Cocker Spaniels are the Best! (The Best Dogs Ever)

By: Elaine Landau
Publisher: Lerner Publications
Publication Date: August 2010
ISBN: 978-0761350569
Reviewed by: Deb Fowler
Review Date: September 2010

If you’re into playful pooches who are not only smart and loyal, but also adorable, you’d be hard pressed to pass up a cocker spaniel puppy if the opportunity to own one came your way. People call these lovable dogs cockers for short. They are a “sturdy, medium-sized dog,” that can be accommodated in homes, large or small, including apartments. This beautiful dog comes in an assortment of colors including “cream, black, red, tan or brown,” but also can be multicolored. They have wonderful dispositions as they are “sweet, cheerful, and active.” They are eager to please and are easily trained. It is said that these people pooches can even “sense their owners’ moods.” Are you convinced that you want one yet?

Historically this breed of dog comes from Spain and is “one of the oldest dog breeds.” The American Kennel Club (AKC) groups them in the sporting group. When you look at the reproduced paintings in this book, you will see a couple of them hard at work hunting, but by the time the 1930s rolled around they were in great demand as pets. You’ll learn a lot about the cocker’s personality and what its needs are. You’ll learn about its gregarious nature, its need for grooming, its activity level, you’ll see a list of supplies to purchase before you get your cocker, what to do when it arrives home, the need for proper veterinarian care, and you’ll learn about many other interesting tidbits, including its life span.

This is a “funtastic” look at a very people oriented dog, the cocker spaniel. Of course children will take one look at this book and remember Lady from the Disney movie, Lady and the Tramp, and will instantly fall in love with the breed. The author very carefully stresses the fact that the cocker has special needs and may or may not be the proper fit for every family. The fact that this dog must be properly groomed or is quite active may deter some potential owners. I loved the well-chosen photographs and found the historical overview to be of particular interest. This is an overview of cockers, but if you do decide to add one to your family it would be a wise idea to purchase a breed specific book.

Quill says: This is one of many in the series, The Best Dogs Ever. Still convinced you would like a cocker spaniel? Perhaps this is one book you might want to consider!