The Cockalier is a mixed breed dog — a cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel dog breeds. Friendly, gentle, and intelligent, these pups inherited some of the best traits from both of their parents.
You may find these mixed breed dogs in shelters and breed specific rescues, so remember to always adopt! Don’t shop if you’re looking to add one of these dogs to your home!
The Cockalier is one of the most affectionate and loving mixed dog breeds around. They are loving and loyal and will quickly form lifelong bonds with any humans who show them love and kindness. They are intelligent and usually take well to training, making them an ideal option for first time dog owners.
While Cockaliers are high energy canines, they can also adapt to living in apartments or smaller spaces — as long as enough exercise is provided. If you’ve looking for a loyal and loving dog with a great temperament, definitely consider adopting one of these pups.
Breed Characteristics:
Adaptability
Contrary to popular belief, small size doesn’t necessarily an apartment dog make. Plenty of small dogs are too high-energy and yappy for life in a high-rise. Being quiet, low energy, fairly calm indoors, and polite with the other residents are all good qualities in an apartment dog.
Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They’re also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.
Dogs who are highly sensitive, independent thinking, or assertive may be harder for a first-time dog parent to manage. You’ll get your best match if you take your dog-owning experience into account as you choose your new pooch.
If you’re new to dog parenting, take a look at 101 Dog Tricks and read up on how to train your dog!
Some dogs will let a stern reprimand roll off their backs, while others take even a dirty look to heart. Low-sensitivity dogs, also called “easygoing,” “tolerant,” “resilient,” and even “thick-skinned,” can better handle a noisy, chaotic household, a louder or more assertive owner, and an inconsistent or variable routine. Do you have young kids, throw lots of dinner parties, play in a garage band, or lead a hectic life? Go with a low-sensitivity dog.
Some breeds bond very closely with their family and are more prone to worry or even panic when left alone by their owner. An anxious dog can be very destructive–barking, whining, chewing, and otherwise causing mayhem. These breeds do best when a family member is home during the day or if you can take the dog to work.
Breeds with very short coats and little or no undercoat or body fat, such as Greyhounds, are vulnerable to the cold. Dogs with a low cold tolerance need to live inside in cool climates and should have a jacket or sweater for chilly walks.
Dogs with thick, double coats are more vulnerable to overheating. So are breeds with short noses, like Bulldogs or Pugs, since they can’t pant as well to cool themselves off. If you want a heat-sensitive breed, your dog will need to stay indoors with you on warm or humid days, and you’ll need to be extra cautious about exercising your dog in the heat.
All Around Friendliness
Some breeds are independent and aloof, even if they’ve been raised by the same person since puppyhood; others bond closely to one person and are indifferent to everyone else; and some shower the whole family with affection. Breed isn’t the only factor that goes into affection levels; dogs who were raised inside a home with people around feel more comfortable with humans and bond more easily.
See Dogs Less Affectionate with Family
Being gentle with children, sturdy enough to handle the heavy-handed pets and hugs they can dish out, and having a blasé attitude toward running, screaming children are all traits that make a kid-friendly dog. You may be surprised by who’s on that list: Fierce-looking Boxers are considered good with children, as are American Staffordshire Terriers (which are considered Pit Bulls). Small, delicate, and potentially snappy dogs such as Chihuahuas aren’t always so family-friendly.
**All dogs are individuals. Our ratings are generalizations, and they’re not a guarantee of how any breed or individual dog will behave. Dogs from any breed can be good with children based on their past experiences, training on how to get along with kids, and personality. No matter what the breed or breed type, all dogs have strong jaws, sharp pointy teeth, and may bite in stressful circumstances. Young children and dogs of any breed should always be supervised by an adult and never left alone together, period.
Friendliness toward dogs and friendliness toward humans are two completely different things. Some dogs may attack or try to dominate other dogs, even if they’re love-bugs with people; others would rather play than fight; and some will turn tail and run. Breed isn’t the only factor. Dogs who lived with their littermates and mother until at least six to eight weeks of age and who spent lots of time playing with other dogs during puppyhood, are more likely to have good canine social skills.
Stranger-friendly dogs will greet guests with wagging tails and nuzzles; others are shy, indifferent, or even aggressive. However, no matter what the breed, a dog who was socialized and exposed to lots of different types, ages, sizes, and shapes of people as a puppy will respond better to strangers as an adult. Remember that even friendly dogs should stay on a good, strong leash in public!
Health And Grooming Needs
If you’re going to share your home with a dog, you’ll need to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothes and in your house. However, shedding does vary greatly among the breeds. Some dogs shed year-round, some “blow” seasonally, some do both, and some shed hardly at all. If you’re a neatnik, you’ll need to either pick a low-shedding breed or relax your standards. To help keep your home a little cleaner, you can find a great de-shedding tool.
Drool-prone dogs may drape ropes of slobber on your arm and leave big, wet spots on your clothes when they come over to say hello. If you’ve got a laid-back attitude toward slobber, fine; but if you’re a neatnik, you may want to choose a dog who rates low in the drool department.
