The Pitbull Cocker Spaniel mix is also known as the Cockerpit or Pitbull Cocker.
The Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix is one of the newly emerging mixed breed dogs and results from combining the purebred American Pitbull Terrier and the purebred Cocker Spaniel. These adorable pups make great companions and also excel as working dogs. Best suited for owners with a flexible schedule.
As a mixed breed, it is impossible to predict what characteristics a Pitbull Cocker puppy will grow up to have. But we can most certainly tell that this dog will be a medium-sized dog by looking at the parent breeds as a guide.
If you are considering bringing a Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix into your home, this special mix of Pitbull and Cocker Spaniel is pretty much a treat! In this article, we look at this mixed breed in-depth, including lifespan, temperaments, basic requirements and health issues
Where Does Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix Come From?
The Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix emerged some decades ago, probably in the USA, but there is no definite info on the exact origin of the crossbreed. There are a lot of details on the parent breeds, though. Both of the parent breeds are perfect all-around companions but Cocker Spaniel particularly has a hunting background.
History of American Pitbull Terrier Breed
It is worth knowing that “Pitbull” is used to describe a group of dog breeds consisting of American Pitbull Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers and American Bullies. For the sake of convenience, I’ll be referring to American Pitbull Terrier as Pitbull through this article.
American Pitbull Terrier descended from a dog that resembles the modern-day American Bulldog, Olde English Bulldog who secured his place in the hall of fame of an inhumane bloodsport in the British Isles known as bull baiting. These matches became illegal and were succeeded by rat baiting and eventually, dogfighting.
Rat baiting involved filling a pit with plenty of rats to watch the dog that would kill the highest number of rats in a given time. On the other hand, dogfighting was typically placing dogs in a pit to fight against each other.
Consequently, the need for a more aggressive and fast dog erupted, prompting the crossing of these bulldogs with terriers, hence the name Pit Bull Terriers. Notwithstanding, the genetic traits they were bred with are what makes them well-loved and clearly refine their status as protective and human-friendly dogs.
Returning immigrants from the British Isles brought Pitbulls to the United States, where they established a reputation as an all-purpose farm dog. They served as companion dogs, guard dogs, athletic dogs and working dogs.
The United Kennel Club (UKC) recognized these bulldogs as the American Pitbull Terrier in 1898. But it took until 1930 for American Kennel Club (AKC) to accept the breed into its registry and it was done with the name, American Staffordshire Terrier to distance it from its pit-fighting history.
History of Cocker Spaniel Breed
The story behind cocker spaniel can be traced back to the 14th century when the existence of all Spaniel dogs was first documented. At that point, no classification was assigned to the various dogs under this group as they were considered more of a functional category. Not until the early 19th era were they separated into two groups: toys (for companionship) and big hunting dogs.
As the name implies, the Spaniel is believed to be of Spanish origin, but they were well-known for centuries in England before the recognition of Cocker Spaniel as a distinct breed, in 1892, by the Obo Kennel of Mr. James Farrow. The Cocker Spaniel was known for his outstanding performance in field hunting woodcock, hence his name. Cocker dogs were used alongside nets to hunt feathered games, prior to the invention of firearms.
Having gained the attention of American pilgrims, English Cockers were imported to the US in large numbers. The American Spaniel Club, the oldest breed club in American was formed in 1881 by Clinton Wilmerding and James Watson. There was a split among the breeders of this club due to the differences discovered in the Spaniel breed. Sequel to this, the popularity of Cocker Spaniels suddenly sprang up.
Despite the inclination of many breeders towards the smaller-sized American Cocker Spaniel, a group of breeders in England decided to preserve the heritage of the English Cocker Spaniel. In 1946, both were recognized by the AKC as distinct breeds.
Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix Info and Facts
Appearance
The resulting physical traits from crossbreeding a Pitbull and a Cocker Spaniel will differ from litter to litter and within the litter itself.
But certainly, there are various Pitbull Cocker traits you can expect.
Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix will be a strong, sturdy dog. When you take the muscular frame of a Pitbull and combine it with the athletic physique of a Cocker Spaniel, you will get a tough and highly active progeny.
Both Pitbull and Cocker Spaniel have a round, broad head, muscular quarters and laid-back chest. Their well-defined body is solid, athletic, compact, and slopes slightly downwards from the withers to the loin and croup.
However, the most contrasting aspect of the two breeds is their coat appearance. While Pitbulls have smooth and glossy coats, the Cocker’s coat is thick, silky and sometimes wavy. The coat of both breeds come in a variety of colors and color patterns such that everyone can find their taste.
Size and Weight
Taking a close look at the parents’ measurements is the best way to get a better idea or possibly, make an educated guess of the Pitbull Cocker adult size.
The average height of a Pitbull is around 17 to 21 inches whereas the average height of a Cocker Spaniel is around 14 to 17 inches short.
A Pitbull weighs around 30 to 60 pounds whereas a Cocker Spaniel weighs anywhere between 20 and 30 pounds.
A full-grown Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix will be a moderately sized dog that will measure between 15 and 20 inches and weigh around 25 to 45 pounds.
The compact size of this breed makes them great family pets for people who live in apartments or smaller homes.
Lifespan
In general, Pitbull Cockers are however pretty healthy dogs and you will expect them to live longer than their purebred parents.
The Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix will have an average life expectancy of about. This is enough time to bond with their humans.
