Cockalier

The Cockalier is a mixed dog breed that originated in the United States. It is a cross between the Cocker Spaniel and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They are known for their friendly and loving nature as well as their ability to adapt well to different living situations.

Cockalier Breed overview

Cockaliers are a lovely mix between the fun and playful Cocker Spaniel with the calm and loving Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They are social creatures that require activity, attention and love to thrive. Their size and easy going personality make them a wonderful choice for practically anyone. Although they are very family-oriented they may struggle if left alone for too long periods.

Height:
12-15 inches
Weight:
10-28 lbs
Life expectancy:
12-15 years

What To Expect When Caring For a Cockalier

Nutrition

Cockaliers are a medium-sized breed and require a well-balanced diet that is appropriate for their size and activity level. It is recommended that they are fed twice a day and that they eat a high-quality dry dog food that is free of fillers, preservatives, and artificial flavors.

As with all dogs, it is important to monitor their weight and adjust their food intake accordingly to prevent obesity and other health issues.

Exercise

Cockaliers are an active breed and require daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. It is recommended that the breed gets at least 30-60 minutes of exercise per day, such as walks, runs, or playtime in a fenced yard.

They also enjoy mental stimulation, so puzzle toys and training activities can be a great way to keep them occupied and engaged.

Training

Cockaliers are generally easy to train and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques such as praise, treats, and playtime. They are intelligent dogs that can learn a variety of commands and tricks, and they enjoy bonding with their owners during training sessions.

However, they may inherit the stubborn streak of their Cocker Spaniel parent, so consistent training and early socialization are important to bring out the best in this breed.

Health

Like all dog breeds, Cockaliers can be prone to certain health issues. Some potential health concerns for the breed include hip dysplasia, ear infections, and allergies.

It is important to keep up with regular veterinary visits and keep the dog's vaccinations up to date to ensure they stay healthy and happy.

Grooming

The Cockalier has a coat that requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best. They should be brushed at least once a week to prevent matting and tangling. They may also require occasional haircuts to keep their coat at a manageable length.

Their ears should be cleaned regularly to prevent ear infections, and their teeth should be brushed daily to prevent dental issues.

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Cockalier Traits & Characteristics

The Cockalier is not recognized by any major kennel club, and therefore doesn't have an official breed standard. However, they are usually bred to have a similar appearance to both parent breeds, with a wavy or curly coat, long ears, and a friendly expression.

Cockaliers tend to have a longer snout than a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and a flatter face than a Cocker Spaniel. They also tend to have a more athletic build than their parent breeds.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

Cockaliers are very affectionate dogs who love to be with their owners. They thrive on love and attention, and they will often seek out cuddles and pets. They are very loyal and will make great companions for families or individuals who enjoy spending time with their furry friends.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Cockaliers are great with children. They are gentle, loving and have an easy going temperament. Cockaliers can tolerate energetic play and their friendly temperament makes them great with all ages. They just love to be included in all the family activities.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Cockaliers are very friendly and sociable dogs, and they tend to get along well with other dogs. They enjoy playing and running around with other dogs, which makes them a great choice for dog parks and social gatherings. Socialization training is still recommended to avoid possible aggression.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Cockaliers are naturally curious and friendly with everyone they meet but tend to be shy with unfamiliar faces. Socialization training is still recommended.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

These dogs are very playful and energetic. They enjoy running, playing fetch, and enjoy challenging their owners with puzzles and interactive toys. Cockaliers require ample exercise to maintain their playful tendencies.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Cockaliers are not known to be a 'watchdog breed'.. They tend to be too friendly to fully fill up that protective and alert-tendency nut their playful and active nature will keep them always keeping an eye for their family.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Cockaliers are omnivores and not as choosy with their diet. Their size makes them quite versatile when it comes to living situation. They are a people-loving breed and will easily adapt to their living situation, just need attention and room to play and run.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Cockaliers are considered moderate shedders. Regular brushing can help reduce shedding and also increase bonding time with the dog. They will need more attention to grooming due to their longer, silky coat.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Cockaliers need to be brushed or combed at least a few times a week, as they have long, silky hair which can easily tangle or mat. They need extra care when it comes to their coat grooming but their easy going nature should make it a pleasant experience for both the owner and the dog.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Cockalier dogs are not known to be droolers, and generally have a dry mouth which can be noticed compared to other breeds which may drool. Their shorter snouts prevent drooling as well.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Cockaliers are a medium-sized breed, and usually weigh between 20 to 30 pounds. It makes them so easy to handle and adaptable in multiple living situations.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

