A Cocker Sheltie is a designer breed that results from the crossbreeding of a Cocker Spaniel and a Shetland Sheepdog. This unique mix gives the Cocker Sheltie a long and thick coat that requires regular brushing. They inherit traits such as herding instincts, a friendly nature, high energy levels, and a loving temperament from both parent breeds. Cocker Shelties are well-suited for homes with fenced-in yards and are a perfect choice for active dog owners.
They love being on the move and enjoy participating in various activities with their owners.
Below, we look at Cocker Sheltie dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Cocker Sheltie, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Cocker Shelties!
| Dog Breed | Cocker Sheltie |
| Size | Medium |
| Weight | 25-35 lbs (average) |
| Height | 14-16″ (average) |
| Location | United States |
| Ancestry | Cocker Spaniel, Shetland Sheepdog |
| Date of Origin | Unknown |
| Group | Companion |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years |
| Price | $900 – $1200 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The word “Spaniel” means “Spanish dog” and is believed to have originated in Spain. The Cocker Spaniel, thought to have been around since the 1300s, was initially trained to flush out woodcocks from their hiding places, hence the name. When first registered in 1878, the American Kennel Club divided the breed into land and water spaniels, further differentiating them by size. This division led to the creation of both the English Cocker Spaniel and the American Cocker Spaniel breeds, with the English Cocker Spaniel becoming separate in its own right in 1946. Both breeds belong to the Sporting Group of the AKC, with the American Cocker Spaniel being smaller. Both breeds are successful in the show ring.
The Shetland Sheepdog, also known as the Sheltie, is a miniature Collie that was developed in the Shetland Islands. Originally called the Shetland Collie, the Shetland Sheepdog came about during the 1700s when fishermen visited the Shetland Islands and brought their dogs with them. These dogs, including the King Charles Spaniel, Yakki dogs, Spitz-like dogs from Scandinavia, and Sheepdogs from Scotland, were bred with the Shetland dogs, resulting in the Shetland Sheepdog. The Shetland Sheepdog was primarily used as a herding dog. It was first registered with the American Kennel Club in 1911, with the dog named Lord Scott, who was imported from the Shetland Islands by John G. Sherman Jr. Today, Shetland Sheepdogs excel in flyball, tracking, and herding. They also make great therapy dogs.
🐕 Cocker Sheltie Appearance
The Cocker Sheltie will be a medium-sized dog with a double coat that is long and thick. Cocker Shelties can be found in merle, tricolor, black, brown, tan, and white, among other colors. He will weigh between 25 and 35 pounds and have a strong, nimble build. The hybrid will have a friendly and alert look on their faces. He could have drop ears. The nose is frequently long and thin, and the tail will be average in size. The head may be tapered like a Shetland Sheepdog or rounder like a Cocker Spaniel.
| 👀 Eye Color | Brown |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Sable, White, Black, Brown |
⚡ Fun Fact: Cocker Sheltie dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn’t tolerate being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Cocker Sheltie
A loving and gregarious breed, the cocker spaniel. They are kind, wise, and polite. They get along well with kids and other dogs if they are socialized early. The Cocker Spaniel is a people- and attention-hungry dog. They are simple to teach and make excellent obedience candidates. They are a curious, lively, and inquisitive breed. The Shetland Sheepdog has herding tendencies and is a herding dog. Because of this, they would bark at other animals or even people to “herd” them. They can also run off and pursue a different dog, automobile, or bike. He must always be walked on a leash. The bark of the Shetland Sheepdog is loud. The Shetland Sheepdog is a very smart dog that is simple to teach. They are a loving, vivacious, and playful breed. Your Cocker Sheltie will want to learn everything. He’ll be energetic and entertaining, and he’ll be a great family pet. He will require direction, and when given training, he will flourish in the home.
🤝 Are Cocker Shelties Friendly or Aggressive?
Cocker Sheltie dogs are known for their friendly nature, making them a popular choice for families. They are generally friendly towards strangers and enjoy being around children, making them a great choice for households with kids. Additionally, they are cat-friendly and get along well with other dogs, making them suitable for multi-pet households or dog meetups. Due to their gentle and affectionate nature, Cocker Shelties are also considered one of the best dog breeds for elderly individuals.
