Breed information Guide

Spanador—a delightful mixed breed of the spirited Labrador Retriever and the tender-hearted Cocker Spaniel ( also known as a Cockerdor). A dog that brings the liveliness and loyalty of a Labrador together with the warmth of a Cocker Spaniel. This fur baby isn’t just a pretty face but a true joy-bringer, filling homes with chuckles, affection, and endless memorable moments. With a keen love for water and an unwavering need for affection, this breed isn’t just your everyday pet. They’re watchdogs and loyal companions, always at your side and ensuring everything’s just right in their human world. Spanador may fit snugly in the medium-sized category. Their heart and personalities are truly larger than life! They promise every moment with them is with fun-filled antics and lots of snuggles.

Ready to dive deeper into the Spanador universe? Unravel the mysteries of their character, health needs, playful demands, and so much more. Let the Cockerdor truly win your heart over! 💖

Quick Facts:

• Size: The Spanador is a medium-sized dog.
• Weight: 9-23 kg (approx. 20-50 pounds)
• Height: 46-56 cm (approx. 18-22 inches)
• Lifespan: 12-17 years 
• Families: Spanadors are affectionate and intelligent, making them suitable for families, and those seeking a companion or watchdog.
• Allergies: Do not have a hypoallergenic coat, but regular grooming can help manage potential allergens.
• Appearance: Medium to long silky thick coat may exhibit a variety of colours including tan, white, black, red, and brown.
• Temperament: Known for their affectionate, intelligent, and playful nature. They are energetic but well-behaved animals.
• Other Pets: Generally get along with other pets, especially when properly socialised from a young age.
• Barking: Not specifically known for excessive barking, but like all dogs, can bark to alert owners of visitors or strangers.
• Training: Eager to please, making them relatively easy to train.
• Exercise Required: Regular exercise is essential to keep them healthy and manage their energy levels.
• Owner Requirement: Owners should be prepared for a high-energy pet that requires regular exercise, training, and mental stimulation.
• Grooming: Regular brushing is recommended to manage shedding.
• Health: Generally healthy but should be monitored for common health issues in dogs such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, skin allergies, obesity and gastrointestinal issues.
• Nutrition: A balanced diet is essential for maintaining their health and energy levels.
• Accommodation: Adaptable to various living conditions, but a space for exercise is beneficial.
• Cost: £500-£2000 or more
• Kennel Club Group: Not specifically classified in a kennel club group as it is a mixed breed.

Breed History & Traits:

The tale of the Spanador is like an epic journey through time. The Cocker Spaniel sails to America in 1620 with the Pilgrim Fathers, becoming not just loyal pals but also hunting experts. As time flew, it blossomed into the unique American Cocker Spaniel and got its spotlight in 1873. Then there’s the Labrador Retriever—a star from Newfoundland, Canada. Helping out fishermen, this pup got its ticket to England in 1830. Though it faced a rough patch and almost vanished in the 1880s, it fought back, winning the American Kennel Club’s heart in 1917. And now? It’s rocking roles everywhere and stealing hearts.

Enter the Spanador—a blend of these legends. It’s like inheriting a treasure of friendship and dedication. With the Spanador, you’re not just getting a pet, you’re embracing a grand history of love and service.

Parent Breed	Traits in Spanador
Cocker Spaniel	Friendly, outgoing nature
Labrador Retriever	Loyalty, trainability
Both	Affectionate, intelligent

Temperament and Personality:

Spanadors puppies are like the friendliest buddies on the block! With hearts full of love and tails that never stop wagging, they’re a family’s dream come true. Whether it’s with kids or other furry friends, they’re always up for a cuddle or playtime. And, their smarts combined with their “I-want-to-impress-you” attitude? Well, that makes everything from basic training to playing the role of therapy dogs a total breeze.

Top 5 Personality Traits of the Spanador:

• Friendly and Affectionate:  They’re all about hugs and high-fives. Being the star of your day? That’s the Spanador way!
• Intelligent: With brains to boot, they catch on to tricks and routines quicker than you can say “sit.”
• Eager to Please They love making you smile, so teaching them? It’s more fun than work.
• Playful: Life’s a game, and they’re always ready to play! Especially if kids are involved—they’re like the perfect playdate.
• Loyal: Once a Spanador bonds with you, it’s a forever kind of love. They’re like your loyal sidekick, ready for any adventure!

