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Sprocker
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Introduction
Although the Sprocker Spaniel is the offspring of the Springer Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel, it is not considered a crossbreed. That’s because its parents are both spaniels. As such, it has the desirable personality and temperament of both breeds. A wonderful family pet, the Sprocker Spaniel is primarily bred as a working dog as it is known to be hardier than its parent breeds. Sociable, intelligent, and athletic, the very energetic Sprocker Spaniel needs much exercise and thus it is not ideal for first-time owners.
History
The Spaniel is widely known to have originated from Spain. The name of the breed came from the word “espaigneul,” which translates to “Spanish dog.” However, the contemporary Spaniels as we know them have been developed in Britain.
The Sprocker Spaniel is a new breed, emerging only 20 years ago. It is the combination of the Springer Spaniel and the Cocker Spaniel, hence, the unique yet familiar-sounding name. Its exact origins are not known, but it is believed that “accidental” interbreeding had occurred decades earlier. Scottish gamekeepers were said to be the ones who first crossed its parent breeds. This was done to create a sturdy canine that can handle larger estates. Apparently, the offspring took on the “better traits” of both its Spaniel parents.
In the years after its emergence, the Sprocker Spaniel has proved to be an excellent working dog. At the same time, it has also earned a reputation for being a dependable companion and fantastic addition to families. Today, this breed is considered as among the popular dogs in the UK and is a valuable helper for hunters.
Appearance and Grooming
The Sprocker Spaniel’s size is generally dependent on it parents’ size. As such, its height can range from 40-51 cm. Its weight ranges from 14-20 kg.
Inheriting its handsome and proud looks from both its parent breeds, the Sprocker Spaniel has an athletic appearance. It has a well-proportioned head and wide-set eyes that look bright and alert. Its ears, like its parents, are long, covered in hair, and droopy. Its muzzle is wide and its nose colour matches that of its coat.
Its body is muscular and strong, with well-developed loins and powerful hindquarters. Its rear legs, which propel it forward powerfully, is well-developed and strong. Its feet are rather broad and well-padded.
The Sprocker Spaniel’s coat comes in a wide array of colours and combinations, just like the ones on Springer or Cocker Spaniels. Most Sprocker Spaniels are black, though some have a bit of white or are chocolate all throughout. Black and white Sprockers are also common. Its hair length and texture also vary, although it is usually smooth. The fur on its head and ears are rather longer than those on other parts of its body.
Being an active breed, this dog needs to be groomed regularly to keep its coat tangle- and debris-free.
Temperament and Intelligence
Like its Spaniel parents and relatives, the Sprocker Spaniel is also affectionate, outgoing, very loyal, active, and alert. As such, it is a fantastic addition to families, especially those who lead an active lifestyle. It is good with children and can live with other pets. However, it is such a high energy dog that it needs much vigorous exercise every day to keep it balanced. This dog does well in agility challenges.
That being said, it is not ideal as a first dog for new owners. It also needs to be in a home with a large garden. Those new to dog ownership may enjoy the companionship of this canine, provided that its need for much exercise is fulfilled. It has a great need to be kept busy as it likes to have something to do. Otherwise, it can get into a variety of mischief.
Further, the Sprocker Spaniel is an intelligent canine and learns quickly. However, it can be a bit stubborn and display selective hearing. Consistency, time, and a firm hand are keys to successful training.
Nutrition and Feeding
You Sprocker Spaniel’s diet should include protein, carbohydrates, fats, fibre, vitamins, and minerals to ensure a complete and balanced nutrition. Protein will aid in building strong bones and lean muscles. Animal protein can be found in good-quality meat and fish such as salmon, turkey, chicken (without the skin or bones), beef, or lamb. Don't forget to trim off any excess fat. Protein can also be found in eggs, vegetables, and cereals.
Fats can help keep his bones and joints strong and supple, and offer protection against arthritis. Essential oils and fats can be found in meat (animal fats) fish (cod liver oil), and vegetables (olive oil and sunflower oil).
