Spanador

20-47 lbs
18-20"
United States
Labrador Retriever
American Cocker Spaniel
Cockador, Cockerdor

Wonderfully loyal and affectionate, as well as being intelligent and very playful, the Spanador is the result of crossing the pure bred Labrador Retriever with an American Cocker Spaniel. It is a relatively new hybrid that is becoming very popular as a family dog and companion. The Spanador combines the sweet loving nature of the Labrador with the smaller attractive Cocker Spaniel which produces a smaller dog for families. Good looks and endearing personality combine to make one attractive dog. 

They are ideal to train as they love to please and will try hard to do what you ask. Combine loads of praise and a few treats and you will have a dog that will do anything for you. They thrive on affection and praise, and they love their people! Ideally they will live inside with you, they won't take kindly to a kennel away from its people. Even when they are grown up they will still try to sit on your lap or at least as close as they can to you. Children and the Spanador are a natural mix, they get on well and make fun playmates. But they are suspicious of strangers and will bark to alert you to any suspicious activity. 

A good all rounder, the Spanador is a beautiful dog with a kind gentle but active nature who makes a perfect lifetime companion.

purpose Purpose
Companion, Watchdog, Agility
history Date of Origin
Unknown
ancestry Ancestry
Labrador Retriever, American Cocker Spaniel

Spanador Health

Average Size
Male Spanador size stats
Height: 20-22 inches Weight: 22-50 lbs
Female Spanador size stats
Height: 18-20 inches Weight: 20-47 lbs
Major Concerns
  • Cataracts
  • Canine Hip Dysplasia (Chd)
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
  • Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat
Minor Concerns
  • Allergies
  • Weight Gain
Occasional Diagnoses
  • Epilepsy
  • Ear Infection and Inflammation
Occasional Tests
  • Eye Examination
  • Ear Examination
  • Urinalysis
  • Regular Full Physical Examination By Veterinarian
  • Blood Glucose Tests
  • Complete Ophthalmologic Examination
  • Blood Tests and Analysis
  • X-rays or other radiographic imaging
  • Allergy Testing

Spanador Breed History

Lets look at the history of the parent dogs to determine what characteristics are going to pass onto the Spanador. The first Cocker Spaniel in America arrived on the Mayflower with the Pilgrim Fathers in 1620. They were brought as both companion and working dogs for the new settlers. They were great to retrieve water fowl for the hunter, and became their trusted companion. As settlers poured into America these dogs helped them to explore and exploit the wild lands they found there. Developed from the English Cocker Spaniel in the 19th Century, the American Cocker Spaniel was at first just diffent in size only as it was a smaller dog. As the years passed and the breeding was perfected, the American Cocker was so different in so many ways that in 1945 it could no longer be judged as one breed and the American Kennel Club recognised the American Cocker Spaniel as its own breed in 1873.

The hard working American Cocker Spaniel was an ideal hunting dog, able to work in difficult terrain, and in all types of weather. They excelled at flushing out and retrieving game with a gentle mouth that didn't damage the game. Their skills are renown for agility, tracking, retrieving, watchdog and competitive obedience. The Labrador Retriever or Lab as they are affectionately known, originated in the Island of Newfoundland, off the coast of Canada. They were used to help fishermen retrieve fish that had escaped hooks and towing lines, often swimming in the freezing waters to assist. Originally called the St. John's dog after the capital city, they became valuable companions and working dogs for their owners. English sportsmen soon began importing them to England around 1830 and it was the third Earl of Malmesbury who first referred to these dogs as Labradors. In the 1880's they were almost extinct, but the Malmesbury family was credited with the saving of the breed. 

Sadly the breed disappeared in Newfoundland because of government restrictions and tax laws that only allowed one dog, and female dogs were highly taxed, so female pups were culled from litters. The American Kennel Club recognised the breed in 1917 and the Lab's popularity really took off, then after the war and in 1991 the Labrador Retriever became the most popular dog registered with the AKC. To this day they have held that position. Today the Labrador works in drug and explosive detection, search and rescue, therapy, assistance for the handicapped and as retrievers for the hunter.

This well loved and loyal animal is still as popular as ever, and makes a perfect companion.

Spanador Breed Appearance

The Spanador is an attractive dog, solid and yet athletic in build with a strong legs and large padded paws. The chest is deep and wide, and their strong neck supports the wedge shaped head and pointed muzzle. The top of the head is slightly rounded, with the ears set high but flopping over to hang down the side of the face. The ears may be fringed from the influence of the American Cocker Spaniel. Slightly smaller in size than the average Labrador Retriever, the Spanador is a good size for a family pet. Their large round eyes express both love and mischief, and their nose is usually a glossy black. The coat of a Spanador is medium to long and is quite dense, with feathering around the legs, ears and chest from the Cocker Spaniel. Attractive in both looks and nature, the Spanador is a hard dog to ignore.

