All about Scottish Cocker dog breed

All You Need to Know About the "Scottish Cocker" Breed (parent breeds: "Cocker Spaniel" × "Scottish Terrier")

The average weight for a Scottish Cocker is typically between 18-25 pounds. Adult Scottish Cocker weight can vary, with males often being slightly heavier than females. A healthy weight for Scottish Cocker will fall within this range, though individual size can be influenced by parent lineage.

Wondering about the Scottish Cocker height? This delightful hybrid, blending the Cocker Spaniel's charm with the Scottish Terrier's distinctive build, typically falls into a small to medium-sized category. When considering the average size, most adult Scottish Cockers will stand between 10 to 14 inches tall at the shoulder.

The Scottish Cocker (Cocker Spaniel × Scottish Terrier mix) exhibits a diverse range of Scottish Cocker colors, blending the coats of its parent breeds. Common and generally accepted colors include black, wheaten, brindle, and tan. These are often seen in various patterns, sometimes solid or with small white markings.Rare coat types and exotic variations, though not typically recognized by major kennel clubs like the AKC for mixed breeds, may include chocolate, sable, and various shades of red or golden. Due to the Cocker Spaniel lineage, you might occasionally see parti-color (white with patches of another color) or even roan patterns, though these are less common in Scottish Terriers.AKC recognized Scottish Cocker colors are not officially designated as the Scottish Cocker is a hybrid breed. However, prospective owners often look for colors common in purebred Cocker Spaniels and Scottish Terriers, such as solid black, wheaten, or brindle.Exotic Scottish Cocker variations like blue, lilac, or merle are highly unlikely and would suggest the presence of other breeds in the lineage, as these colors are not typically found in either parent breed. Such unique colorings are very rare in this particular mix and would not be considered standard. When comparing coat types and pricing, be aware that rarer or more unusual colorations might sometimes command a higher price, but always prioritize the health and temperament of the puppy.

Scottish Cocker Personality & TemperamentThe Scottish Cocker is a delightful hybrid, blending the cheerful nature of the Cocker Spaniel with the spirited charm of the Scottish Terrier. Expect a friendly, loyal, and affectionate companion that thrives on human interaction. These dogs are typically sociable and eager to please, making them a joy to train.Their adaptability makes them suitable for various living situations, including apartment living, provided they receive adequate daily exercise. Scottish Cockers are generally good with children, especially if socialized from a young age, displaying a playful yet gentle demeanor. When it comes to other pets, they can coexist peacefully, particularly with early introductions, though their terrier instincts might occasionally surface with smaller prey animals. Their intelligence and desire to be part of the family make them wonderful, engaging companions.

The Scottish Cocker temperament is a delightful blend of its parent breeds, making for a charming and engaging companion dog behavior. They are generally very friendly and sociable, often eager to please their families. Their loyal nature means they form strong bonds and thrive on human interaction.

Scottish Cocker Care: Your Daily GuideThe Scottish Cocker, a delightful blend of Cocker Spaniel and Scottish Terrier, generally presents as a sturdy, adaptable companion. Understanding their specific care requirements ensures a happy, healthy life.Grooming Needs: Expect moderate grooming. Their coat, varying between the parent breeds, often requires regular brushing (2-3 times weekly) to prevent mats and reduce shedding. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks might be necessary for trims, especially around the ears, paws, and face. Ear cleaning is crucial; check weekly for wax buildup or redness and clean with a vet-approved solution to prevent infections, a common concern given their floppy or semi-erect ears. Dental care is paramount; daily brushing or dental chews are recommended to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease.Exercise Limitations & Activity Level: This is a low-energy dog breed compared to many Spaniels. While they enjoy daily walks and playtime, moderate exercise (30-45 minutes of active play or walks daily) is usually sufficient. They are not built for extensive running or strenuous activities. Avoid overexertion, especially in warm weather.Dietary Considerations: Feed a high-quality commercial dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Monitor portion sizes closely to prevent obesity, as they can be prone to weight gain. Treats should be given in moderation. Consult your vet for specific dietary recommendations.Wrinkle and Ear Cleaning (Specific Focus): While not typically a heavily wrinkled breed, some may inherit slight facial folds. If present, these wrinkles need daily cleaning with a damp cloth to prevent skin irritation and infection. As mentioned, ear cleaning is vital for preventing ear infections due to their ear type.Climate Sensitivity (Brachycephalic Anatomy): The Scottish Cocker generally does not inherit significant brachycephalic traits (shortened snout) that are a concern in some breeds. However, if your individual dog has a shorter snout, they will be sensitive to extreme heat and humidity. Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day and ensure access to plenty of fresh water and shade. Always monitor for signs of overheating like excessive panting or lethargy.Common Health Concerns & Health Tips: Be aware of potential skin issues such as allergies or hot spots, often managed with diet or topical treatments. Dental care prevents periodontal disease. Weight management is key to preventing joint problems and other obesity-related illnesses. Regular veterinary check-ups (annual wellness exams) are essential for early detection and prevention of common health issues. Discuss parasite prevention and vaccinations with your vet.How to care for a Scottish Cocker involves consistent daily maintenance, a balanced diet, appropriate exercise, and proactive health monitoring. These health tips for Scottish Cocker owners will help ensure your furry friend thrives.

Scottish Cocker Activity Level: How active are Scottish Cockers? This charming hybrid balances the playful spirit of the Cocker Spaniel with the more reserved energy of the Scottish Terrier. Generally, Scottish Cockers have a moderate activity level, thriving on a combination of engaging playtime and comfortable rest.