Appearance and Colours:

Spanadors, they’re like the perfect medium-sized fur buddy, boasting a balanced body. Their build is all about strength—with those beefy legs and wide heads. And their faces, it’s like they’re telling stories with those deep, soulful eyes and the long, draping ears (totally a hat-tip to the Cocker Spaniel). Their coat, Most times, it’s this dense, short blanket that’s super easy to care for. Spanadors come in different colours, with the Black Spanador and Spanador brown being among the most common. The Labradoodle, Cavapoo, Beagador, and Springador are similar breeds that dog lovers might consider. It’s also worth exploring the Lab mix options, such as the Goberian or Labbe.

Common Colours and Patterns:

• Black
• Brown
• Golden
• Red
• Cream
• White

Training:

Guiding a Spanador, It’s like having fun with a quick-witted companion. Their brainy side and excitement to learn make training a treat. And guess what? They love a good pat on the back—so positive vibes work wonders. But, like any dog, they’ve got their challenges check out our post on top training tips for spaniels and cross breeds.

Challenges	Solutions
Stubbornness	Keep it consistent and sprinkle in some positive praise.
Distractions	Start in a calm spot, away from the buzz.
High energy	Make training feel like playtime!
Sensitivity	Go gentle and be patient—it’s all about trust.
Need for socialisation	Get them out and about early on, seeing new faces and places.

Big shout-out to early socialising! Getting young Spanadors to explore varied places, meet diverse people, and hang out with other pets is like giving them a confidence boost. They’ll grow up, not just as happy pups but as fantastic, fun-loving adults. 

Exercise:

Keeping your Spanador on their toes (or paws!) isn’t just about fitness—it’s the key to their joy and stops them from getting those cheeky mischief ideas. Spanadors, Are born entertainers and have energy for days. Think of daily workouts as their happy pill, something they eagerly wait for. And the best part? Mixing it up! Daily walks, a little game time, and maybe a few fun tricks keep them beaming. Ideally, physical activity is about 30 minutes to an hour for their active moments. And if you’re curious about their favourite games, Here’s the Spanador playlist:

• Fetch: Classic and always fun!
• Tug-of-War: A test of strength and excitement.
• Hide and Seek: Their detective skills shine here.
• Agility Training: For those fancy footwork.
• Swimming: Splish-splash adventures.

Ideal Home & Owner:

Contemplating a life with a Spanador? First, see if your home sings the Spanador song. These fluffballs bloom when they’re showered with cuddles, play, and, well, more play. While they have flexible living needs—being just as home in a flat as they would in a house—the secret sauce is ensuring they stretch, play, and explore daily. Got a garden? Bonus points! A park nearby is even better. All in all, with the right dose of love, activity, and a place to call their own, a Spanador can be your perfect furry roommate! 

Other Animals:

Spanadors, they’re like that friendly kid in the playground—usually getting along well with other pets. But like any pup, early play-dates help make sure they’re all buddies, not bullies. These dogs love to play with their canine friends and they’re usually cool with cats too! But, here’s a tip: when introducing your Spanador to a new fur friend, pick a neutral spot. Let them have a sniff and a chat at their own pace. And, of course, be there to cheer them on—making sure it’s all fun and games. Just a heads-up, sometimes Spanadors can get a teensy bit jealous. Make sure every pet feels like they’re the star of the show, and you’ll have a happy furry family!

Size & Weight:

The Spanador full size can vary, but a fully grown Cockerdor can be medium to large. Their lifespan is relatively long, with the lifespan of a Spanador ranging between 12 to 17 years.

• Size: 46-56 cm (approx. 18-22 inches)
• Weight: 9-23 kg (approx. 20-50 pounds)

However, individual growth can vary based on factors like genetics and nutrition.

Grooming & Care:

Spanadors sport those fabulous coats that make them stand out in the doggy crowd. Whether wavy or straight, they love a good grooming session. Think of it as their spa day!

Essential Grooming Tools for Spanadors:

• Slicker brush: Perfect for tackling those tricky knots.
• Comb: Gets into those finer details and makes sure every hair’s in place.
• Nail clippers: To keep those paws looking and feeling neat.
• Doggy shampoo: For those splashy bath times.
• Ear cleaner: Ensuring their ears are all clean and humming.

