Cocker Spaniel (Collins Dog Owner's Guides)

With clear illustrations and readable narrative, the book provides a basic overview of all that is involved in owning a cocker spaniel.

However, if you are looking for in-depth explanations for behavioural traits, training methods or grooming techniques this is not the book for you - further reading would definitely be required. Similarly, if the cocker is already part of your family and you are not planning to enter the realms of the show ring or breed circuit, 6 of the twelve chapters will not be relevant - an interesting read, but not particularly useful.

Overall, this book provides a sound basis for further reading. It is well presented and easy to understand, but does not go into enough depth to be the comprehensive guide it professes itself to be.


An excellent book about the basics of dog owning.   October 15, 2000
 19 out of 20 found this review helpful

Lesley Scott-Ordish shares her enthusiasm for Cocker Spaniels with the reader. This well presented book on Cocker Spaniels covers the basics of owning a dog from the 'new owner' puppy stage through to more detailed help on breeding, health and first aid. Ever wondered how to give a dog mouth-to-mouth? Read it here. Want to produce the next generation? This book is not coy about mating and whelping. Although some more discussion could have been made about the responsibilities of bringing more puppies into the world and the option of spaying a bitch.

The colourful pictures demonstrate the practicalities of dog owning and most have a high 'ahhh' factor. If you don't already love Cocker Spaniels then this book will start the process. The book is full of beautiful dogs and puppies. WARNING: Do not show this book to children unless you intend getting a dog.

It is highly accessible and interesting book on dogs and will be avidly ready by children as much as adults. The content is extensive covering the breed, puppies, their care, training, diet, grooming, training and showing. It covers 'Rage Syndrome' and the controversial subject of docking.

Most sections are in danger of being too short, but never become boring. It is up-to-date with the latest on microchip identification but not regarding the latest on the relaxation of UK quarantine restrictions. The health section is highly informative with most illnesses and conditions that most dog owners are likely to experience. However, this section could have been shorter with more put into the adequate but brief training section.

This book does not contain any breeders addresses but lists several useful contacts such as the Kennel Club and other Cocker Spaniel/Dog associations. Web links are conspicuous by their absence and I'd hope that these will be included in the next edition.

Summary; an excellent book about the basics of dog owning.