Miniature Cocker Spaniel

The Appeal of Miniature Dogs

The Miniature Cocker Spaniel is not an official breed, so is not recognized or endorsed by the AKC or any other major dog associations. But they have a special appeal all of their own.

It is human nature to want to nurture a puppy. An adult miniature dog breed retains baby-like features, and is why people have a natural tendency to love and protect them.

It’s easy to think of some more advantages to permanently tiny dogs too. They do not require much room, are easy to take anywhere, don’t cost much in food, and have minimal exercise requirements.

But before before committing to a mini Cocker Spaniel it is essential to look at the full-sized version, so you have a better understanding of its physical appearance and behavioral traits.

There are two types – the English Cocker Spaniel and the American Cocker Spaniel.

The Standard Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel was bred to flush woodcock from dense bush and is how it earned its name. This breed is popular now as a companion dog, favored worldwide.

During the late 1800s, the Cocker Spaniel arrived in the USA. By the 1930s there were two separate breeds – the English and American Cocker Spaniels. Although they look similar, they are both different in size, appearance, and personality.

English vs American Cocker Spaniels

The English Cocker Spaniel is the larger of the two breeds standing at 15 to 17 inches high, weighing between 26 to 34 pounds. The American Cocker Spaniel stands at 12 to 13 inches high and weighs between 24 to 28 pounds.

A miniature English Cocker Spaniel and a mini American Cocker Spaniel will both be smaller and weigh less than the two standard breeds.

The English Cocker has a medium length coat that is either flat or slightly wavy whereas the American Cocker’s is longer and more lustrous. Both come in all colors including particolored. The skull of the American is dome-shaped but the English is flatter with both having long, floppy ears.

Cocker Care

Both types are shedders, although the American sheds more, and require regular grooming to remove loose hair, being clipped every 6 to 8 weeks. They require their teeth brushed regularly and their ears cleaned once a week, with their nails trimmed every month.

The English Cocker is still regarded as a sporting breed and loves to chase game. It is more active than the American. The Amercian Cocker Spaniel has lost its hunting instincts but requires vigorous exercise. Long walks and a run in an enclosed area are perfect.

The English Cocker and American Cocker have similar temperaments as affectionate and sweet-natured who love to please. However, both dogs dislike being left alone for extended periods, which can cause destructive behavior.

Lifespan and Health Issues

Both the English and American Cocker Spaniel live on average between 10 and 15 years. They have similar health issues that include

• ear infections
• deafness
• eye and skin problems
• luxating patella
• dilated cardiomyopathy
• and certain types of cancer.

Breeding A Miniature Cocker Spaniel

There are different ways to create a miniature dog, with each method having potential drawbacks.

Therefore, care must be taken when looking for miniature Cocker Spaniel breeders.

Breeding from undersized dogs

Probably the most usual method is by continually breeding from two undersized dogs, usually the runts of a litter, creating puppies that are abnormally small.

As the mother is so small herself, she can often only produce a couple of puppies at one time, and there is the possibility of birth complications.

Mix breeding with a smaller breed

Another way is to mix with a smaller breed, creating a hybrid “designer” dog. This method is risky as there is no guaranteed outcome.

A puppy can inherit more traits from one parent, and the best or worst characteristics from both breeds. It’s also possible that a mixed breed will only be fractionally smaller than a the averageCocker Spaniel.

Dwarfism

Finally, breeders can selectively breed from two sets of parents who carry genes for dwarfism. Achondroplasia is an abnormality of the growth and development of the bone and cartilage causing bone deformities and shorter legs than other dogs of the same breed and age.

Pituitary dwarfism is a problem with the growth hormone which is produced by the pituitary gland. The Cocker Spaniel is predisposed to both causes of dwarfism which can lead to growth abnormalities and severe health issues.

Unethical breeding practices

Some unethical breeders create a miniature dog by purposely not providing the nourishment that puppies require, thus stunting their growth.

Or they mislead potential buyers claiming that a runt is a miniature dog or lie about a puppy’s exact age.

Miniature Cocker Spaniel Controversy

Micro dogs have become extremely marketable commanding high prices, treated as products rather than living creatures with needs.

A mini Cocker Spaniel price can start at around $2000, sometimes even more.

As reputable breeders refuse to breed teacup pups, this has left the door wide open for irresponsible breeders using unacceptable methods in their quest to create smaller and smaller dogs for money.

Animal welfare organizations are now warning people against buying miniature dogs as they are prone to many health issues and genetic defects, often suffering from intolerable pain.

Many of the puppies sold are sick and sometimes die after a few weeks of buying them so it is possible you may not see your miniature Cocker Spaniel full grown.

Health Issues of Miniature Dogs

As a micro dog, mini Cockers are more susceptible to numerous other health issues as well, with a possibility of going blind, and are unlikely to live very long.

Their organs are not adequately developed, with many having breathing problems, digestive issues, and fragile bones.

Hypoglycemia (low blood levels) is extremely common in miniature breeds, especially if they miss just one meal, causing seizures and possible death. It is therefore wise to feed minis several small meals throughout the day.

Other risks include liver shunt which affects the liver’s ability to flush out toxins, water on the brain, and heart defects.

Psychological Issues

A micro dog can also suffer from psychological issues. A miniature Cocker Spaniel does not handle stress well as they have weak hearts and should never be left alone for long.

Their small bladders can often cause incontinence and create learning difficulties. Early socialization is vital for miniature breeds especially when around bigger dogs.

Other Dangers

Owners of a miniature Cocker need to stay vigilant as it is easy to tread on one of these dogs or drop them, making sure they don’t jump from furniture. Small children could accidentally hurt them.

A mini has trouble keeping warm so may need a sweater in the winter. Due to their low body temperature and sugar levels, operating on a miniature dog is extremely difficult and risky.