With many readers coming to cockers for the first time, this book offers complete guidance for their very earliest care and training at home, and then introduces both cockers and their owners to a range of different activities and competitions.Drawing on more than a quarter of a century's experience with cockers, the author takes you on a wonderful journey from the moment your puppy arrives home to the day that you start enjoying sports and activities together. The Cocker Spaniel covers every aspect of cockers, from the history of the breed to healthcare and problem-solving guides.There is also valuable information on contacting the wider cocker community and on joining groups and clubs. Many cocker owners also want to work their dog as a gundog in country sports, including field trials and working tests. With The Cocker Spaniel, the transition from family dog at home to elite performance dog in the field is seamless and straightforward to achieve. There is invaluable technical instruction on how to work your cocker in the field, as the author has achieved successfully, with five Field Trial Champions to her name.