Keep in mind that averages are just a baseline and don’t guarantee the lifespan of your puppy. It’s your duty to ensure they have well-balanced food, a lot of exercise and regular veterinary checks in order to live as long as possible.
Temperament
No breeder or dog expert can say exactly what a Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix will be or the kind of temperament it will have. It could be either the Pitbull or Cocker Spaniel temperament or a fair mix of both parent’s temperaments. You will have to wait for your puppy to grow up a little to see what it will be like.
Temperament-wise, the Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mixes are sweet-natured, lively and eager to please his family. They’ll welcome your guests with tail-wagging affection. Showering them with loads of love and attention is enough to do their heart good.
Being a canine of a highly adaptable background, he is definitely going to be an all-around dog, excelling as either a working dog, trustworthy companion or show dog.
Pitbull’s friendly nature and Cocker’s aloofness from strangers may come in their way to becoming an excellent guard dog, but they are both highly active and alert, making them a perfect watchdog.
Never allow these dogs to run off-leash except in a well-fenced area since they are very agile and can become overly aggressive towards other dogs or chase small animals.
Ideally, your dog will have the best traits of both parent breeds. They will certainly be kind and intelligent dogs but can become wilful at times if they are like the Pitbull or more agreeable and easy-to-train dogs if they tilt towards the Cocker’s disposition.
Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix Basic Needs
Feeding Requirements
The Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix is a high-energy breed that requires a lot of nutrition to stay healthy and robust. It is advisable that the dog be fed a high-protein dry kibble diet containing at least 25% crude protein.
The Cocker Spaniel’s fur is composed mostly of protein. Hence, a substantial supply of protein is very crucial. Beef, lamb, or salmon are good protein sources. Due to the fact that some dogs are allergic to poultry, it’s recommended to start with alternative protein diets.
Exercise and Training Requirements
Exercise is important for the physical and mental stimulation of your canine. Various factors will determine the amount of exercise your Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix will need. These include their age, overall health and physical ability, and whether he is just a companion, a show or a working dog.
It is imperative to spare yourself some time to exercise your dog every day. You don’t have to stick to casual daily walks. Other interesting exercise routines for your Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix involve activities like agility drills, frisbee catch, mental games, swimming, scent work, or teaching him tricks.
The Pitbull Cocker Spaniel is an intelligent and hardworking dog. They can become willful and rebellious at times. The Pitbull aspect of this dog urges them to assert their supremacy. To overcome a dog’s stubborn streak, you must have a lot of dog-handling experience. In general, the keys to raising an awesome dog that would be loyal to the core are perseverance and readiness.
Avoid training your dog with the use of force. Positive reinforcement is a fun and effective way to train your dog. It will help you get the best qualities out of your dog and build a close bond with your canine.
Lastly, regardless of the level of training your dog has acquired, it’s important to never leave him in lonesome for too long. Be rest assured that they find destructive ways to entertain themselves including chewing, digging or harming themselves.
Cleaning and Grooming Requirements
If you’re looking for a very low-maintenance dog when it comes to grooming, the Pitbull Cocker may not be the right dog for you. However, It’s hard to tell since the Pitbull’s coat is usually smooth and easy to care for. It’s therefore a matter of which traits will be passed on to the resulting mixed breed.
On the other hand, grooming a Cocker Spaniel is labor-intensive since their coat is long and somewhat wavy, and silky. Their long ears require regular cleaning to prevent the risk of infection.
The majority of owners choose to have their dogs’ coats bathed, brushed, and trimmed by a professional groomer every month or two, and fees are high for this time-consuming breed. Brushing the coat on a daily basis at home is also vital to keep it free of knots and matting.
Health Issues Of Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix
Decreased susceptibility of canines to diseases through hybrid vigor is one of the main reasons behind creating many Pitbull crossbreeds, such as the Pitbull Coonhound Mix, Pitbull Lab Mix, Pitbull Corgi Mix or Pitbull German Shepherd Mix.
However, this doesn’t mean that mixed breeds are immune to all diseases and knowing the common health problems of Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix will help you provide the best care and tailor a preventive approach.
The ordeal of having an unhealthy dog is exhausting both emotionally and financially. We all know a canine companion as a source of delight, not pain.
As a dog parent, knowing these health problems will be a plus for your adorable pooch.
Some of the health issues specific to the Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix include:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Kneecap luxation
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- Hypothyroidism
- Ear Infections
- Allergies
- Heart Diseases and Congenital Defects
- Skin Infections
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Epilepsy
Should You Get A Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix?
With many aspects of these two breeds to consider, deciding whether or not your personality and your lifestyle can suit this breed may appear quite challenging especially if you have never owned a dog in your life.
Here are some key points to help you decide whether to get about Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix:
- Apartments, small houses or large houses with backyards will be suited for this breed since it’s a medium-sized dog and can be trained to respond to “Quiet” commands.
- If the Cocker traits of this dog are dominant that means that you’ll need a labor-intensive grooming routine to properly maintain their coat.
- For owners who can devote plenty of time to exercise and train them. The Pitbull side of this dog will require a firm hand with enough patience to harness the wonderful qualities in this breed.
- They can easily come down with separation anxiety when left alone for too long leading to destructive behaviors, even when he is well-trained.
- If you shower him with abundant love and attention, you will be rewarded with a happy and affectionate companion.
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