12-16 lbs
10-12"
Unknown
The Silky Cocker is a hybrid dog that was developed by crossing the Maltese and the Cocker Spaniel. Because neither of these dogs is particularly large, this mixed-breed companion is relatively small and typically stands less than 14 inches tall and weighs under 20 pounds. They have soft, silky, wavy or straight coats that require moderate maintenance and range in color from black to cream and several shades in between. These affectionate dogs maintain many of their parent’s characteristics, including a strong hunting drive. While Silky Cockers are bred primarily as companion animals, their drive to hunt often makes them prone to wandering. Their exercise needs are limited, but they do best in fenced-in yards.
The Silky Cocker is a relatively new hybrid breed, so very little of its history is known. What is known is that this cross between the ever-popular Cocker Spaniel and Maltese is an excellent pet for families and first-time pet owners. This mixed breed embodies the best features of both parent breeds, including loyalty, intelligence and affection. The American Cocker Spaniel was developed in the 1800s and was bred as a hunting dog and to retrieve birds. They are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, and they have been popular since making their debut. The American Kennel Club has officially recognized the American Cocker Spaniel since 1878, and the breed still remains one of the most popular in the nation. The English Cocker Spaniel was also developed during the 1800s and was bred for the same purposes as the American Cocker. The loving Maltese has existed since ancient times and has been bred to be a loyal companion and comforter to its owners. The breed has gone by several names over the years, including the Maltese Terrier, Melitae dog, Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta and the Maltese Lion dog. These compact canines originated in Malta and were once used to comfort sick people throughout Egypt. They were frequently depicted in ancient paintings, poems and other artwork. The breed remains popular to this day and still serves as a loyal comforter and companion to their owners around the world. The Maltese is also commonly kept as a show dog and can be seen at dog shows spanning the globe.
The Silky Cocker is a small, lightweight dog with a long, silky coat. This soft coat may be straight or wavy and ranges greatly in color. Common colors include apricot, black, chocolate, cream, gold and red. The Silky Cocker’s coat often reaches the floor and flows gracefully when the dog walks. The muzzle is medium in length and ends in a small nose which varies in color depending on the color of the coat. Most, however, are brown or black. The eyes are typically brown. Silky Cockers have ears that are floppy and fold over. Some may have feathered ears like the Cocker Spaniel.
Though the Maltese lacks a double coat and is considered hypoallergenic, the Cocker Spaniel does shed. The Silky Cocker, therefore, is not considered hypoallergenic, and the breed is known to shed moderately. To keep this dog’s coat in good condition and to prevent mats and tangles, it needs to be brushed daily. Brushing regularly with a slicker brush and metal comb is highly recommended. If you add a Silky Cocker to your family, you should also expect to make regular grooming appointments. These dogs need to be bathed regularly and should be groomed professionally no less than every few months. You may also need to clean the eye area frequently to prevent staining. The claws should also be trimmed and the ears and teeth should be cleaned on a regular basis.
Silky Cockers are prized for their loving, affectionate nature. They are fiercely loyal, and nothing makes them happier than spending time with their owners. Both the Cocker Spaniel and Maltese tend to do well with children, so the Silky Cocker is an excellent pet. Because of their small size, though, they may be snippy with young children who have not been taught how to handle them properly. This breed is intelligent and moderately easy to train. Like many small breeds, they are sometimes difficult to housebreak. There are eager to please their owners, though, so consistent training typically brings the desired results.
Both the Maltese and Cocker Spaniel are moderately active. The Silky Cocker is energetic and requires regular exercise, but its small size makes getting that exercise easy. A daily walk or a trip to the dog park is a great way to burn off energy and keep your canine companion happy. This breed also enjoys exploring the backyard, but its drive to hunt and wander could create a dangerous situation if the area is not securely fenced. These intelligent dogs also require mental stimulation, and they respond well to training exercises and opportunities to please their owners. They thrive in just about any environment as long as they get about an hour of exercise every day.
Written by a Black Labrador lover Samantha Mittelmeier
Published: 12/13/2017, edited: 02/24/2021
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