While Cockaliers are an active breed, they still enjoy lounging around with their owners at home or taking a nap. They require daily exercise to help prevent obesity and stay healthy, such as walks or playing fetch. They will adjust to the activity levels of each family they live with.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

It is important for Cockalier dogs to receive daily physical activity and regular exercise to prevent boredom, promote physical health and avoid destructive habits. It is best to include regular play sessions, walks, runs or other agility games to keep them exercised.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Due to their friendly and affable nature Cockaliers are not the ideal breed for jobs or for performance events. Their loving and loyal nature makes them much better suited as a loving companion or family dog.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The Cockalier is a hybrid breed and is not usually bred for traditional hunting. Although Cockaliers have strong noses similar to their Cocker Spaniel parents, they are not initially trained for scent-related sports or games, but they can learn quickly.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Cockaliers are generally healthy and full of energy. Exercise should be a part of a their daily routine whether it's playing indoors or with other dogs in a park as well as regular walks.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Cockaliers have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Regular check-ups and maintaining an adequate diet with exercise will help reduce the risk of common breed-related illnesses or issues. They can be prone to ear infections due to their long ears, since adequate grooming is central to avoiding infection.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

While they are an active breed, Cockaliers can easily gain weight without proper diet management and exercise. Care should be taken to monitor their weight and provide consistent exercise to prevent obesity-related issues. Special attention is required when feeding them to avoid excessive food intake.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Cockaliers are not well-suited for extreme cold weather due to their short coat. It is necessary to provide adequate warmth make them wear special clothes for dogs when the temperature drops.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Cockaliers can be prone to overheating in hot weather, just like most spaniels. Care should be taken when the weather is hot and humid to make sure they remain cool and that outdoor activities, run or walks are planned accordingly.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Cockalier dogs are well-suited for both small apartments and larger homes as long as they get enough exercise. They may have sufficient energy to play inside the house with interactive toys instead of requiring outdoor space.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

While Cockaliers are not inclined to wander, it is still recommended to keep them on a leash or in a fenced area due to their playful and curious tendencies. Fencing is useful to prevent wanderlust behavior which can arise quickly when they see something that catches their interest

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Cockaliers are not a sensitive breed, but they can become anxious when left alone for extended periods of time. Addressing this behavior early on and providing them with always positive experience may decrease anxiety.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Cockaliers are can tolerate being left alone for a reasonable amount of time each day; provided that they are not ignored for extended periods. Properly trained, they will calmly wait for your return and not take frustration out with destructive behaviors.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Cockaliers are not known to be excessive barkers, but they will bark to let their owners know if there is something amiss. Early training can prevent frequent barking so that they don't disturb neighbours.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Cockaliers are bright dogs and will require mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Keeping them exercised and offering them challenging interactive toys, tasks and puzzles can help stimulate their mind.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Best for families and novice owners. Their good nature and easy to train personality makes them the perfect pet for novice owners who want a fun loving dog that is brilliant with children as well.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Cockaliers are eager to please and are quick learners. With proper training, they can learn new tricks and even basic commands in a short amount of time. Consistency and positive reinforcement will work the best for them.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

Cockaliers are very affectionate dogs who love to be with their owners. They thrive on love and attention, and they will often seek out cuddles and pets. They are very loyal and will make great companions for families or individuals who enjoy spending time with their furry friends.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Cockaliers are great with children. They are gentle, loving and have an easy going temperament. Cockaliers can tolerate energetic play and their friendly temperament makes them great with all ages. They just love to be included in all the family activities.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Cockaliers are very friendly and sociable dogs, and they tend to get along well with other dogs. They enjoy playing and running around with other dogs, which makes them a great choice for dog parks and social gatherings. Socialization training is still recommended to avoid possible aggression.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Cockaliers are naturally curious and friendly with everyone they meet but tend to be shy with unfamiliar faces. Socialization training is still recommended.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

