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The Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix, also known as the Pit Spaniel Mix, “Cockerpit,” or “Pitbull Cocker,” is a crossbreed between the American Pit Bull Terrier and the Cocker Spaniel.
This hybrid dog was first bred in the United States, and its popularity has grown steadily over the past few years. In fact, many new Pitbull cross breeds are popping up all over the place. This is primarily due to social media debunking many negative myths about the American Pitbull Terrier.
In this article, I will cover everything you need to know about the cocker spaniel pitbull mix breed, including its history, physical characteristics, temperament, and any other questions about this dog.
Table of Contents
Let’s dive in.
What Is A Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix?
The Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix is a hybrid dog breed made by crossing a purebred Cocker Spaniel and a purebred American Pitbull Terrier. These mixed breeds are also referred to as “designer dogs” that occur from deliberate mating.
For a crossbreed like the Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix, they can take the personality and physical traits from either of their parent breeds.
This makes each dog unique in their own way, so it’s impossible to predict what the Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix will be like.
The American Pitbull Terrier is a strong, athletic breed known for being friendly, loving, and loyal to its family. On the other hand, the Cocker Spaniel is a gentle, cheerful breed that is known for being great with kids and other pets.
When you mix these two breeds together, you get a protective, intelligent, athletic, and energetic dog.
History Of The Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix
The history of mixed breeds like the Pit Bull Cocker Spaniel Mix is unclear. Since they are so new and don’t contain any breed standards, It’s tough to know their exact history.
No proof exists of when they were first created or who was the first to breed them. However, realistically it probably happened naturally.
So since we cannot pinpoint this mixed breed’s exact history, we must look at the history of each parent breed.
Cocker Spaniel History
The Cocker Spaniel is a breed of dog developed in England in the 1800s. They were originally bred to hunt game birds like partridges and woodcocks.
In recent years, this strong, adaptable, and intelligent breed has become a popular choice for families as a loyal and loving companion dog.
The Cocker Spaniel was first recognized as a distinct breed in 1878 by the American Kennel Club (AKC). They are the smallest member of the Sporting Group. It’s also known for producing some of the most varied numbers of pups in a litter compared to all dog breeds.
American Pitbull Terrier History
The American Pitbull Terrier is a breed with an illustrious history. They were developed in England in the 1800s for blood sports such as bull-baiting and dog fighting.
These blood sports were eventually outlawed in 1835, which led to the decline of the Pitbull breed. However, It wasn’t until the late 1800s that they began to be bred for companionship, hunting, herding, and protection.
Pitbulls are a very muscular and athletic breed. They are also known for their intelligence and loyalty. Unfortunately, they have also been stereotyped as being aggressive and dangerous due to their history.
However, this is not an accurate portrayal of the breed. With proper socialization and training, Pitbulls can be loving and gentle companion dogs.
Further Readings: Pocket Pitbull (AKA The Mini Pitbull): All You Need To Know
What Was The Pitbull Belgian Malinois Mix Bred For?
The Pit Spaniel mix was most likely bred for companionship. However, since they inherit traits from both parent breeds, they may also be suitable for other purposes such as hunting, herding, and protection.
This strong and athletic breed is known for being intelligent, loyal, and loving. They would make an excellent guard dog, hunter, or family companion.
Though the exact reason is unknown for which they were bred, when you look at the history and temperament of both parent breeds, you can make some estimations.
However, they may have also been bred naturally without a real purpose, to begin with. Over time as more and more people have had them as pets, they have become bred for companionship.
Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix Dog Appearance & Build
Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mixes are strong, muscular dogs that inherit physical traits from both parent breeds.
They typically have the short, dense coat of the Pitbull with the characteristic feathered legs and long ears of the Cocker Spaniel.
Pit Spaniel Mixes are medium to large-sized dogs that can take on the build of either parent. You will usually find the mix with a pitbull build and head but with the long ears of the Cocker spaniel.
Coat Colors & Texture
Cocker Spaniels and Pitbulls both have a single coat of hair which will translate to their offspring.
