A parti cocker spaniel, a type cocker spaniel, has a distinctive coat pattern. It has a coat that consists of two main colors and some patching. A parti is also known as a roan, which is a combination of the two different colours. A coat pattern may include a combination of both the two colours or one of them. Regardless of the marking pattern, partis can be classified as a different colour than the original white Cocker.
A parti cocker spaniel can be a handsome dog, with a thick and wavy coat. A parti cocker spaniel’s coat is short at the ears and head, but long at the legs, belly and chest. Cocker spaniels are well-known for their intelligence, loyalty, companionship, and temperament.
A Cocker Spaniel descends from a food-producing breed that was bred for hunting and for companionship. Nicholas Cox described small-sized land spaniels with wanton tails as agile rangers and active dogs with bold, energetic personalities. A “witch-finder general” of England’s infamous witch-hunting trials once described a fat spaniel as a “witch-hunter without legs.”
Some of the most common health problems in Cockers include progressive retinal atrophy, which affects the eye cells and may eventually cause blindness. Cataracts are cloudy films on the eye, while glaucoma causes pressure inside the eyeball. Fortunately, most affected Cockers respond to medication. Hypothyroidism can cause weight loss, obesity, and dark spots on the skin. If you suspect your Cocker might be suffering from hypothyroidism, consult a veterinarian immediately.
A Cocker Spaniel with a merle color is not a true breed. Merle-colored dogs are often bred for novelty and a unique color. However, the American Spaniel Club, Inc. warns that breeding merle-colored dogs poses serious risks to their health. Merle-colored Cocker Spaniels are born with a mutation of a gene that produces the pigment discoloration on the coat and eyes. It is believed that the mutation in the merle gene came from the wolf’s ancestors.
Another difference between a tan-colored Cocker Spaniel and a roan-colored dog is the color of the markings. A roan-colored dog has light brown fur on the head, legs, and feet. The coat of a roan Cocker Spaniel can have varying colors, making it impossible to differentiate between the two. For example, the blue roan is black with some white hairs intermixed in, making the color look like a lighter blue. A chocolate-colored Cocker Spaniel is a liver-colored dog with white hairs mixed in.
The Cocker Spaniel is a versatile dog breed. It is a great companion for family members and has won the hearts of many celebrities. Checkers was a campaign gift from the Nixons for their daughters. He remained with them until his death in 1964. Checkers is often featured in dog books. They are the dogs of choice for many celebrities, including Presidents. So, what better way to celebrate their love for this popular breed than by buying a Cocker Spaniel.