The title of 'Britain's favourite dog' is a difficult one to award, but few dog lovers could argue that there is something special about the cocker spaniel.
This affectionate, energetic and characterful dog has won Best in Show at Crufts (the largest dog show in the world) the most times out of any breed. And in 2024 it was the second-most registered dog in Britain – more than 23,000 of us gave a cocker spaniel a new home.
So, why do we hold the cocker spaniel is such high regard? We spoke to The Kennel Club to find out more about the breed's centuries-long history, its success at Crufts and its infectious good nature.
What are cocker spaniels like?
Cocker spaniels are known to be happy, affectionate and versatile dogs. They are full of life, they are loyal and determined, and they have a lot of energy.
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How did the cocker spaniel get its name?
The cocker spaniel gets its name from its original purpose as a bird-hunting dog, specifically for hunting woodcock. 'Cocker' refers to the bird, while 'spaniel' denotes the breed’s Spanish origins. The breed was later developed in the UK.
History of the cocker spaniel
Spaniels are thought to have been around for at least 700 years – and cocker spaniels are descended from those that were bred to work and hunt on land.
Although some continue to work as gundogs today, they are also very popular family dogs and can make great service and therapy pets due to their intelligence and good nature, including work as hearing or sniffer dogs.
How much exercise do cocker spaniels need?
Cocker spaniels are suitable for a variety of owners, due to their versatility and happy nature. They make great family pets and would do best with fairly active owners that can give them at least an hour of exercise a day so they can explore their surroundings, expend some energy and have a good sniff around.
They would be happy in most sized homes as long as they have enough mental stimulation and physical exercise, so access to a small/medium garden is a must, while their coat requires daily grooming.
What colours are cocker spaniels?
Cocker spaniels come in a variety of colours. Mixes include (deep breath):
- Black
- Black & Tan
- Black & White
- Black & White Ticked
- Black White & Tan
- Blue Roan
- Blue Roan & Tan
- Chocolate
- Chocolate & Tan
- Chocolate & White
- Chocolate Roan
- Chocolate Roan & Tan
- Chocolate White & Tan
- Golden
- Lemon & White
- Lemon Roan
- Liver
- Liver & White
- Liver & White Ticked
- Liver Roan
- Liver Roan & Tan
- Liver White & Tan
- Orange & White
- Orange & White Ticked
- Orange Roan
- Red
Cocker spaniels and the Royal Family
The English cocker spaniel has long been favoured by the British Royal Family. Queen Elizabeth II, in particular, had a deep affection for the breed, owning several throughout her life.
Fun fact about cocker spaniels
The cocker spaniel has had considerable success at Crufts, currently reigning as the most-awarded breed in Best in Show with seven wins to its name. These were predominantly during the 1930s and 1940s.
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To find out more about all 223 different dog breeds and discover which could be your perfect match, check out The Kennel Club's A to Z of breeds.
Words: Laura Lloyd, The Kennel Club | Main image: Cocker spaniel/Getty