Carbohydrates are also needed to give your Sprocker Spaniel endless energy to stay active all day long. Good sources of carbohydrates can be found in fruits, vegetables, and grains. Some of these carbohydrates include rice, barley, or oatmeal. They are also good sources of fibre, which helps with his digestion.
Vegetables provide fibre too, but it's best not to feed him with vegetables that produce lots of gas. You may opt to feed him with beetroot or pumpkin.
As a highly energetic dog, the Sprocker Spaniel needs premium-quality dog food that suits his age, breed, activity levels, and size. This type of dog food has ample amounts of nutritional content specifically designed for him. If you are having a hard time narrowing down the list, consult the vet.
It is best to avoid commercial dog food since it often lacks nutritional content. This may result in vitamin and mineral deficiency on your Sprocker Spaniel. Some commercial dog food brands have dangerous ingredients too, like preservatives and additives. Do not forget to refill your dog’s bowl with fresh water every day to keep him properly hydrated.
Follow a set feeding schedule consistently and provide the same food that your Sprocker Spaniel is used to in order to avoid stomach upset. A sprocker puppy must be fed three to four times a day, whilst an adult sprocker spaniel can be fed twice a day. For a sprocker puppy that is two to six months old, feed him 48-180 g of food daily, depending also on his size and activity level. For one that is seven to ten months old, feed 40–165 g of food daily. When he turns eleven months and beyond, he can be fed with adult dog food.
The adult Sprocker Spaniel weighing 14–18 kg should be fed about 175–280 g of food daily, also taking into consideration his activity level. For a sprocker that weighs 20 kg and above, the daily recommended portion ranges from 230 to 305 g.
Health and Exercise
The average Sprocker Spaniel lifespan is 10 to 14 years. Although a sturdy canine, this breed is known to be affected by the following health conditions:
- Eye problems
- Hepatitis
- Hip dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Hypothyroidism
As a very active dog, the Sprocker Spaniel should be exercised for at least 60-80 minutes every day. The more exercise this pooch gets, the happier it will be, so going beyond the minimum time is a welcome treat.
Cost of Ownership
Buying a well-bred Sprocker Spaniel pedigree puppy could cost you at anything from £250-£500 depending on the breed’s quality. To ensure it stays healthy at whatever age, be ready to spend £40-£50 a month on high-quality dog food. You also need to factor in the initial cost for dog accessories and equipment such as food bowls, leads, collars, and beds, which will likely be about £200 depending on the brand.
When it comes to healthcare, you should be prepared in case your dog suddenly falls ill or gets into an accident. Depending on where you live and your dog’s health and age, a time-limited cover can cost £21 a month while a lifetime one can cost up to £40 a month. Generally, insurance companies do not cover routine veterinary consultations, initial vaccinations, boosters, and neutering or spaying, so you may also have to spend an additional £1000 annually for these services.
Roughly, you will be setting aside £70-£100 a month for recurring expenses, depending on the type of insurance cover you choose. This estimate is also exclusive of walking or grooming services that you might want to use at times.
Sprocker Breed Highlights
- This dog is affectionate, playful, loyal, and intelligent.
- Being good with children and other pets, the Sprocker Spaniel is a fantastic family pet.
- Its high energy level and need for much vigorous exercise might be too much for first-time dog owners to handle.
- The Sprocker Spaniel may show episodes of separation anxiety but can be remedied by proper training.
- This dog does not bark excessively.
- Its grooming is low maintenance but regular brushing is needed to prevent tangles and debris build-up.
Are you sure the Sprocker is the best breed for you? Take the Pet Breed Selector Quiz to find your perfect breed match.
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Disclaimer:
The information, including measurements, prices and other estimates, on this page is provided for general reference purposes only.
The information, including measurements, prices and other estimates, on this page is provided for general reference purposes only.
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