English Cocker Spaniel

Book excerpt: The "original" Cocker Spaniel, the English Cocker Spaniel is actually the most popular Cocker Spaniel on the planet, with a thriving following in most countries around the world. Designated as a separate breed from America's Cocker Spaniel in 1936, thanks in large part to the support of the breed's patroness in the U.S., Geraldine Rockefeller Dodge, the English Cocker Spaniel has been prized for his merry disposition, impressive trainability, and sensible nature for generations. The history of the breed, as told by breeder and author Haja van Wessem, encompasses the story of both Cocker Spaniel breeds and provides insight into how the breeds became separate entities. The characteristics chapter discusses the breed's much-prized personality and physical characteristics as well as its coat of many colors (illustrated by useful charts that depict how colors are produced). New owners will welcome the well-prepared chapter on finding a reputable breeder and selecting a healthy, sound puppy. Chapters on puppy-proofing the home and yard, purchasing the right supplies for the puppy as well as house-training, feeding, exercise, and grooming/trimming are illustrated with photographs of handsome adults and puppies. In all, there are over 135 full-color photographs in this useful and reliable volume. The author's advice on obedience training will help the reader better mold and train into the most well-mannered dog in the neighborhood. The extensive and lavishly illustrated chapter on healthcare provides up-to-date detailed information on selecting a qualified veterinarian, vaccinations, preventing and dealing with parasites, infectious diseases, and more. Sidebars throughout the text offer helpful hints, covering topics as diverse as historical dogs, breeders, or kennels, toxic plants, first aid, crate training, carsickness, fussy eaters, and parasite control. Fully indexed.