Common grooming challenges include matting, especially if they’ve been out in wet weather. Regular brushing and occasional trims can help manage this.

Nutrition & Food:

Guiding a Spanador through their dietary journey is a bit like preparing a hearty meal for an active toddler. They’re spirited, so their food should fuel their zest for life. But how do you ensure they get the best? Here’s a simple breakdown:

Comparison of Dog Foods for Spanadors:

Type of Food	Benefits	Potential Drawbacks
Dry kibble	Convenient, long shelf-life, dental benefits	Some may have fillers or additives
Wet food	Tasty, good for hydration	Shorter shelf-life, can be pricier
Raw diet	Natural, can be tailored to individual needs	Requires careful preparation, potential bacterial risks
Homemade	Control over ingredients, tailored to needs	Time-consuming, potential for missing key nutrients

Just as we’d keep an eye on our plate’s balance, it’s vital for our Spanador too! Proper food = less risk of weight issues and other health snags. And remember, always have a bowl of fresh water ready for them.

Health:

Spanadors are generally bundles of joy and health, but, every breed has its moments. Here’s a simple guide to some common health challenges:

Common Health Issues in Spanadors:

• Hip dysplasia: A common issue in many breeds, it affects the hip joint.
• Ear infections: Their floppy ears can trap moisture.
• Allergies: These can be environmental or food-related.
• Eye conditions: Regular checks can help spot issues early.

Having regular chit-chats (check-ups) with the vet, ensuring they munch on balanced meals, and letting them stretch those legs can ensure your Spanador is always wagging its tail in joy! 

Insurance: 

Caring for a Spanador, much like any furry friend, comes with its set of responsibilities—and yes, that includes the financial side of things. One big piece of the puzzle is thinking about vet bills that might pop up. Check out our post on top UK pet insurance providers and different insurance cover.

Opting for insurance is like having a safety net; it’s there to catch you, ensuring you’re all set to provide top-notch care for your Spanador, without the heavy burden of unexpected costs. It’s like making sure you can give your pup the royal treatment, without the royal headache of hefty bills.

Buying & Breeders: 

When it comes to buying Spanador puppies for sale, it’s crucial to be well-informed. While various regions, including Spanador puppies Melbourne and Spanador puppies for sale NSW, offer these puppies, it’s essential to identify trusted Spanador breeders. 

Are you looking for Spanador puppies for sale near me? Begin by searching for reputable Spanador breeders UK or Spanador breeders United States, depending on your location. When it comes to cost, the Spanador price can vary based on various factors, including the breeder’s reputation and location. Buying a Spanadors requires a bit of homework and thoughtful consideration. It’s absolutely essential to pick breeders who really put their heart and soul into the well-being of their dogs. 

Take a trip to visit them, ask about how they raise their pups, and get to know the puppy’s furry parents. This helps you see the love and care that goes into each puppy and boosts your confidence in your choice. A Spanador from a dedicated breeder is more likely to be a bundle of joy and health. This promises a companionship filled with happy tail wags.

Rescue & Re-homing:

On the flip side, adoption is a beautiful path to finding your Spanador soulmate. Many of these dogs in rescue centres are just waiting for a second shot at love and a forever home. Choosing to adopt is like opening your heart and home. This creates a bond that’s nothing short of special. It’s an act of love that goes both ways, filling your life with joy and giving a deserving Spanador a fresh start.

Exploring Other Cocker Spaniel Mixes:

The Cocker Spaniel has been mixed with various breeds, resulting in hybrids like the Cocker Spaniel cross Beagle, Cocker Spaniel retriever mix, Cocker Spaniel hound mix, and the Cocker Spaniel or Labrador cross. Each mix has its own set of characteristics and temperaments that potential dog owners should consider, we have more information on the most popular spaniel cross breeds.

Conclusion:

Really getting to know the Spanador breed is a must for any future pet parent. They’re a ball of love and energy, making your every day brighter. But, don’t forget, they also need your care in grooming, health, and training. Seeking advice from breed clubs, reputable breeders, and trusted websites can be a game changer for them and of course for you. Having a Spanador is a journey filled with giggles, cuddles, and a few learning curves—it’s all worth it for the love of a Spanador.