So expect a Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix to have a single coat of hair that could be any color or combination of colors that either parent breed can have.
The coat may be short like the Pitbulls or medium to long like the Cocker Spaniels. The texture may be straight, wavy, or curly. Generally, the puppies have a blockier face similar to the pitbull with feathered legs and long ears like the Cocker Spaniel.
Since the Cocker Spaniel and Pitbull can have a large variety of coat colors and patterns, so can the Pitbull and Cocker Spaniel mix. Standard coat colors of a Pit Spaniel mix include black, brown, white, brindle, and fawn. They may also have special patterns or combinations of two or more colors.
The Cocker Spaniels can come in many different colors, such as:
- Black
- White
- Liver
- Golden
- Lemon
- Red
- Orange
- Blue
- Tan
- Chocolate
The American Pit Bull Terrier can come in colors such as:
- Black
- Brindle
- Blue
- Fawn
- Sable
- Red
- Tan
Ears & Tail
The Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix will usually have the long, floppy ears of the Cocker Spaniel.
However, they may also inherit the shorter ears of the Pitbull. The tail is usually medium to long and may be straight, curled, or anywhere in between. It’s a rather skinny tail and could also be docked depending on the breeders.
Eyes
The eyes of a Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix may be round, almond-shaped, or somewhere in between.
They can be any color that either parent breed can have. This includes blue, hazel, brown, and green. The eyes may also be two different colors. The most common eye color for the pitbull cocker spaniel mix is dark brown with an almond shape.
Size (Weight & Height)
A Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix full grown is typically 15-20 inches in height and 30-50 pounds in weight.
There will be individual variations in sizes since both parent breeds have a wide range of sizes. The size will also depend on whether the dog takes more from the Cocker Spaniel or the Pitbull parent.
Here is a quick breakdown of the average size ranges for both parent breeds:
- Cocker Spaniel Height: 14 – 15 inches, Weight: 25 – 30 pounds.
- Pitbull Height: 18 – 21 inches, Weight: 30 – 90 pounds.
So, the Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix can be between these ranges. Also, a female dog will fall on the lower end of the weight and height range while the male will fall on the higher end.
Shedding & Grooming
Cocker Spaniels and Pitbulls are low to moderate shedders. They don’t shed excessively but will lose some hair throughout the year.
So, Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mixes will be low to moderated shedders. They will have two shedding seasons each year (during the fall and spring). During these seasons, you will need to brush them more frequently.
The Pit Spaniel mix is low maintenance, but there are some ways to make caring for them that much easier.
To help manage their shedding, brushing them regularly with a de-shedding brush can help. This will remove any loose hair from their coat before it has a chance to end up on your furniture or clothing.
Many dog parents of this mixed breed will use robot vacuums to help stay on top of the minor shedding. As for other grooming care, they require similar maintenance as other dogs regarding bathing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth cleaning.
Are Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mixes Hypoallergenic?
No, Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mixes are not hypoallergenic. They may be low shedders, but they are not considered to be a hypoallergenic dog breed.
No dog is 100% hypoallergenic. There are just dogs that produce less dander (dead skin cells) and shed less hair. This means that they produce fewer allergens and are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction in people.
Lifespan
A Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix’s lifespan is around 12-15 years.
This is above average for most dog breeds and incredibly long compared to other mixed breeds. Of course, the individual lifespan will depend on several factors such as diet, exercise, health conditions, and genetics.
Common Health Issues
No matter how healthy a dog breed, there is always the potential for health problems. The Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix is a relatively healthy dog breed, but there are some health conditions that you should be aware of.
The Pit Spaniel mix will take on most of the health issues their parent’s breeds would pass down in their genes.
Here are some of the most common health concerns for Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mixes:
Hip & Elbow Dysplasia
This is a condition where the hip or elbow joint doesn’t develop properly. It can cause pain, lameness, and arthritis.
Cocker Spaniels and Pitbulls are both prone to this condition. Hence, getting your dog from a reputable breeder who does health testing on their dogs is essential.
