If you have a Pitbull or a Cocker Spaniel, you already know how loyal, adorable, and intelligent they can be. But what happens when you mix these two dog breeds into one dog? What will this hybrid dog look like and will he be aggressive?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix, including common health issues, physical appearance, temperament, basic care needs, and whether they make good family pets.
Let’s first start with a brief overview of the Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix.
Table of Contents
Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix: Breed overview
| Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix | |
| Other Names | Cockerpit, Pitbull Cocker Spaniel, Cocker Pitbull, Cocker Spaniel Pit Bull, Pit Bull Cocker Spaniel, Pitbull Spaniel Mix, Pit Spaniel Mix, Pit Spaniel |
| Purity | Mixed |
| Purpose | Watchdogs or companions |
| AKC Recognition | No |
| Size | Medium |
| Weight | 25-28 pounds |
| Height | 14-15 inches |
| Coat Colors | Black, brown, gold, others |
| Child Friendliness | Friendly |
| Canine Friendliness | Potentially aggressive if not trained |
| Training Difficulty | Easy |
| Grooming Upkeep | Medium (some care needed for longer fur) |
| Exercise Needs | High |
| Health | No high risks |
| Lifespan | 12-16 years |
| Puppy Costs | Medium to high |
What is a Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix?
A Cocker Spaniel and Pitbull Mix is a mixed breed that comes from partnering an American Pitbull Terrier and a Cocker Spaniel. This mixed dog breed is becoming increasingly popular as it combines the traits of both breeds.
The Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix is not only unique but also an interesting mixed dog breed.
Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix: Parent breeds
To learn more about the Pit Bull Cocker Spaniel Mix, it’s a good idea to start by understanding more about the American Pitbull Terrier and Cocker Spaniel parent breeds. The Pitbull and Cocker Spaniel are great dogs and they are individually very popular canine companions.
Although Cocker Spaniels and Pitbulls are different in many ways, they both do share some similarities.
Let’s first dive into their histories and background.
Related Article: Coonhound Pitbull Mix (Complete Guide)
Cocker Spaniel history
Cocker Spaniels are gentle, easy-going, and friendly dog breed. They are loyal and intelligent and rank as one of the most popular dogs in both the US and UK. Cocker Spaniels have long, droopy ears, a shiny coat of long fur, and tend to be golden or light brown in color.
The Cocker Spaniel breed dates back to the 14th century and originated in Spain. However, they have since become very popular in the United Kingdom and are often called the English Cocker Spaniel.
Cocker Spaniels used to be hunting dogs, as they often had a natural urge to do so and were good at it.
Did you know? Both Vizsla and Pitbull were used as hunting dogs as well. Check out Vizsla Pitbull Mix (Complete Guide) to learn if this designer breed would be a perfect K9 companion for you and your family.
American Pitbull Terrier history
When it comes to Pitbulls, it’s important to note that the term “Pitbull” can be used to refer to a group of dog breeds consisting of the following:
- American Pit Bull Terrier.
- American Bully.
- American Staffordshire Terrier.
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
- American Bulldog.
For the purposes of this article, when we used the word “Pitbull,” we are specifically referring to the American Pitbull Terrier dog breed. The American Pitbull Terrier is one of the parent breeds involved in the Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix.
The American Pitbull Terriers are extremely intelligent and friendly dog breeds. They possess a playful and joyful temperament which they maintain throughout their lifetime.
If you are looking for a loyal canine companion with a zest for life and one that will inject vitality into your home, the American Pitbull Terrier or the Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix may be the best furry friend for you and your family.
Originally from England, the American Pitbull Terriers were known to be great guard dogs and watchdogs. Their bulky and stubborn demeanor can make them look mean, aggressive, and intimidating.
However, in reality, Pitbulls aren’t as fierce or intimidating as you may think. If socialized and trained properly while young or during puppyhood, Pitbulls can make great canine companions.
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Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix physical appearance
Cocker Spaniels and Pitbulls have very different physical characteristics. For this reason, mixing them can often produce very interesting and unique results. However, there are some similarities that they share.
Pitbull and Cocker Spaniel are often muscular and smaller in size. They have strong, athletic bodies that come from both parents.
Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix also tends to have a round, broad head with a squarish muzzle and a laid-back chest. The color and length of their fur coat is the factor that tends to vary the most.
Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix size, height, and weight
Cocker Spaniel Pitbulls tend to be in the small to medium size range as both parent breeds are about that size. To get a good idea of the size, height, and weight of an adult Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix, you’ll want to take a look at their parent’s measurement.
