Category / Choosing a puppy

How and where to find cocker spaniel puppy / how to make your pet famous on instagram
by Natalia

Puppies & Instagram

I recently saw a report saying that most people spend more time deciding which pair of shoes to buy than getting a puppy. And, of course, I couldn’t help noticing how seeing pups on Instagram prompted people to run and get one there and then.

So if you are thinking about getting a dog, remember that love isn’t enough. You are going to be responsible for somebody who will be spending their whole life with you & rely on you in everything.

Research, learn, take your time & be realistic when you make a decision to have a dog. Never rush into it. Because once you have a dog, your life will change & you will have to be ready to accept it and become the most dedicated, caring and loving parent for your new baby.

Photo source: image by Thomas Ulrich from Pixabay

Cooper, my red sable English cocker spaniel (C) Natalia Ashton, Perfect cocker spaniel
by Natalia

Q&A | What is a sable colour in English cocker spaniels?

To be honest, I’ve never chosen a puppy based on his colour. It has always been more about the face, personality & little features that made my heart beat faster.

I really don’t care if the sable dogs are “rare” or not allowed in a show ring. Personally I find them beautiful just like I find any cocker spaniel beautiful.

Sables vary in colour a lot. They can be black, chocolate, golden or silver-looking. Often the sable pups are very similar to “approved” colours and the coat changes happen gradually and after the pup is handstripped.

So if you are looking for a sable puppy specifically and not quite sure whether or not your future baby is sable, look at both his fur and eyes. The sables will always have dark hairs (black, chocolate or red depending on their coat) running through their coat. Many may also have a mask around their eyes and running down their nose.

And all sables will have what I call “the Cleopatra eyes” – a solid liner around their eyes.

One thing to bear in mind. Sable cockers can become rather fluffy by the time they are ready to be hand-strip, so their coat will need more time, efforts and attention, both on a daily basis and when groomed. Always have a look at your puppy’s parents – if one of them is not too fluffy, your baby may just grow into the smooth and beautiful cocker, too. If both parents have rich coats, you’ve just signed yourself for plenty of grooming fun.

Photo source: Cooper, photo taken by me

Cooper, my sable English cocker spaniel puppy (C) Natalia Ashton, Perfect cocker spaniel
by Natalia

Q&A | What is the difference between working and show cocker spaniel?

I’m often asked about the difference between show and working type cocker pups, so here’s how I explain it to the first time puppy parents.

The show type cockers have a richer coat, more feathering (long layers of fur) on their legs and body. Their faces are more Teddy bear like and both pups and grown ups are chunkier somewhat.

The working type is slender, with much less feathering, shorter and higher set ears. Their face reminds me of a fox – it’s slimmer than the show type and the muzzle is more “pointy”.

Energy-wise, workers tend to be more energetic, but it will depend on your pups personality. I have known very mellow workers and pretty unstoppable show dogs.

Photo source: Cooper, photo by me