Some breeds are brush-and-go dogs; others require regular bathing, clipping, and other grooming just to stay clean and healthy. Consider whether you have the time and patience for a dog who needs a lot of grooming, or the money to pay someone else to do it.
Due to poor breeding practices, some breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems, such as hip dysplasia. This doesn’t mean that every dog of that breed will develop those diseases; it just means that they’re at an increased risk.
If you’re adopting a puppy, it’s a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed you’re interested in. You may also want to ask if your shelter or rescue has information about the physical health of your potential pup’s parents and other relatives.
Some breeds have hearty appetites and tend to put on weight easily. As in humans, being overweight can cause health problems in dogs. If you pick a breed that’s prone to packing on pounds, you’ll need to limit treats, make sure they get enough exercise, and measure out their daily food servings into regular meals rather than leaving food out all the time.
Ask your vet about your dog’s diet and what they recommend for feeding your pooch to keep them at a healthy weight. Weight gain can lead to other health issues or worsen problems like arthritis.
Dogs come in all sizes, from the world’s smallest pooch, the Chihuahua, to the towering Great Dane, how much space a dog takes up is a key factor in deciding if they’re compatible with you and your living space. Large dog breeds might seem overpowering and intimidating, but some of them are incredibly sweet! Take a look and find the right sized dog for you!
Trainability
Easy-to-train dogs are more adept at forming an association between a prompt (such as the word “sit”), an action (sitting), and a consequence (getting a treat) very quickly. Other dogs need more time, patience, and repetition during training.
Many breeds are intelligent but approach training with a “What’s in it for me?” attitude, in which case you’ll need to use rewards and games to teach them to want to comply with your requests.
Dogs who were bred for jobs that require decision making, intelligence, and concentration, such as herding livestock, need to exercise their brains, just as dogs who were bred to run all day need to exercise their bodies. If they don’t get the mental stimulation they need, they’ll make their own work–usually with projects you won’t like, such as digging and chewing. Obedience training and interactive dog toys are good ways to give a dog a brain workout, as are dog sports and careers, such as agility and search and rescue.
Common in most breeds during puppyhood and in Retriever breeds at all ages, mouthiness means a tendency to nip, chew, and play-bite (a soft, fairly painless bite that doesn’t puncture the skin). Mouthy dogs are more likely to use their mouths to hold or “herd” their human family members, and they need training to learn that it’s fine to gnaw on chew toys, but not on people. Mouthy breeds tend to really enjoy a game of fetch, as well as a good chew on a toy that’s been stuffed with kibble and treats.
Dogs who were bred to hunt, such as Terriers, have an inborn desire to chase–and sometimes kill–other animals. Anything whizzing by, such as cats, squirrels, and perhaps even cars, can trigger that instinct. Dogs who like to chase need to be leashed or kept in a fenced area when outdoors, and you’ll need a high, secure fence in your yard. These breeds generally aren’t a good fit for homes with smaller pets that can look like prey, such as cats, hamsters, or small dogs. Breeds that were originally used for bird hunting, on the other hand, generally won’t chase, but you’ll probably have a hard time getting their attention when there are birds flying by.
Some breeds sound off more often than others. When choosing a breed, think about how often the dog vocalizes with barks or howls. If you’re considering a hound, would you find their trademark howls musical or maddening? If you’re considering a watchdog, will a city full of suspicious “strangers” put your pup on permanent alert? Will the local wildlife literally drive your dog wild? Do you live in housing with noise restrictions? Do you have neighbors nearby? Then you may wish to choose a quieter dog.
Some breeds are more free-spirited than others. Nordic dogs such as Siberian Huskies were bred to range long distances, and given the chance, they’ll take off after anything that catches their interest. And many hounds simply must follow their noses–or that bunny that just ran across the path–even if it means leaving you behind.
Physical Needs
High-energy dogs are always ready and waiting for action. Originally bred to perform a canine job of some sort, such as retrieving game for hunters or herding livestock, they have the stamina to put in a full workday. They need a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation, and they’re more likely to spend time jumping, playing, and investigating any new sights and smells.
Low-energy dogs are the canine equivalent of a couch potato, content to doze the day away. When picking a breed, consider your own activity level and lifestyle, and think about whether you’ll find a frisky, energetic dog invigorating or annoying.
A vigorous dog may or may not have high energy, but everything they do, they do with vigor: they strain on the leash (until you train them not to), try to plow through obstacles, and even eats and drinks with great big gulps. These dynamos need lots of training to learn good manners, and may not be the best fit for a home with young kids or someone who’s elderly or frail. A low-vigor dog, on the other hand, has a more subdued approach to life.
Some breeds do fine with a slow evening stroll around the block. Others need daily, vigorous exercise, especially those that were originally bred for physically demanding jobs, like herding or hunting.
Without enough exercise, these breeds may put on weight and vent their pent-up energy in ways you don’t like, such as barking, chewing, and digging. Breeds that need a lot of exercise are good for outdoorsy, active people, or those interested in training their dog to compete in a high-energy dog sport, such as agility.