Ear Infections
Cocker Spaniels are especially prone to ear infections. And since the Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix has long ears like the Cocker Spaniel, they’re also at risk for this condition.
Ear infections can be caused by allergies, bacteria, or yeast. They can be painful and cause your dog a lot of discomforts.
Kneecap Luxation
This is a condition where the kneecap pops out of place. It can be painful and cause your dog to limp.
Pitbulls are especially prone to this condition, so it’s something to be aware of if you have a Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix.
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes seizures. Cocker Spaniels are prone to this condition, so it’s something to be aware of if you have a Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix.
Skin Allergies
Cocker Spaniels and Pitbulls are both prone to skin allergies. These can be caused by environmental allergens, food allergies, or flea bites.
If your dog is scratching a lot, it could be an allergy. If you’re unsure what’s causing the allergy, it’s best to take them to the vet.
Eye Issues
Cocker Spaniels and Pitbulls are both prone to eye issues. These can include cataracts, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), and cherry eye.
If you notice any changes in your dog’s eyes, it’s best to take them to the vet.
Heart Problems
Cocker Spaniels and Pitbulls are both prone to heart problems. These can include congenital heart defects, valve disease, and arrhythmias. Cocker Spaniels are especially prone to a life-threatening condition called dilated cardiomyopathy.
If you notice any changes in your dog’s heart rate or breathing, it’s best to take them to the vet.
Cancer
Cocker Spaniels and Pitbulls are both prone to cancer. The most common type of cancer in dogs is lymphoma. So the cocker spaniel pitbull mix will also be prone to certain forms of cancer.
This is why vet checks are so important to maintain a dog’s health and prevent any issues.
Hyperthyroidism
Cocker Spaniels are both prone to hyperthyroidism. This is a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much hormone. It can cause weight loss, increased appetite, thirst, and urination.
Trainability & Intelligence
The Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix is an intelligent dog breed. They’re easy to train, and they learn new commands quickly. This mixed breed comes from two breeds that are eager to please their owners.
Parent number one, the cocker spaniel, is known to be intelligent, eager to please their owners, and very easy to train.
Parent number two, the Pitbull, is also relatively easy to train. They can be a bit more stubborn when left to their own devices, but they are eager to please their owners, so they respond well to training.
This is a great breed for first-time dog owners or families with children. They’re also a good choice for active people who want a dog that can keep up with them on hikes or runs.
Activity Level & Exercise Needs
The activity and exercise needs of the Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix will vary depending on the individual dog. Generally, the Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix is a relatively active breed that will need 45 minutes to an hour of physical activity every day.
This could be a walk around the block, playing fetch in the backyard, or going for a run or hike. If you have an especially active dog, they may need more than an hour of exercise daily.
It’s important to make sure your dog gets enough exercise because it helps them stay healthy and prevents behavior problems from developing.
Remember, 45-60 minutes is just a general rule of thumb; some cockerpit dogs will require more.
Temperament & Behavior
Cocker spaniel pitbull mix temperament is a combination of both parents.
They are gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs that make great family pets. They’re also loyal, protective, and brave.
Cocker spaniel pitbull mix dogs are friendly with strangers and get along well with other dogs. However, they can be suspicious of other dogs if they are not properly socialized.
This likely comes from the pitbull parent, who is “less tolerant” of other dogs than most breeds. To give you a better understanding of what to expect from this mix, let’s take a look at the temperament of both parents.
The Cocker Spaniel is a gentle, loving, and affectionate breed that makes a great family pet. They’re also loyal and protective of their family. Cocker Spaniels are friendly with strangers and get along well with other dogs.
The Pitbull is a brave, loyal and protective breed. They’re also friendly with strangers but can be suspicious of other dogs if they are not properly socialized. The Pitbull is a gentle, loving dog that’s great for families.
So regardless of which parent breed the Cockerpit takes after more, this mixed breed is sure to be adored by all.
Do Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mixes Bark A Lot?
The answer to this question is maybe. It really depends on the individual dog and which parent breed they take after more.
