Sprocker Spaniel – The Adorable Mix of Two Favorites!

Whether you’re just about to adopt one of these amazing dogs or you’re simply curious about the temperament, appearance, and exercise needs of a Sprocker Spaniel, you’re in the right place. 

This charming, funny, and loyal mixed breed is a relatively new breed in the canine world. But its parents, the English Springer Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel are firm family favorites. They’re active and curious dogs that need to be part of a busy family who will take them for long walks and plenty of fresh air. 

They’re well-mannered and highly intelligent making them popular sporting dogs too. Not sure if this dog breed is for you? Read on to find out!

Sprocker Spaniel Parent Breeds

It’s thought that all Spaniels were first bred in Spain (mainly because of the similarities in the name) and are old hunting dogs. They were originally only identified as land and water Spaniels and it was even possible for Cocker and Springer Spaniels to be born in the same litter!

It was after years of selective breeding that Spaniels were eventually divided into English Cocker Spaniels, English Springer Spaniels, and Field Spaniels.

You can find out more about the differences and similarities between Cocker Spaniels and Springer Spaniels here.

Springer Spaniel

Since the 17th Century, Springer Spaniels have been popular gun dogs thanks to their loyalty, energy levels, and love of working. After the invention of the hunting rifle, hunters used their boisterous personalities to ‘spring’ on prey and flush them out from long grass and bushes. Hence the name.

These dogs are very loveable, caring, intelligent, and sociable. They are muscular and one of the best hunting breeds you could go for. But don’t worry if you’re not a hunter – Springer Spaniels also make great family pets. They need lots of time outdoors, exploring woods, or playing with their canine friends.

Cocker Spaniels

Cocker Spaniels are a popular dog breed in America and all over the world. Known for their adorable, long curly ears; big, endearing eyes; and various coat colors, they also have wonderful personalities. We love these red dogs thanks to our Salsa!

Cocker Spaniels were also bred to be hunting pups but over the years have adapted more to the companion lifestyle. These pups are elegant and certainly one of the most beautiful dog breeds but they’re also very fast and agile. Under all those beautiful curls, there’s a sturdy and strong body that needs lots of mental and physical stimulation. 

They love being with family and get on well with children too. They’re sociable little Spaniels that love being part of a puppy pack.

Sprocker Spaniel History

As with many mixed breeds, it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact moment that Sprocker Spaniels were first bred. Seeing as both parent breeds were considered the same until the turn of the 20th century, it’s actually very likely that Sprocker Spaniels (in one form or another) have been around for a long time. 

However, Sprocker Spaniels as we know them today have been around for about 20 years. Many think that they originated in Scotland, where Scottish gamekeepers wanted a breed with traits of both Spaniel dogs. They’ve grown massively in popularity and are demanded by those who want a beautiful companion and an active outdoorsy dog too.

The Appearance of a Sprocker Spaniel

You’d be forgiven (at least by us) for mixing up the Springer Spaniel and the American Cocker Spaniel. They’re quite similar. 

Unlike many mixed breeds, the Sprocker Spaniel tends to have a fairly regular appearance because both parent breeds are so similar. Having said that, your Sprocker Spaniel puppy may look quite different from its brothers and sisters. 

Sprocker Spaniels are beautiful. There’s no denying that. They tend to have the wavy coat common in both parent breeds; those adorable, floppy Spaniel ears; and curious, wideset eyes. 

They have athletic bodies, medium-length tails that are often plumed, and wide muzzles. 

When it comes to coat color and texture, there can be some variety. These dogs usually have smooth coats with longer, wavey hair on their chests, tails, legs, and ears. 

Coat colors are usually the ones seen in both parent breeds, including:

• All shades of roan
• Black and white
• Liver and white
• Chocolate
• Tri colored
• Numerous solid colors

They can either have black or brown noses depending on their coat color. They can also have blue, hazel, and brown eyes.

Sprocker Spaniel Temperament

This mixed breed is a great choice for families wanting a caring, affectionate, and sweet breed. Sprocker Spaniels are charming and have a naturally outgoing personality. They get on well with other dogs and love having a kid to play with. Sprocker Spaniels are devoted to their families and are exceptionally loyal. They’re not necessarily protective, but they are very eager to please.

Are Sprocker Spaniels Easy to Train?

Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Springer Spaniel are very clever dogs – so it’s only natural their hybrid breed is too! Because of their intelligence, willingness to learn, and pleasing nature, Sprocker Spaniels are usually easy to train.

They benefit from lots of positive reinforcement as well as plenty of mental stimuli to keep them entertained. These sporty dogs will like taking part in canine classes such as agility and any sporting dog training sessions too. A great way to effectively train these pups is through fun sports (such as flyball or frisbee).

Whilst their intelligence makes them easier to train, it also makes them a little mischievous. Sprocker Spaniel puppies need experienced dog owners who won’t fall for their adorable puppy dog eyes!

How Much Exercise Does a Sprocker Spaniel Need?

The answer is a lot. The Sprocker Spaniel is a high-energy mixed dog breed and not a very adaptable one. They were born to be outdoors and use their incredible noses to explore the world around them. 

They’re a good match for active families that like to go hiking on the weekends or who need a running partner (although they’ll need extra training for that). These dogs also love to swim, so expect some messy and wet playtimes if you adopt a Sprocker Spaniel! You. might want to even think about getting them a waterproof dog collar.

But it’s not just their wonderful, athletic bodies that need to be exercised. Their minds do too. These pooches are very intelligent and get bored easily. They’ll love interactive dog toys as well as training sessions, classes, and lots of time playing with their family. They’ll love learning new tricks and being rewarded for all their effort!

Do You Need to Socialize a Spocker Spaniel?

Yes, all dogs need to be socialized from an early age. Once your Sprocker Spaniel puppy is settled in your home, slowly introduce them to new people, smells, sounds, and sights. Dogs that haven’t been socialized can become very anxious and even aggressive.

Do Spocker Spaniels Chew?

It’s normal for puppies to go through a stage of chewing. They use their mouths to explore their new world and learn all about it. Of course, this often comes at the expense of your furniture.

If you have a big chewer, consider getting them an indestructible dog toy. They’re built for rougher play sessions and will provide your pup with lots of fun and mental stimulation.

Sprocker Spaniel Health Conditions

These doggos come from two fairly healthy and strong dog breeds. They can, however, suffer from a few health conditions common in the parent breeds. These can be:

• Hypothyroidism
• Eye Problems (such as Glaucoma)
• Hip Dysplasia
• Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Taking your pooch for regular checkups at the vet is important for catching anything early on. You should also make sure they’re getting enough exercise and have a well-balanced and nutritious dog good. One of the best fresh dog foods available, such as Just Food for Dogs or Ollie, might be an option for those wanting portion control and yummy food full of nutrients!

Grooming a Sprocker Spaniel

Sprocker Spaniels love swimming and that, combined with their beautiful wavy fur, can mean washing them is more frequent than with other breeds.

We recommend getting them a dry shampoo for dogs. These can help to reduce doggy odors in between washes or trips to the groomer.

They’ll also need daily brushing and a more thorough brushing once a week (bother the Springer Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel shed moderately). To get your Sprocker Spaniel puppy used to this, start from the moment you adopt them. You also need to check their beautiful ears. As is the case for the English Cocker Spaniel, Sprockers can be prone to ear infections. You should also make sure their ears are clean and dry after a swimming session.

Sprocker Spaniels are active dogs, so they should naturally wear down their nails. However, if they don’t, they’ll need to be clipped so they don’t get infected. Ask your local groomer if you’re not sure about doing this.

Are Sprocker Spaniels Suitable for First-Time Owners?

Other breeds are more suitable for those that have never owned a pup before. Sprocker Spaniels are very energetic and need lots of attention and input from their owners. If you have mobility issues or work a lot, a Sprocker definitely isn’t for you.

They’re also seriously intelligent and can be a little mischievous with their intelligence. 

So, Is A Sprocker Spaniel The Right Breed for You?

Sprocker Spaniels are loyal dogs that love being outside and having fun with their families. They’re very active and have bundles of energy so lots of exercise, time playing, and puzzle toys are a must. 

These dogs are also very caring, loving, and sociable and like being around children and other dogs. They tend to look like a good mix of both parent breeds and can come in lots of different colors. Those beautiful waves do require daily brushing though!

Would you think about adopting a Sprocker Spaniel? We’d love to know if you have experience with this breed!

Looking for a different Cocker Spaniel mix? Check out the beautiful Cocker Spaniel and Poodle mix!