Cockalier Breed Details
Below are details and specs for the Cockalier dog breed.
Cockalier Dog Breed
Cockalier Spaniel
The Cockalier is a medium sized hybrid dog which is bred by crossing a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a Cocker Spaniel. As a hybrid the Cockalier will inherit physical and behavioral traits of both the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel dog breeds. However, not all individuals will inherit the same characteristics (even if from the same litter), so it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with both the Cocker Spaniel and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel if you are planning on adopting a Cockalier.
It's probably fair to call the Cockalier, a descendent of two very friendly and outgoing breeds, a people-oriented dog. They thrive in a family environment where there are kids and people around to constantly shower them with affection and play. They are intelligent, will get along with most pets if properly socialized, and their smaller size makes them suitable for most living environments. Maintenance will be fairly straightforward; semi-frequent brushing (depending on the coat) along with a moderate amount of daily activity will keep these dogs in high spirits. Though somewhat hard to find, the Cockalier is a pleasant and affable breed that will be a wonderful addition to any family.
Cockalier Breed Description
The Cockalier is considered a medium sized dog breed, though some individuals are on the smaller side. Adults reach a height of 12 – 15 inches and will weigh 10 – 28 lbs. Their small size makes them quite adaptable; they'll be happy living in nearly any environment, and taking them around town won't be a herculean task.
These dogs are people loving and therefore thrive in a family setting. They get along very well with children and tend to get along with other pets, though as with nearly any dog, best behavior will occur when they are introduced to them at a younger age.
Cockaliers will require a medium amount of maintenance. Their coat will need to be brushed frequently and they do shed a moderate amount. These dogs need a fair share of daily exercise to stay happy and in shape.
Cockalier Breed History
The Cockalier is a fairly new dog breed and because of this the breed does not have a very detailed history. It is likely that the Cockalier was first intentionally bred in the last few decades as the popularity of hybrid dogs increased.
Cockalier Appearance
As a crossbreed, the Cockalier will inherit physical traits from both parent breeds. Not all Cockaliers will inherit the same traits which means some individuals may have more Cocker Spaniel characteristics, others may have more Cavalier King Charles Spaniel characteristics, and some may show a mix of both parent breeds.
This breed can come in two body shapes: some individuals are short and stocky, with a squarish frame similar to that of the Cocker Spaniel. Some Cockaliers, on the other hand, will sport a longer rectangular body shape that makes them look more like the Cavalier.
The coat can also be one of two varieties. Some of these dogs will inherit a Cocker Spaniel-like coat, which is long, thick and wavy. Others will have a coat that is more akin to the Cavalier; theirs will be shorter around the torso, with finer hair. The face has a short muzzle and emotive almond shaped eyes. The ears are large and floppy and feature the characteristic Spaniel fluff. The tail is long and carried low unless the dog is excited.
Cockalier Colors
The images below represent the coat colors and patterns associated with Cockaliers.
Black
Black and White
Brown
Brown and White
Golden
Red
White
Black and Brown
Merle
Spotted
Cockalier Temperament
The temperament of the Cockalier is dependent on the behavioral traits inherited from its parents. Some Cockaliers will inherit traits from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, others the Cocker Spaniel, and some will have a mix of behaviors inherited from both parent breeds.
You can expect a Cockalier to be a friendly and energetic animal. These dogs are very fond of people and love giving and receiving affection. In addition to their kind spirit they also high in intelligence. Training will be rewarding and progress should be swift; the Cockalier aims to please its owner and will enjoy learning new tricks. With the right amount of exercise and attention, these dogs can live anywhere, be it an apartment or a ranch. The important thing is to let these dogs do what they love most—spend time with their family.
Cockalier Maintenance
This breed will require a medium amount of maintenance. The coat will need brushing anywhere from thrice a week to every day. Cockaliers do shed a fair amount, so be prepared to vacuum hairs every so often. Expect to exercise this dog for 30 minutes to an hour each day.
Grooming Requirements
The coat will need to be brushed anywhere from thrice a week to every day. Dogs that feature the longer, wavy coat will be at the higher end of this spectrum, while individuals with the shorter coat will have less of a need for brushing. Attention should be paid to this dog's ears; the fine, wispy hair there can easily become matted or tangled.
Exercise Requirements
Exercising this athletic dog each day is important, but their needs are manageable. 30 minutes to an hour each day of exercise each day will keep the Cockalier healthy and happy. In addition to walking and running, these dogs enjoy catch, swimming, and a variety of other dog activities.
Living Requirements
The Cockalier is an adaptable dog. It will be most at home when it lives somewhere with at least a small yard to play in, but these dogs can live happily in apartments if given the proper amount of mental and physical stimulation. If they are let outside, be sure the area is enclosed. Spaniels are known to chase small animals and may get lost or hurt in the process.
Cockalier Health
The life expectancy for this breed is 12 – 15 years. As a hybrid, the Cockalier has more genetic diversity than its purebred parent breeds which helps with the breed's health and hardiness, however, this breed is prone to ear infections. Prevent this from being an issue by cleaning the ears thoroughly and checking often for signs of issues.
Cockalier Health Concerns
Below are potential health concerns associated with Cockaliers.
Hip dysplasia
Patellar luxation
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Updated:April 25, 2017