A bird dog that would both flush and retrieve, the Cocker was English in origin. They were the smallest of the sporting dogs, capable of moving through the brush that some of the larger dogs were not able to get into. They were bred primarily as bird dogs.
Very friendly, although some can be submissive, these dogs are good family pets. The breed did not retain most of the hunting instinct, which makes things easier on the family. They have issues with bladder control early in their lives. For females, this can lead to stress peeing up to 2 years old.