The average height of a Cocker Spaniel is about 14 to 17 inches while the Pitbull has an average height of about 17 to 21 inches.
When it comes to weight, the Cocker Spaniel usually weighs between 20 and 30 pounds while the Pitbull usually weighs between 30 to 60 pounds.
Therefore, an adult Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix can weigh anywhere between 25 and 55 pounds and reach a height of between 15 and 20 inches.
Below is a table of the size, height, and weight of a Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix:
Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix Full Grown
| Male | Female | |
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Height | 15-20 inches | 15-20 inches |
| Weight | 25-55 pounds | 25-55 pounds |
Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix coat colors and types
The coat appearance of a Pitbull Terrier Cocker Spaniel Mix can vary greatly from litter to litter. This is because the parent breeds have very different types of fur coats.
Cocker Spaniels tend to have thick, silky, and sometimes wavy fur. On the other hand, Pitbulls have smooth and glossy coats of short fur.
The Cocker Spaniels can come in many different colors including:
- Black.
- White.
- Liver.
- Golden.
- Lemon.
- Red.
- Orange.
- Blue.
- Tan.
- Chocolate.
The American Pit Bull Terrier can come in these colors:
- Black.
- Black brindle.
- Blue.
- Blue brindle.
- Blue fawn.
- Blue fawn brindle.
- Fawn.
- Fawn sable.
- Fawn brindle.
- Red.
- Red Brindle.
- Tan.
- Seal.
- Buckskin.
- Reverse brindle.
- Tricolor.
Check out: Tri Color Pitbull (Complete Guide)
Therefore, the Pitbull Terrier Cocker Spaniel Mix can come in a wide variety of colors, including black, white, brown, and gold. The black Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix is actually quite popular.
Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix temperament and personality
Every Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix is unique and their temperament will vary for sure. The Pitbull mixed with Cocker Spaniel may have a mix of characteristics from each parent or lean towards one parent’s traits.
In general, the Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix is sweet-natured, loyal, and eager to please. They are very friendly and playful. Many people enjoy Cocker Spaniel and Pitbull Mix for the liveliness they bring into the family.
They are alert and can often be good watchdogs, although they tend to be too friendly to act as guard dogs.
However, if the Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix has more of the Pitbull genes, they may also be stubborn and aggressive. Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix needs to be trained well and socialized from a young age to prevent such aggressive behavior and to ensure that they recognize and obey their owners.
Do Pit Cocker Spaniel Mix make great family pets?
Yes, Pit Cocker Spaniel Mix does make great family pets. That’s because the Pitbull and Cocker Spaniel Mix has a friendly disposition and a loyal personality.
If you are looking for a loyal, zesty, and fun furry companion to fill your house with love and laughter, a Cocker Spaniel Pitbull will be the perfect family dog for you.
The only catch is that the Pitbull Cocker Spaniel does tend to be fairly active. If you don’t have the resources or capacity to take them out for daily walks or spend time with them, then the Cocker Spaniel and Pitbull Mix may become destructive.
Are Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix aggressive?
Yes, the Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix can show some aggression towards other dogs if they take after their American Pitbull Terrier parent.
Generally, the Pitbull and Cocker Spaniel Mix are easy-going, good-natured, and will get along just fine with other people and strangers. Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix that inherits the American Pitbull Terrier’s stubborn traits may be more obstinate in nature.
Fun Question: Are Doberman Pitbull Mix aggressive dogs? Check out Doberman Pitbull Mix (Complete Guide) to find out!
Cocker Spaniel Pit Bull Mix training
Training is key to having well-behaved Pitbull Cocker Spaniel dogs. Cocker Spaniel and Pitbull Mix can be very obedient and loving dogs if trained and managed well.
When your Pitbull Cocker Spaniels are puppies, you’ll want to start obedience, behavioral, and socialization training right away. Training from a young age helps to ensure that your four-legged friends learn the correct behaviors and know how to interact with other people and pets.
Learning how to get along with other dogs, animals, and people will also help to ensure your Pitbull Spaniel is less aggressive. This also makes it easier for you to bring them out for their daily walks around the neighborhood, to the dog park, or to the vet.
Pitbull and Cocker Spaniel Mix exercise requirement
Both Pitbull dogs and Cocker Spaniels are highly active and enjoy getting a good workout. It stands to reason that the same applies to the Cocker Spaniel Pitbull! You should bring him or her out for at least 1 hour of walking or playing every day.
