Is a Cocker Spaniel Right for You? | Personality, Affection & Puppy Yoga Vibes
Those big ears, soft eyes and wagging bum - it’s no wonder Cocker Spaniels have been melting hearts for generations. But what’s behind the cuteness?
If you're considering adding a puppy to your life, the Cocker Spaniel might already be on your radar. But like any breed, it’s not just about how they look – it’s about how they connect, behave and fit into your daily life.
At Doga Sydney, our Puppy Yoga classes offer a unique chance to experience Cocker Spaniels in action - playful, gentle and full of personality. Spending time with them in a calm environment is the perfect way to see if they’re your match.
Cocker Spaniel at a Glance
| Trait | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | Small to medium (9–14 kg) |
| Coat | Silky and medium-length |
| Energy | Moderate with bursts of zoomies |
| Affection | High – loves being close |
| Kid-friendly | Yes, with supervision |
| Vibe | Sweet, bouncy, curious |
Their True Nature - What They’re Really Like
Cocker Spaniels are people dogs through and through. They’re affectionate, expressive and love nothing more than being part of your world. They’re not the kind to sit in the corner - they’d much rather follow you around or curl up beside you.
In Puppy Yoga, Cocker Spaniel pups bring a playful yet soulful presence. They might zoom around at the start, sniffing everyone curiously, but quickly settle once they’ve had a cuddle or two. We often notice how intuitive they are - responding gently to quiet moments and lighting up when the room gets playful.
They’re the kind of puppies who wag their tails with their whole body and gaze up at you like you’re the best part of their day. They form bonds quickly and love routines that involve companionship, attention and calm engagement.
Why They Fit (or Don’t Fit) Certain Lifestyles
Cocker Spaniels are wonderfully versatile companions. They’re small enough for apartment living but active enough to keep up with outdoor adventures. They’re well suited to families, singles or couples who want a dog that’s affectionate, curious and emotionally responsive.
They thrive when part of the action, whether it's lounging nearby while you work from home or going on short daily walks. Their moderate energy means they love a bit of play, but they’re also perfectly content snuggling up at your feet after yoga or dinner.
That said, they’re not the most independent breed. Leaving them alone for long hours on a regular basis can lead to stress or restlessness. They’re also sensitive, so they respond best to gentle handling and calm environments.
🟡 Perfect For:
- Families with calm, respectful children
- Singles or couples who work from home
- Apartment dwellers with regular outdoor access
- People looking for a loyal, gentle companion
🔴 May Be Less Ideal If You:
- Are away from home all day
- Prefer a low-maintenance or less emotional breed
- Want a dog that’s completely independent
What to Know Before Committing
Cocker Spaniels are known for their silky coats and expressive ears, and while beautiful, they do need regular brushing to stay tangle-free. Weekly grooming and the occasional trip to a professional are usually enough to keep them looking and feeling their best.
They’re clever and eager to learn but can also be a little sensitive, so training should be consistent and gentle. Harsh tones or chaotic environments can overwhelm them.
Every dog’s temperament is shaped by their early experiences. That’s why our breeder partners work closely with us to ensure puppies are introduced to gentle human touch, calm voices and socialisation right from the start - all of which continues during our Puppy Yoga sessions.
💡 Helpful Hints:
- Brush them weekly to keep their coat smooth
- Give them time and positive reinforcement when learning
- Offer cuddles and close contact - they love it
- Be mindful of overstimulation - they prefer calm confidence over chaos
Meet a Cocker Spaniel at Puppy Yoga 🐾
Still wondering if a Cocker Spaniel is your kind of pup? There’s no better way to find out than spending time with one in person.
At Doga Sydney, you can meet Cocker Spaniel puppies in our weekend Puppy Yoga classes, alongside a rotating mix of other breeds. It’s 45 minutes of gentle yoga followed by 15 minutes of free puppy playtime – the perfect way to experience how this affectionate breed behaves in a relaxed, social environment.
From their curious little sniffing explorations to their soft cuddles mid-pose, you’ll get a real sense of their personality and how they make you feel.
🐶 Book a Puppy Yoga session and discover the calm, cuddly charm of the Cocker Spaniel. It might just be love at first belly rub.