Cocker Spaniels are known to be relatively vocal dogs. They are known for barking when someone comes to the door or if they hear something. Pitbulls, on the other hand, are not known to be big barkers.
So if your Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix takes after the Cocker Spaniel parent more, you can expect them to bark more. Conversely, if they take after the Pitbull parent more, then they will likely bark less.
Do Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mixes Like To Cuddle?
Cocker spaniel pitbull mix dogs are known to be affectionate and loving. They enjoy cuddling with their family and will often seek out physical affection. This breed is a great choice for families who want a dog that will show them a lot of love.
Each dog will be different from another when it comes to affection.
Are Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mixes Good With Kids?
The Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix is a great breed for families with children. They are gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs that enjoy cuddling with their family. They’re also loyal, protective, and brave.
Are Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mixes Good With Other Dogs?
The Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix is generally a friendly breed that gets along well with other dogs. However, they can be a bit suspicious of other dogs if they are not properly socialized. This comes from the Pitbull parent, that tends to be “less tolerant” of other dogs.
Are Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mixes Good With Strangers?
The Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix is a friendly breed that gets along well with strangers. The Cockerpit is a friendly, outgoing dog that is eager to meet people. Unfortunately, this also makes them bad guard dogs since they will usually greet people with a wagging tail.
Are Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mixes Good Apartment Dogs?
The Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix is a good breed for apartment living. They are not known to be big barkers and can be relatively quiet dogs. This breed is also relatively medium to low energy, which makes them a good choice for smaller living spaces.
Food & Diet
The best diet for a Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix is one that meets their nutritional needs.
A dog’s food needs will vary depending on age, size, activity, and health. But, generally speaking, 18% of their food should be protein and 8% fat. As for how much, the food you buy will have guidelines that show you how much your pup should eat based on their age and size.
A good quality dry dog food should be the foundation of their diet. You can supplement with wet food, raw food, or homemade meals.
If you’re ever unsure, you should always contact your veterinarian to figure out the best diet for your pooch.
What Is The Price Of Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix Puppies?
The average price for a Cocker Spaniel puppy is $500 – $1500 when purchasing them from a reputable breeder. On the other hand, Pitbulls can be $500 – $5000.
A dog’s price depends on various factors such as breeder experience, coat color and patterns, eye color, bloodline, size, and more.
Expect to pay between $500 – $3000 for a Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix puppy.
Where To Buy A Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix For Sale?
You can find Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix puppies for sale from reputable breeders online. Be sure to do your research to make sure you are getting a healthy puppy from a good breeder with a history.
You can also check your local animal shelters or rescue groups to see if they have any Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mixes available for adoption.
Some good places to start are:
- https://marketplace.akc.org/puppies
- https://puppies.com/
- https://www.keystonepuppies.com/
- https://puppyfinder.com/
There are also forums and Facebook groups dedicated to this specific dog breed, where you can find people selling puppies or adult dogs.
Is The Cocker Spaniel Pitbull Mix Right For Me?
The Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix is a great breed for people looking for a loyal and loving companion. This breed does best in homes with yards where they can run and play. They need daily exercise but don’t require a ton of it. A good walk or romp in the yard will suffice.
This breed is also good for families with children. They are gentle, loving, and very adaptable. However, they will require daily training and effort to keep them from becoming bored and destructive.
However, with time and dedication, this breed has a fun-loving, goofy personality that many people will enjoy.
They don’t shed very much, but they are not hypoallergenic dogs, so if you have allergies, they may not be the mixed breed for you.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix is a unique mix of two fantastic dog breeds. The Pit Spaniel takes great qualities from both parent breeds to create a one-of-a-kind dog.
This breed is not for everyone, but if you think the Cocker Spaniel Pitbull mix is right for you, then be sure to do your research and purchase your puppy from a reputable breeder.
With the proper training, socialization, and exercise, this breed can be one of the best.
Other posts you might find interesting:
Cocker Spaniel Shedding: How To Control It (Grooming Tips)