Eye Color Possibilities
brown Spanador eyes
Brown
amber Spanador eyes
Amber
Coat Color Possibilities
white Spanador coat
White
red Spanador coat
Red
black Spanador coat
Black
brown Spanador coat
Brown
fawn Spanador coat
Fawn
cream Spanador coat
Cream
Coat Length
coat
Short Medium Long
Coat Density
coat density
pin
Sparse Normal Dense
Coat Texture
coat texture
Spanador straight coat texture
Straight Wiry Wavy Curly Corded

Spanador Breed Maintenance

The Spanador has a medium to long coat, depending on the genetic influence of the parent dogs. It sheds moderately, and at certain times of the year - especially the with the onslaught of summer. A good brushing will be required on a weekly basis, although it may need it twice a week during summer. Be prepared to vacuum often at this time to pick up the cast-off hairs. Using a comb will help remove the excess hair and prevent matting. Your Spanador may have longer hair or fringing around the legs, ears and chest as a gift from the American Cocker Spaniel parent. Comb or brush these to prevent tangles. 

This dog only needs a bath when required, that is - when they have rolled in something unpleasant smelling (which they will given a chance) or have run through the mud. Use a dog shampoo that will be kinder on their skin, as these dogs can suffer from dry itchy skin. Make sure you rinse them well and remove all soap suds too. Check their ears for infection and clean when necessary, and brush their teeth twice to three times per day. Finish off the grooming with a nail clip if required and remember to praise them profusely for being so good.

Insuring your Spanador puppy as soon as “pawssible” is essential for preventing high vet care costs. Start comparing insurance plans from leading insurers like Healthy Paws and Embrace and save over $270 a year.

Brushes for Spanador
Pin Brush
Pin Brush
Comb
Comb
Deshedder
Deshedder
Brushing Frequency
fur daily fur weekly fur monthly
Spanador requires weekly brushing
Daily Weekly Monthly

Spanador Temperament

Lively, curious, loyal, fun and slightly goofy, the Spanador has a love of life that is hard to ignore. Everything you do together will be enthusiastically embraced, whether you are going for a trek or just putting out the rubbish. Life is an adventure to these active dogs and they don't want to miss any of it. As a puppy they will curl up on your lap and refuse to move, they love being with you. Even as they mature they will still try to climb into your lap which can be a 50 pound problem! But it is hard to refuse such a good natured dog. Of course nothing is perfect and that can apply to the Spanador, with its need to be with you, its love of food (they can eat too fast and get bloated) or they can just have so much energy you wish you could unplug them for a while. 

Your children will love this happy pooch, and even the cat will be considered a friend. They are mellow, although a little reserved with strangers (a trait from the American Cocker Spaniel); this can slow this dog down a bit, but not for long. They love attention and will do almost anything to get it. They adapt well to country or town living, and if you have a yard, then that is the perfect lifestyle. Ensure the fence is secure as they can get distracted and wander away. They are adaptable to a variety of climates and situations, as long as you are there, they are happy. When you are choosing a puppy,  try to meet the parent dogs. If the American Cocker Spaniel is an outgoing friendly dog so much the better. Some Spaniels can have a streak of aggression but usually the Labrador influence will smooth that out. 

Training will come easily to the Spanador, they love to please and learn with fewer repetitions than other dogs. A newcomer on the dog breed scene, the Spanador is poised to become a favourite, taking after its parent dogs.

Spanador Activity Requirements

The Spanador is an active dog, especially when they are young. They are enthusiastic about everything, even just going outside to pick up the paper. These dogs love life and show it. They will love to be your jogging or walking mate, although use a leash as they have an avid curiosity and may wander off ignoring your calls if they are not restrained. 

The Spanador loves water, so if you are near the sea or a river, they will be in their element splashing around and swimming about. They will benefit from a safe enclosed yard to run around unrestrained, playing with their doggy toys or the family. A young Spanador needs to be introduced to exercise slowly, allowing its legs and muscles to strengthen before taking on any arduous treks. This precaution will save aches and pains as they age. The Spanador is not really suited to apartment living, unless it is an older dog who will be more mellow (hopefully) by then. They are too active and boisterous otherwise but that what makes this dog so appealing.