Some dogs are perpetual puppies — always begging for a game — while others are more serious and sedate. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog.
Vital Stats:
Dog Breed Group:Mixed Breed DogsHeight:12 to 15 inchesWeight:10 to 28 poundsLife Span:12 to 15 years
More About This Breed
Highlights
- Cockaliers are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Cocker Spaniel and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel parents.
- The Cockalier’s coat usually comes in a range of colors that include black, brown, red, and white. The coat is medium in length and usually described as being curly to the touch.
- These cute and adorable pups are naturally friendly and affectionate towards people–and they do excellently around small children.
- The Cockalier is renowned as being a mixed dog breed that’s smart and eager to please, so there usually aren’t any issues with socialization and training.
- The Cockalier requires over an hour of exercise every day. Ideally, these sessions should be on the energetic side.
- While this is an energetic mixed breed, these dogs can adapt to apartment living so long as they get enough exercise.
History
As a newer designer dog breed, it’s hard to find much in the way of detailed information available about the Cockalier’s origin. But looking into the background of the parent breeds gives you a solid snapshot of what you’re dealing with.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was first bred as a companion dog for members of royalty. It’s even rumored that King Charles I and II gave the breed its name! When it comes to the Cocker Spaniel, they were originally bred as hunting gun-dogs and prized for their intelligence.
The Cockalier has become known as a designer dog breed, but many of them unfortunately end up in shelters. So consider contacting your local rescue groups and shelters if you’re thinking about adding the Cockalier to your home.
Size
The Cockalier is a small dog. As is always the case with newer mixed dog breeds, exact size standards might vary.
Most weigh in at ten to 28 pounds and range in height from twelve to 15 inches. Female Cockaliers are sometimes marginally smaller than their male counterparts.
Personality
When people talk about the Cockalier’s personality, it’s almost unanimously agreed that this is a super sweet dog with a great disposition. These cute and adorable pups are naturally friendly and affectionate towards people–and they do excellently around small children.
It’s very rare indeed to ever see a Cockalier display any aggressive tendencies. If you’re new to training a dog, you’re in luck: The Cockalier is renowned as being a mixed dog breed that’s smart and eager to please, so there usually aren’t any issues with socialization and training.
While the Cockalier can be fine living in an apartment situation, remember that this is an active dog who will need regular brisk walks and play sessions. This dog wants to be around people and become a key part of your family, whether that means embarking on long afternoon walks together or snuggling up on the couch to relax.
Health
Cockaliers are generally considered to be healthy dogs, although the breed can be predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Chihuahua face. As always, it’s important to schedule regular wellness visits with your dog’s vet.
Some of the more common health problems Cockaliers suffer from include:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Syringomyelia
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Care
As with all dogs, it’s important to keep up your Cockalier’s regular veterinary checkups to detect any health concerns early. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy.
The Cockalier requires over an hour of exercise every day. Ideally, these sessions should be on the energetic side. This is a dog who loves to run and chase after things, and will happily add swimming sessions to their repertoire. The Cockalier is smart, too, so make sure to add interactive toys to play times.
Consult with your vet about how best to look after your Cockalier’s teeth–they can help recommend appropriate brands of toothpaste and demonstrate correct brushing techniques. Pay attention to the dog’s nails. Regular clipping will keep them in top condition. Also, make sure to check the breed’s ears and eyes regularly, and look out for any signs of dirt build up or infection.
Feeding
An ideal Cockalier diet should be formulated for a small dog with high energy.
Cockaliers need to stick to a heathy diet as overeating can cause weight gain and associated health problems, especially if adequate exercise isn’t offered.
As with all dogs, the Cockalier’s dietary needs will change from puppyhood to adulthood and will continue to change into their senior years. You should ask your veterinarian for recommendations about your Cockalier’s diet, as there is far too much variation among individual dogs–including weight, energy, and health–to make a specific recommendation.
Coat Color And Grooming
The Cockalier’s coat usually comes in a range of colors that include black, brown, red, and white. The coat is medium in length and usually described as being curly to the touch.
Due to the breed’s gentle dispotition, grooming sessions are usually low key affairs. Brush the dog’s coat a couple of times a week, paying attention to any areas that might look like they could turn into mats.
The Cockalier does best in moderate weather. Just remember to pop a dog coat on your Cockalier when it’s colder outside, and always make sure there’s suitable shade and fresh water around during the hotter months of the year.
Children And Other Pets
Cockaliers and kids are an excellent match. The mixed breed is exceptionally affectionate and playful and will love taking part in impromptu play sessions with the kids. Just remember to make sure both parties are socialized correctly during the early days.
In general, Cockaliers are fine around other household pets. But be sure the boundaries between the dog and existing household pets are laid down early.
Ultimately, early socialization really pays off with this breed. Make sure to reward your Cockalier for good behavior and adhere to a proper training regime when you bring them home to your family.
Rescue Groups
It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Cockaliers because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Cocker Spaniel or Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:
- Cavalier Rescue USA
- Oldies But Goodies Cocker Rescue