Whether you’re walking, hiking, running, or biking with your Pitbull and Cocker Spaniel Mix, make sure that they are on a leash. Either a retractable dog leash or a rope dog leash can help to make sure your pooch is walking beside you and you have full control of him or her.
Playing fetch in your backyard or a nearby park or garden can be a great way for them to stay active.
You may like: Check out Best Indestructible Dog Toys for a list of doggy balls, frisbees, and romp-n-rolls to get for your furry friends. We’ve provided a list of top picks that are budget-friendly and include reviews you don’t want to miss!
Many dog owners who allow their canine friends to roam freely in their backyard will install a wireless dog fence. The wireless dog fence helps to give you peace of mind that your pups are safe while they run, play, and enjoy the sun and fresh air.
Pit Bull Cocker Spaniel living conditions
The Cocker Pitbull Mix is a small-to-medium dog that does not require much space. He is best suited to live in apartments, condos, or flats. However, it is advisable to ensure he gets enough exercise, preferably in cooler weather.
The Cocker Pitbull Mix is not suited for living or over-exerting himself in hot weather.
Pitbull Cocker Spaniel grooming and cleaning
Your Pitbull Cocker Spaniel’s grooming needs will differ depending on his coat type. If he has the longer, silkier fur coat of a Cocker Spaniel, then you’ll need to brush their coat at least once a week. Pitbull Cocker Spaniels with a shorter coat, similar to that of a Pitbull, will only require brushing every other week.
Be sure to use a good quality brush made for dog grooming that will help to detangle and brush off excess fur without damaging the coat or skin.
You should bathe your Pitbull Cocker Spaniel at least once every few weeks. In some cases where they tend to get oily or dirty more easily, you will need to bathe them more frequently. Be sure to use dog shampoo that will help get rid of dirt and oil while also keeping their skin and coat clean, healthy, and moisturized.
It is also important to check their ears as both the Pitbull and Cocker Spaniel parent breeds are prone to ear infections. It is recommended that you clean their ears at least once a week, using cotton balls damped with a dog ear cleaning solution.
Another thing to note is to trim your Pitbull Cocker Spaniel’s nails at least once every few weeks. If you find that they grow too long or start clicking against the floor as they walk, it is a good indication that it is time for a trim.
If your canine friends hate nail trimming sessions due to the sound of the nail clippers, try using a dog nail grinder. Dog nail grinders are not only quiet due to their whisper-quiet motors, but also they are more precise while trimming your furry friend’s nails. Using a nail grinder instead of a clipper can help to reduce accidents such as clipping the quick.
Lastly, remember to brush your Cocker Spaniel Pitbull’s teeth with dog toothpaste daily or at least a few times a week to ensure they have good dental hygiene.
Are Cocker Spaniel Pit Mix hypoallergenic?
No, Cocker Spaniel Pit Mix are not hypoallergenic. Both parent breeds are not hypoallergenic and can cause some allergic reactions to those who are sensitive to dogs.
Although Pitbulls have short hair, they shed quite a lot and can spread more dog dander as a result.
Find out more here: Are Pitbulls Hypoallergenic?
Cocker Spaniels also shed a lot as they have a double coat of long, silky fur. They will shed even more in the fall and spring, which are their shedding seasons. It does not matter if you cut their hair shorter, they will still shed.
Read more here: Are Cocker Spaniels Hypoallergenic?
Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix food and diet
Cocker Spaniel Pitbulls need a well-balanced and nutritious diet with plenty of protein to maintain their muscle mass. You can buy or prepare a nutritious kibble or dry food mix for your dog. You can even mix in some cooked or raw meat, fish, fresh fruit or vegetables, and whole grains for your Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix.
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Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix common health issues
The Pitbull and Cocker Spaniel Mix are generally healthy dogs. However, they can be susceptible to certain types of health issues. Being aware of these potential health issues can help you take preventive measures.
If you have a Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix or another mixed dog breed and want to know what health issues they are predisposed to, it’s a good idea to ask your dog’s breeder or veterinarian. If none of these options are possible, you can alternatively use a dog DNA test.
To find out what health problems my two furry friends are most susceptible to, I use the Embark dog DNA test. The test results came back within two weeks and the health detection results helped me to understand how I can better take care of my two pups.
Did I mention that it also helps to identify your dog’s specific breed? Check it out here:
1. Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition that can be passed down from parent to offspring. Dogs with hip dysplasia have an abnormally developed hip joint which causes them to be unable to walk properly.
2. Ear Infections
This is a common problem among dogs, especially in Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix as both parent breeds are prone to ear infections too.