Activity Level
low activity medium activity high activity
Low Medium High
Rec. Walk Mileage Per Week
12 miles
walk mileage
Minutes of Activity Per Day
70 minutes
activity minutes

Spanador Food Consumption

Cups Per Day
3.5 cups
cup per day cost cup per day cost cup per day cost
Daily Cost
$1.20 - $2.00
food bowls daily cost
Monthly Cost
$39.00 - $45.00
food bag monthly cost

Spanador Height & Weight

6 Months
Male Spanador size stats at six months
Height: 10.5 inches Weight: 5.5 lbs
Female Spanador size stats at six months
Height: 9.0 inches Weight: 5.5 lbs
12 Months
Male Spanador size stats at 12 months
Height: 14.5 inches Weight: 12.0 lbs
Female Spanador size stats at 12 months
Height: 12.5 inches Weight: 11.0 lbs
18 Months
Male Spanador size stats at 18 months
Height: 21.0 inches Weight: 35.0 lbs
Female Spanador size stats at 18 months
Height: 20.0 inches Weight: 32.5 lbs

Spanador Owner Experiences

Cleo
17 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Our beautiful Cleo left us at the ripe old age of 17. She was a beautiful family member who loved life and all who were in it. She was a fun, loving, happy playmate to my sons and also bff with our burmese cat. She loved walks, people and other dogs. She did chew everything she could get her mouth around until she was 18 months old and she did malt...alot. Other than that she was the best dog we could ever have asked for.
1 year, 10 months ago
Lola
4 Years
4 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Go to Beach
Walk
Run
Look out the window
Groom
Play
Nap
Chase
Bath time
Brushing
Shake
Laying in the sun
Playing in the snow
She is an affectionate and happy dog.
5 years, 2 months ago
Brockley
9 Months
2 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Go to Park
Play keep away
Walk
Go to lake
Play Fight
Squeak toys
Ride in car
Swim
Tug-of-war
Nap
Fish
Fetch
socialize
Happy, healthy, sweet. Social butterfly. Not a really heavy chewer, but needs plenty of toys to keep his teeth healthy and occupied. Excellent with his older sister; great with strangers and other dogs so far. Bright, curious, playful. Picked up house/crate training easily with relatively few accidents. Quickly learns routine and comes to expect it naturally. Beautiful coat, handsome and expressive face. Wonderful breed of dog, especially if you have the time to teach them early on in life. Get one!
4 years, 11 months ago
Shadow
5 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Best dog we've ever had. He is so loving and loyal. LOVES to be with us!! Great with the kids in the neighborhood.
4 years, 4 months ago
Sparky
3 Years
4 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Walk
He is a very hyperactive dog who eats a lot of food daily
3 years, 1 month ago
Dayis
3 Years
4 People
Studio
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
she is very loving she likes play ball she doesn't like most of the Treats
3 years ago
Storm
8 Months
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Very loving always want to kiss and be on or at my side, very vocal and protective, I can also use her as my alarm clock she wakes with me at 4 and will lick my face until I get up. Sometimes she acts just like a child when she needs attention. Very social and does run into the neighbors yard if I’m not looking but comes when called, sometimes she can be a bit stubborn. She is ready for bed by 9pm always.
2 years, 10 months ago
Milo
18 Years
4 People
House
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Just to start this off, Milo is no longer with us. I picked him out when he was 4 weeks old and i had him until he was 18 and a half years old. he was amazing. he was good with kids adults and cats. he was afraid of other dogs and water. his coat matted fast. tried to keep on the brushing. he was a wonderful dog and i wish he could have lived for ever. he was easy to train fun to be with and a good best friend to grow up with. milo died nov, 4th 2017 but he will be with me for ever.
2 years, 9 months ago
Charlie
4 Years
2 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Chasing Frisbee or ball.
Walking or Running
cuddle
Car rides
We have had Charlie since June 10, 2020, a week after our 11 year old Lab mix died.
2 years, 9 months ago
Dakota
3 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Beautiful girl, got her when she was 8 weeks old. She's white with one black ear and black spots all over her almost like a dalmation coat. She is stubborn when we take her on walks so we just normally let her run around the garden. We get her cut professionally every 2-3 months, and she eats 2 cans a day with biscuits and the occasional pack of chicken thigh which is cooked with treats in between. She is extremely affectionate and playful and has never tried to attack any of my family.
2 years, 3 months ago
Stella
8 Years
3 People
House & Yard
Health
Grooming
Friendliness
Energy
Trainability
Pastimes
Hunting
Hunt
Sticky loving dog extremely easy to train every moment is joyfully spent with my pooch best experience in my opinion she understand my wishes from the start do not need to repeat my orders gets along very well with my neighbor who have autism well in short the best of the best ....
2 years ago
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Question - Other
Question

Are spansdos hypoallergenic

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Question - Other
Question

Hello there I have a six year old spanador and would like to let her have a litter. Would you recommend a particular breed for her ? We are thinking a labrador, springaspaniel or German shepard.

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Question - New pet
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Hi, I'm going to buy a puppy of Labrador father mix with cocker spaniel mother. What do you think about them. I would like to How big will they grow, appearance and attitude. I have mention my WhatsApp number below. Thanks

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Question - Other
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Do you have information on where in the USA we can find the Spanador breed?

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