In my personal experience, English Cocker Spaniels can be prone to destructive behavior if they are left alone for long periods of time. This is because they are a breed that thrives on companionship and human interaction. They form strong bonds with their owners and become quite attached to them.
If you work all day and are unable to provide constant companionship for your dog, it is highly likely that they will express their unhappiness through destructive chewing and barking. I have witnessed this firsthand with my own English Cocker Spaniel, who would become anxious and agitated when left alone for extended periods.
One of the main reasons for this behavior is that English Cocker Spaniels are intelligent and active dogs. They require mental and physical stimulation to keep them occupied. When they are left alone for long stretches of time, they may become bored and restless, leading to destructive behaviors as a way to alleviate their frustration.
Grooming is another aspect to consider when owning an English Cocker Spaniel. They have a medium-length, dense coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and keep it looking its best. This breed also tends to shed moderately, so regular grooming sessions can help keep their shedding under control.
Additionally, English Cocker Spaniels often have long, droopy ears that can be prone to ear infections. It is important to regularly clean and check their ears to prevent any issues from arising.
If you work all day and are unable to provide constant companionship and stimulation for an English Cocker Spaniel, it may not be the right breed for you. They thrive on human interaction and can become unhappy and exhibit destructive behaviors when left alone for long periods. They also require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy and prevent any potential ear issues.