These dogs are very playful and energetic. They enjoy running, playing fetch, and enjoy challenging their owners with puzzles and interactive toys. Cockaliers require ample exercise to maintain their playful tendencies.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Cockaliers are not known to be a 'watchdog breed'.. They tend to be too friendly to fully fill up that protective and alert-tendency nut their playful and active nature will keep them always keeping an eye for their family.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Cockaliers are omnivores and not as choosy with their diet. Their size makes them quite versatile when it comes to living situation. They are a people-loving breed and will easily adapt to their living situation, just need attention and room to play and run.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Cockaliers are considered moderate shedders. Regular brushing can help reduce shedding and also increase bonding time with the dog. They will need more attention to grooming due to their longer, silky coat.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Cockaliers need to be brushed or combed at least a few times a week, as they have long, silky hair which can easily tangle or mat. They need extra care when it comes to their coat grooming but their easy going nature should make it a pleasant experience for both the owner and the dog.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Cockalier dogs are not known to be droolers, and generally have a dry mouth which can be noticed compared to other breeds which may drool. Their shorter snouts prevent drooling as well.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Cockaliers are a medium-sized breed, and usually weigh between 20 to 30 pounds. It makes them so easy to handle and adaptable in multiple living situations.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

While Cockaliers are an active breed, they still enjoy lounging around with their owners at home or taking a nap. They require daily exercise to help prevent obesity and stay healthy, such as walks or playing fetch. They will adjust to the activity levels of each family they live with.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

It is important for Cockalier dogs to receive daily physical activity and regular exercise to prevent boredom, promote physical health and avoid destructive habits. It is best to include regular play sessions, walks, runs or other agility games to keep them exercised.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Due to their friendly and affable nature Cockaliers are not the ideal breed for jobs or for performance events. Their loving and loyal nature makes them much better suited as a loving companion or family dog.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

The Cockalier is a hybrid breed and is not usually bred for traditional hunting. Although Cockaliers have strong noses similar to their Cocker Spaniel parents, they are not initially trained for scent-related sports or games, but they can learn quickly.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Cockaliers are generally healthy and full of energy. Exercise should be a part of a their daily routine whether it's playing indoors or with other dogs in a park as well as regular walks.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Cockaliers have an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Regular check-ups and maintaining an adequate diet with exercise will help reduce the risk of common breed-related illnesses or issues. They can be prone to ear infections due to their long ears, since adequate grooming is central to avoiding infection.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

While they are an active breed, Cockaliers can easily gain weight without proper diet management and exercise. Care should be taken to monitor their weight and provide consistent exercise to prevent obesity-related issues. Special attention is required when feeding them to avoid excessive food intake.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Cockaliers are not well-suited for extreme cold weather due to their short coat. It is necessary to provide adequate warmth make them wear special clothes for dogs when the temperature drops.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Cockaliers can be prone to overheating in hot weather, just like most spaniels. Care should be taken when the weather is hot and humid to make sure they remain cool and that outdoor activities, run or walks are planned accordingly.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Cockalier dogs are well-suited for both small apartments and larger homes as long as they get enough exercise. They may have sufficient energy to play inside the house with interactive toys instead of requiring outdoor space.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

While Cockaliers are not inclined to wander, it is still recommended to keep them on a leash or in a fenced area due to their playful and curious tendencies. Fencing is useful to prevent wanderlust behavior which can arise quickly when they see something that catches their interest

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Cockaliers are not a sensitive breed, but they can become anxious when left alone for extended periods of time. Addressing this behavior early on and providing them with always positive experience may decrease anxiety.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Cockaliers are can tolerate being left alone for a reasonable amount of time each day; provided that they are not ignored for extended periods. Properly trained, they will calmly wait for your return and not take frustration out with destructive behaviors.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Cockaliers are not known to be excessive barkers, but they will bark to let their owners know if there is something amiss. Early training can prevent frequent barking so that they don't disturb neighbours.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Cockaliers are bright dogs and will require mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Keeping them exercised and offering them challenging interactive toys, tasks and puzzles can help stimulate their mind.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Best for families and novice owners. Their good nature and easy to train personality makes them the perfect pet for novice owners who want a fun loving dog that is brilliant with children as well.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Cockaliers are eager to please and are quick learners. With proper training, they can learn new tricks and even basic commands in a short amount of time. Consistency and positive reinforcement will work the best for them.

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History of the Cockalier

The Cockalier breed was first developed in the United States, likely sometime in the last few decades. As a mixed breed, it does not have a long or well-documented history like many purebred dogs.

The breed was created by crossing the Cocker Spaniel with the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, two breeds that are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. The goal of the breeding was to create a dog that was both intelligent and easy to train, as well as affectionate and loyal to its owners.

Cockalier Puppies

Cockalier puppies can vary in appearance and temperament, depending on which parent breed they take after most. Puppies that take after the Cocker Spaniel parent may have a slightly more stubborn personality, while those that take after the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel may be more laid back.

The average litter size for a Cockalier is around 4-6 puppies, and they typically weigh around 4-6 ounces at birth. They require plenty of socialization and training to ensure they develop into well-behaved adults.