There has been a high demand for service dogs nowadays. This is because a dog has to undergo a rigorous assessment process to become a service dog. This process is necessary so that the service dogs and their caretakers can successfully navigate everything according to their guidelines. It is not easy for a dog to turn into a service dog. It requires an extensive process of training before the final assessment. The training includes command retrieval, obedience training, bond-based choice teaching. Generally, society does not clearly understand the purpose of service dogs, so they cannot understand the importance of a service dog. When considering dog breeds then Cocker spaniel service dog can be a lifesaver to its caretakers. Its existence can affect the life and death situations of a person.
Characteristics traits of cocker spaniel service dog:
Service dogs are tested individually to look for the traits which they have to perform. Not every dog can become a service animal. There are some common characteristics of service dogs. Like, when service dogs are outside in front of the public, they generally remain calm and composed. Some dogs react strongly to touch by strangers or crowds. Service dogs must be friendly to strange people. The service dogs do not need to be trained much. Dogs with emotional support play a companion role to their owner and should be friendly and well-behaved. Other dogs need to have extensive training and a job to do. Some of them are:
- PTSD service dog
- Seeing-eye dogs
- Hearing-impaired dogs
- Courthouse facility dog
- Seizure-alert dogs
- Search and rescue
- Physical assistance
A dog is exclusive to only one type of service. For example, all dogs have a strong sense of smelling things, but for search and rescue operations, Bloodhounds are used because they ignore other smells and focus only on the target smell.
Let us talk about the Cocker Spaniel breeds. Can a cocker spaniel be a service dog? Cocker Spaniel is a small dog, its size ranging from 20 to 30 pounds. So, it can easily fit into a condo, apartment, or any small home. He plays the role of companion to its owner. It is easy to train him for obedience, agility competitions, fieldwork, or conformation show ring. He is an outstanding therapy dog. One of the most special features of Cocker Spaniels is that they need low maintenance. A Cocker spaniel service dog needs less exercise and grooming. A daily routine walk in the yard is sufficient for him. Frequently brushing his body does not mat his long wavy coat.
Cocker Spaniels are one of the versatile breeds. They are best suitable as service dogs. They give their best as service dog especially for Autistic people, and does not require much training for this purpose. They have the following traits that should be in a service dog.
Cocker Spaniels as service dogs are very social
Cocker Spaniels are one of the friendliest dogs. That’s why they are considered the best breeds for service dogs. They are quite affectionate towards others and mix up with anyone, whether he is an elder or a child. That’s why Cocker Spaniels are perfect for elderly people who require someone to accompany them.
Since Cockers become so close to others, they do not like to stay alone for a longer time and gradually become a good companion to others, They can also accompany a person who is suffering from epilepsy and needs a partner. However, if you find your cocker a little bit unsocial, you might need to follow a short guide to socializing. This will significantly improve their behavior with others.
Cocker Spaniel breeds are sweet and lovely
Cocker Spaniels love to be surrounded by people. They are very sweet and loving. Their presence can calm anyone and, they love it if someone strokes them. Caressing the animals causes oxytocin release in their body, which is the intimacy chemical. This same chemical is released when one person gives a warm hug to a loved one.
They are trainable
Cocker Spaniels, along with being affectionate to others, are also very easy to train. They are very intelligent and learn everything in a short time. These traits are very important for in-service dogs since they must remember various commands. They are very comfortable in getting trained and grasping everything like a sincere student. After being trained a Cocker service dog can handle a lot of tasks.
They are not aggressive.
Cocker Spaniels have a soft heart. They are not aggressive, neither on humans nor on other dogs. This trait makes them deserving of a service dog. When your Cocker Spaniel has an encounter with some other dogs during a walk, you need not be pushing him back or yanking your arm off. This dog, without any reason, never barks at other dogs.
Cocker Spaniels have a calming personality
Some Cocker Spaniels might be a little temperamental. These dogs are not selected to become service dogs. However, you can find out your cocker spaniels changing temperament reasons and take necessary steps. Generally, Cocker Spaniels make people comfortable and calm. Their affection and aura relax people’s minds and give them a sense of tranquility. Cocker spaniel therapy dog works as a heal for people suffering from anxiety, PTSD, depression, and several other mental problems.
Cocker Spaniels are the energetic dogs
Having some energy for a service dog is a good thing. These dogs are like a boon to people having mental health disorders. Such people don’t like to go out of their houses, and Cocker Spaniels act as energetic companions for such people. Walking with an energetic partner like a Cocker Spaniel can help in energizing a person with depression. Walking outdoors and exercising can heal a depressed person and bring him back to his normal senses.
Size of Cocker Spaniels
Cocker Spaniels are not extra-large. They are medium-sized, and this makes it easy to take them anywhere. Even following some air travel guidelines for cockers, you can fly with them. They easily get inside buses or taxis since many people who have service animals don’t drive. They are easy to be kept in apartments and do not take up much space. You need to take them outside every day to burn off some energy, but this is the activity that the owner needs to do.
Cocker Spaniel: The best service dog one can have
These are the reasons why Cocker Spaniel service dogs are the best. They are loving, caring, friendly, and energetic dogs that can bring any depressed person out of his depression. These dogs are like emotional support for their owners and have each quality that a service dog should have.
My Cocker Spaniel service dog of 18 yrs finally crossed the rainbow bridge last year. I have epilepsy and he was purchased for my pet, I am 83. Within 1 years he had the drill figured out. He would get uneasy, panting and pacing. That was his cue for me to know a seizure was on its way. He was totally devoted and 100% accurate. He was perfect in any situation. In Phoenix he had to go thru a test to see how he reacted to certain situations. I was not allowed to be present. He passed with flying colors and they came out laughing. They had dropped his leash as they filled out paperwork. He gathered his leash in his mouth and went to the door waiting. He was a crown jewel. After he passed, I obtained another Cocker puppy a year ago and he is very precocious and smart. His job will be different but already he is interested. VERY ATTENTIVE and happy for the ride. He goes with me now on paratransit and loves meeting everyone but not rambunctious and very gentle. Sadly I hope he outlives me as he is amazing. We always think there will never be another dog like the last… And there isn’t but God gives us another appropriate for TODAY. Thank you Jesus.