Cocker Jack

He is not recognized by the F.C.I.

Origin
Great Britain <> Australia -> U.S.A.
Translation
Francis Vandersteen

A brief presentation of the Cocker Jack

The Cocker Jack is a small to medium-sized dog resulting from the cross-breeding of a Jack Russell Terrier and an English Cocker Spaniel. This new breed is friendly and active, a perfect blend of the two parent dogs. The boldness of the Jack Russell Terrier is tempered by the reserve and gentler characteristics of the English Cocker Spaniel. The Cocker Jack is ideal for a family, although supervision is necessary with toddlers who can sometimes play a little rough and may unintentionally injure your small dog. These dogs are loyal and affectionate, devoted to their human family. They can be a little reserved with strangers, but when warm to them, they become welcoming and friendly.

History of the Cocker Jack

The Cocker Jack doesn't have much data on its entry into the hybrid breed history books, so the easiest way to analyze your Cocker Jack's likely characteristics is to look at the past of the parent breeds. The Cocker Jack is thus endowed with two sets of genes producing an active, affectionate and totally lovable dog.
        

A little of the English Cocker Spaniel

        
Looking at the history of the English Cocker Spaniel, their history is linked to hunting, just like that of the Jack. The name Spaniel means Spanish dog, and it's thought that they originated in Spain. In 1881, the American Spaniel Club was formed, which included many different types of Spaniel. Over time, breeders split into separate organizations as differences between Spaniels were defined. It took many years of work before the American Kennel Club finally recognized the American Cocker Spaniel as a distinct breed. The English Cocker Spaniel became a favorite in the show ring and breeders moved away from breeding for hunting and more towards traits that would win in the show ring. The English Cocker Spaniel has a gentle temperament and is affectionate and family-loving. They are known to have a sensitive nature, which means they need gentle, kind handling to bring out their best.
Standard of the English Cocker Spaniel

A little of the Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier is a proud and courageous little dog. They were originally bred to hunt foxes that had gone underground during a hunt. The breed originated in Devon, England, in the mid-1800s. The Reverend Jack Russell who founded the breed preferred a longer-legged terrier that could keep up with the dogs, so he created a longer-legged type known as the Parsons Russell Terrier, of which the Jack Russell Terrier is a smaller version.
Standard of the Jack Russell Terrier

Appearance of the Cocker Jack

The Cocker Jack dog's appearance can vary considerably, depending on which parent it most desires. They can have the typical Spaniel look, with longer, silky hair, floppy, often feathered ears and a fluffy tail. Or they may resemble a Jack Russell Terrier, with short, smooth hair, smooth folded ears and a straight, pointed tail. Either way, they'll have the most attractive face, with large oval eyes with dark rims. The head is rounded, with a long muzzle in proportion to the head. A black nose with wide nostrils and a happy smile define the face. The body is robust and strong, with short, small, rounded legs.

Temperament of the Cocker Jack

Cute, fun-loving, affectionate and happy come to mind when talking about the Cocker Jack. They're active little dogs, but they'll fill your lap as soon as you sit down. The Cocker Jack does well in training, but it can take a lot longer and require more patience as they can have a slight stubborn sequence. At first, short sessions will help them focus and try to make them fun with lavish praise and treats. This dog can be slightly aggressive with toddlers as they don't respond well to tail-pulling or ear-chewing, but to mitigate the risk, grow the puppy up with the children and teach dog and children to respect each other. Cocker Jacks love to play and benefit from a little space to explore, so a well-fenced yard is ideal. Some dogs have a tendency to dig everywhere, so be aware of this from the start and try to distract them to prevent them from developing this habit. They do best with a strong but gentle owner who asserts himself as the pack leader. All in all, the Cocker Jack is an adorable little dog who will win your heart and be a devoted little companion.

Needs and activities of the Cocker Jack

Depending on how much your Cocker Jack dog takes after its parent breed, the level of activity can vary considerably. Some dogs can be lively, like the Jack Russell, while others can be more mellow and laid-back, like the English Cocker Spaniel. But whatever the case, your Cocker Jack will need a daily walk to stay in shape, and will appreciate the freedom of playing and socializing with other dogs at the beach or dog park. At home, a fenced-in yard is ideal for these dogs. They can live in an apartment if they get enough exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy. Cocker Jacks are perfect in hot weather where swimming will help them stay cool, or in colder climates where they may need a dog coat when out walking. They should have about an hour's walk a day to stay agile and fit.

Maintenance of the Cocker Jack

The Cocker Jack is a low-maintenance dog with an easy-to-clean, beautiful coat. Brushing twice a week with a firm bristle brush will remove any loose hairs, and bathing only when necessary will keep the coat in good condition. Remember to use a special dog shampoo when bathing, as human shampoos are too strong and can cause allergies. Other maintenance tasks include keeping the inside of the ears clean and regularly checking for debris build-up or infection. If there is, you'll notice an unpleasant odor coming from the ear, and your dog may scratch his ears and whine. A quick visit to the vet will help clear up the infection. Clean your Cocker Jack's teeth regularly. You should start this practice when your dog is young, to get him used to it. At first, reduce brushing time and reward your dog with cuddles and lots of praise for his efforts. Soon, your dog will enjoy his regular grooming sessions and see it as a way of attracting more attention from you.

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