This breed is known for being:
- Playful
- Intelligent
- Friendly
- Responsive
- Affectionate
- Lively
- Gentle
- Trainable
- Quiet
- Faithful
🐩 Cocker Sheltie Care & Maintenance
The coat of the Cocker Sheltie will be thick and lengthy. Regular brushing will be required to keep his coat from matting and to assist eliminate dead hair. A mild dog shampoo must be used once a month to bathe the Cocker Sheltie. Every month, his nails need to be clipped. The Cocker Sheltie’s teeth should be cleaned with canine toothpaste several times a week to avoid tartar buildup. Hybrids with long ears might be more susceptible to issues, therefore it is advisable to examine them regularly for dirt, odor, or yeast growth. It is advised that dogs visit a veterinarian for a checkup once a year. Senior dogs and puppies will require more regular visits. A tick and flea preventive as well as monthly heartworm medicine may be advised by your veterinarian.
Cocker Sheltie dogs have a moderate shedding level, which is a normal part of their hair growth cycle. Regular brushing can help minimize the amount of hair that is shed. The shedding amount can vary depending on the dog’s overall health and breed. As for bath time, it is recommended to give Cocker Sheltie dogs a bath every 6 to 8 weeks.
🍖 Food: We recommend 3 cups daily, costing you about $1.20 – $1.40 daily, or around $34.00 – $52.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Cocker Sheltie dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 9 miles per week, which equates to about 60 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Cocker Sheltie dogs are high-energy dogs. An active lifestyle makes them happy.
❤️🩹 Cocker Sheltie Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Cocker Sheltie Dog Breed can be:
- Cataracts
- Hip Dysplasia
- Dermatomyositis
- vonWillebrand’s Disease
- Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
While minor concerns include:
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Hypothyroidism
- Atopy
🤧 Important: Is Cocker Sheltie hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Cocker Sheltie.
⚡ Cocker Sheltie Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Cocker Sheltie a great choice for families with young children?
The Cocker Sheltie is a great choice for families with young children because they are known to have a friendly and affectionate disposition. They are usually good with children and can form strong bonds with them.
Is the Cocker Sheltie breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
The Cocker Sheltie may not be considered a suitable breed for apartment living due to their high energy level and need for regular exercise. They thrive in a house with a fenced-in yard where they can run and play freely.
How much exercise does a Cocker Sheltie require compared to other breeds?
The Cocker Sheltie requires a moderate amount of exercise compared to some other breeds. They have a high energy level and will benefit from daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. However, they may not require as much exercise as some working or sporting breeds.
Is the Cocker Sheltie breed known for being good with other pets?
The Cocker Sheltie breed is known for being generally good with other pets, especially if they are properly socialized from a young age. However, as with any breed, individual temperament and training can also play a role in their compatibility with other pets.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Cocker Sheltie?
Some low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Cocker Sheltie include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bichon Frise, and Shih Tzu. These breeds often have shorter coats that require less grooming and shedding.
What are the common health issues that Cocker Shelties are prone to?
Common health issues that Cocker Shelties are prone to include ear infections, allergies, hip dysplasia, and eye problems such as cataracts. Regular veterinary care and proper grooming can help prevent or manage these issues.
Are Cocker Shelties known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Cocker Shelties are generally known to be intelligent and eager to please, which can make them relatively easy to train compared to some other breeds. However, individual temperament and consistency in training methods will also play a role in their trainability.
Are Cocker Shelties more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Cocker Shelties can be prone to separation anxiety, especially if they are not properly trained and socialized from a young age. It is important to gradually acclimate them to being alone and provide them with mental stimulation and exercise to prevent anxiety.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Cocker Sheltie that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Cocker Sheltie that are suitable for people with allergies include the Poodle, Bichon Frise, and Portuguese Water Dog. These breeds are often considered hypoallergenic or have low-shedding coats.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Cocker Sheltie are best for individuals or families with limited space?
For individuals or families with limited space, smaller-sized dogs similar to the Cocker Sheltie may be a better fit. Breeds such as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Shih Tzu, or Bichon Frise are smaller in size and may require less space.
Is the Cocker Sheltie breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Cocker Sheltie breed can be good with children with special needs, but it is important to consider individual temperament and the specific needs of the child. Proper socialization and training can help ensure a positive interaction between the dog and the child.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Cocker Sheltie?
The grooming and shedding needs of the Cocker Sheltie can be moderate to high compared to some other breeds. Their long and dense coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and they do shed, although not excessively. Regular grooming and maintenance are necessary to keep their coat in good condition.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Cocker Sheltie dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
