Spaniel is a tireless, enthusiastic hunter. Its small size allows it easy access everywhere so it can methodically explore terrain and discover game where other dogs cannot. Unmatched in hunting woodcock or pheasant, the Cocker can also flush out partridge and will wade fearlessly into a marsh to pick up a duck or goose. It is an excellent and willing retriever.

The Cocker has also become a popular companion dog, admired for its size, elegance, soft coat, and beautiful head framed by long, dangling ears. It is gentle, playful, even impish at times. Naturally fastidious, it spends long periods cleaning its coat, somewhat like a cat.

Curious about the world around it, submissive but not slavish, this dog takes an active interest in its owner's life and is a devoted pet. Rudyard Kipling once called his English Cocker his greatest fan, pleased and amused that it loved him without ever having read a word he had written.

Despite the Van Dyke painting from 1630 which shows the children of Charles I of England with two spaniels that resemble the modern English Cocker, this dog cannot tolerate the awkwardness and teasing of young children.

The English Cocker is independent and intelligent, and has a strong personality. It must, therefore, be raised with a degree of firmness.

Practical information: The Cocker Spaniel is susceptible to ear infections. Clean excess wax from the inside of the auditory canal regularly. If the dog is in pain, or if there are traces of congealed blood in the ears, consult a veterinarian. The Cocker gains weight easily. Feed it moderately, depending on the exercise it gets. An average diet consists of 650 to 800 grams (23 to 28 ounces) of meat and vegetables or grains. Cheese and peeled, fresh fruit can replace some of the meat. If the Cocker does not get enough exercise it may become nervous or even aggressive. It must be taken for long, daily walks as well as weekly runs in the country.

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