Instructions
Assess your home situation. Cocker Spaniels are active dogs, so they require daily exercise. They are ideal for homes with yards. If you live in an apartment, you will need to walk your Cocker Spaniel at least three times a day.
Search for Cocker Spaniel breeders in your area. Generally, dog breeders dedicate themselves to one particular breed. As the Cocker Spaniel is such a popular breed, you'll undoubtedly find a bevy of options. View photos of the breeder's latest litter online, or ask him to send you photos. You can then travel to view the pups in person and choose the right one for you.
Consider adopting a puppy from a rescue foundation, such as 1-800-Save-A-Pet or Cocker Spaniel Adoption Center, Inc. Such organizations are dedicated to placing Cocker Spaniels in loving homes. When you adopt a puppy from a rescue foundation, expect to pay an adoption fee of a couple hundred dollars. The puppies up for adoption have usually been screened by a vet to ensure they are free from any health issues.
Visit pet stores in your area. Contact the store beforehand to confirm that they carry dogs and specifically Cocker Spaniels. Most pet stores' inventories vary regularly as pups are adopted, so check back often.
Take a trip to your local humane society and view their available puppies. It's not uncommon to find Cocker Spaniel puppies available for adoption. Since puppies are usually the first to be adopted from shelters, you should call regularly to see if new puppies have come in. If you are somewhat flexible on the purebred quality, you'll be more likely to find a Cocker Spaniel mix available.
Play with the available puppies before deciding on the one that you'll adopt. It's hard to tell much about a puppy from photos. You may find that a different one appeals to you in person than in photos.
Observe how the puppy interacts with other people, as well as other dogs. If a puppy is particularly lethargic, it may be a sign of sickness. While all puppies are generally playful and energetic, some may be shy initially. Allow the puppy time to get used to you before making a judgment call on his personality.
Confirm that the puppy has all her required vaccinations. She should be vaccinated against rabies, worms and other common parasites. Ask the seller to give you records of the vaccinations.
Purchase needed supplies before taking your new Cocker Spaniel puppy home. These include a dog brush, collar, leash, food, treats (to help with the training process) and water and food dishes. A dog crate is also recommended, as you can use crate training to speed up the housebreaking process.
How to Adopt a Cocker Spaniel Puppy
The Cocker Spaniel is perhaps the most popular breed of dog in the United States. They make wonderful house pets, thanks to their innate intelligence and attractive personalities. Cocker Spaniels' coats can vary greatly from dog to dog; however, they are most commonly a combination of either black and white or light cream and white. They are known as medium-sized dogs, and weigh about 25 lbs. when they are fully grown. Cocker Spaniel puppies are particularly cute due to their floppy ears, gentle eyes and playful natures. If you are looking to adopt a Cocker Spaniel puppy, there are a variety of different places to look.