3. Allergies
The Cocker Spaniel Pitbull is a mixed dog breed that is fairly sensitive to various allergens from both the environment and certain food types. They can also be sensitive to pollen.
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4. Hypothyroidism
The thyroid gland is responsible for producing hormones that regulate metabolism. Dogs with hypothyroidism have an underactive thyroid gland which can lead to issues such as weight gain, hair loss, and lethargy. Be careful not to overfeed your furry friends and also be aware of the risk of hypothyroidism.
5. Eye Problems
Cocker Spaniel Pitbulls can sometimes get progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). It is a degenerative disease that eventually leads to blindness.
Read also: How To Soften Dog Eye Boogers?
6. Skin Infections
Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix is also vulnerable to skin infections. If your furry friends get any cuts or wounds, you’ll want to clean them well as bacteria and fungi can easily enter the skin and cause infections.
It is also important to clean your dog regularly overall as some of these scratches are too small to be visible.
Also read: Dried Dead Tick On Dog (How To Remove & What To Do)
7. Kneecap Luxation
Pitbull and Cocker Spaniel Mix can be prone to kneecap dislocations and displacements. If this happens, you may see them walking abnormally or skipping steps as they move on three legs instead of four.
8. Heart Diseases and Congenital Defects
It is common for dogs to have heart diseases as they age. Some of the more common diseases are pulmonic stenosis, subaortic stenosis (SAS), ventricular septal defect (VSD), and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).
9. Elbow Dysplasia
Apart from hip dysplasia, Pitbull Cocker Spaniel can also suffer from elbow dysplasia. This refers to a dislocation of the joint at the forelimb, which leads to limping.
10. Epilepsy
Epilepsy refers to a disorder that causes seizures. It can happen suddenly to dogs for no apparent reason, and Pitbull and Cocker Spaniel Mix are not exempt from this.
Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix lifespan
The Cocker Spaniel and Pitbull Mix’s lifespan is estimated to be between 12 and 16 years. This may vary depending on their health, diet, and amount of exercise.
Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix breeders
If you’re interested in owning a Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix, you’ll want to reach out to responsible and reputable breeders near you. You can find them either online or in person. Reputable breeders should always allow you to check out their facilities in person so you can observe the living conditions of the puppies and their mother dogs.
If you’re buying a Pitbull Cocker Spaniel puppy from a breeder, feel free to ask them questions regarding any predisposed health issues the puppies may have, what type of food they are currently on, and the age of the puppies.
Good breeders will always take the time to answer your questions and allow you to see both the health and vaccination records of the puppies and the mother dogs.
Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix puppies
Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix puppies are becoming quite popular. You can search for Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix puppies online or reach out to local breeders and pet stores.
Alternatively, you can also check in with your local rescues or adoption centers to see if they may have a Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix puppy available.
Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix price
The price varies, and some can be adopted at shelters for a small fee. However, you can expect a well-bred Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix to cost $3,000 or more.
Finding a healthy Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix for sale
It is important to find a healthy Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix for sale. Having a healthy and well-bred puppy will save you future veterinary costs and also ensure you have a happy, healthy pup!
Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix: Pros and Cons
Just like any other dog breed, owning a Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix comes with its own pros and cons. This hybrid dog is suitable for owners who have time to play with their canine friends.
| Pros | Cons |
| Playful and loving. | Needs consistent exercise and activity. |
| Adapts easily to new environments. | Needs a lot of attention and care. |
| Easy to train. | Needs early training for socialization. |
| Great personality, temperament, and socialization skills. | Can be stubborn. |
| Loyal and alert. | Potentially aggressive if not trained well. |
| Good with families and children. | Gets bored easily and becomes destructive. |
Is the Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix right for me?
Before you go out and buy or adopt a Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix, consider the pros and cons first to make sure you are able to care for him well.
The Cocker Spaniel and Pitbull Mix may be more suitable for owners who have the time and patience to train them and provide them with lots of playtime and exercise.
Also, the Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix may be suitable for families with children or lots of people to engage the dog. With the right care, a Pitbull Cocker Spaniel can make a loving canine companion and bring you lots of joy and laughter.
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The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Resources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cocker_Spaniel
https://www.aspca.org/about-us/aspca-policy-and-position-statements/position-statement-pit-bulls
With over five years of specialized experience as an animal writer, my expertise lies in dog nutrition, health, behavior, grooming, and training. I am dedicated to delivering helpful and informative content that caters to the well-being of our furry friends. My primary goal is to empower pet owners with knowledge and ensure our canine companions thrive in health and happiness. In my free time, I love volunteering at local dog rescue centers.