I would rate the "Size" trait of the Scottish Cocker at a 4.This rating reflects the breed's generally compact and sturdy build, inheriting moderate dimensions from both parent breeds. While the Cocker Spaniel can be on the smaller end of medium, and the Scottish Terrier is decidedly small, the Scottish Cocker typically falls into the small to small-medium category. They usually stand between 10-15 inches at the shoulder and weigh 15-25 pounds. Their body structure is often well-muscled and substantial for their size, not delicate. Compared to other companion dogs, they are noticeably larger than toy breeds like Chihuahuas or Yorkies, but significantly smaller than medium breeds like Border Collies or Retrievers. This makes them exceptionally well-suited for apartment living and travel, as they don't require vast amounts of space and can comfortably fit into most living situations and transportation options. They are an excellent choice for households with space constraints who desire a dog with a bit more presence than a true toy breed.

The Scottish Cocker would likely rate around a 7 for grooming requirements. This is because both parent breeds, the Cocker Spaniel and the Scottish Terrier, contribute traits that demand consistent attention. The Cocker Spaniel's long, silky coat is prone to matting and requires daily brushing, regular trimming, and frequent bathing to prevent tangles and maintain its health. They also have floppy ears that need weekly cleaning to prevent infections. The Scottish Terrier, while having a wiry, less mat-prone coat, still requires regular hand-stripping or professional grooming every 6-8 weeks to maintain its characteristic texture and prevent it from becoming overly soft or shedding excessively. The combination of these coats in a Scottish Cocker would likely result in a dog with a medium-to-long, possibly wavy or wiry-to-silky coat that sheds moderately and is highly susceptible to matting if not brushed daily. While they may not have significant skin folds, their ear care will be important due to potential ear infections from floppy ears inherited from the Cocker. Nail trimming will be standard for all breeds, but the coat type will be the primary driver of their moderate-to-high maintenance needs. They wouldn't be extremely high, as they don't have the extreme coat lengths or excessive skin folds of some breeds, but they are far from a wash-and-wear dog and will require frequent, dedicated grooming compared to many short-coated companion dogs.

I would rate the "Exercise Requirements" of the Scottish Cocker at a 7 out of 10.This rating reflects a blend of its parent breeds' exercise needs. The Cocker Spaniel side contributes a moderate to high energy level, a love for activity, and good stamina for sustained movement. They are often keen on retrieving, long walks, and engaging playtime. The Scottish Terrier, while smaller, is also a surprisingly robust and active dog, bred for hunting and with a strong prey drive. They appreciate regular walks and opportunities to explore and "hunt" (even if it's just for a toy in the yard).A Scottish Cocker will not thrive with minimal activity. They are likely to possess a good amount of energy that needs a structured outlet. Daily long walks (at least 45-60 minutes, potentially split into two sessions) will be essential, along with dedicated playtime in a secure area. They would likely excel at and enjoy activities like fetch, exploring new walking routes, and potentially some basic agility or scent work, which would also provide important mental stimulation. Without sufficient exercise, a Scottish Cocker could become bored, destructive, or even prone to weight gain. While not brachycephalic, their terrier lineage means they are built for activity and will require consistent engagement to stay healthy and mentally balanced.

I would rate the "Watchdog Ability" of the "Scottish Cocker" at a 7 out of 10.The Scottish Cocker, being a cross between the generally amiable Cocker Spaniel and the more feisty Scottish Terrier, is likely to possess a meaningful level of watchdog capability. The Scottish Terrier parent brings a strong sense of alertness, a tendency to bark at unfamiliar sights or sounds, and a territorial instinct that can translate into a willingness to deter perceived threats. They are known for their "big dog in a small body" attitude. While the Cocker Spaniel might dilute some of this intensity with its more gentle and people-pleasing nature, it still contributes a good degree of attentiveness and a tendency to bark to alert its family. This combination suggests a dog that will be highly aware of its surroundings and will not hesitate to vocalize its concerns when something is amiss. They are likely to respond to unfamiliar sounds and people with sustained barking, providing excellent early warnings. While they might not be an aggressive deterrent, their persistent vocalizations and confident posture would certainly make an intruder think twice, and effectively alert the household to any unusual activity. They are more than a passive companion and certainly capable of providing meaningful early warnings.

The Scottish Cocker would likely rate around a 7 out of 10 for "Good with Other Dogs."This hybrid brings together two breeds with generally positive, though distinct, social tendencies. The Cocker Spaniel is renowned for its gentle, affectionate, and often quite sociable nature, typically enjoying the company of other dogs and being quite adaptable in multi-dog households. They generally get along well with dogs of various sizes and energy levels, although their playful spirit might be too much for a very sedate senior dog.The Scottish Terrier, while intelligent and loyal, can possess a more independent and sometimes a more assertive or "terrier-like" personality. While not inherently aggressive, they can be less inclined to tolerate boisterous or rude behavior from other dogs and may exhibit a stronger prey drive that could be misinterpreted by smaller or more excitable canines. They can also be more prone to showing dominance if not properly socialized or if they perceive another dog as challenging.Therefore, the Scottish Cocker will likely inherit a blend of these traits. While they are not typically dog-aggressive, their "terrier side" means they might be less universally tolerant than a purebred Cocker Spaniel. They will generally enjoy canine company, especially with proper socialization from a young age, and can thrive in multi-dog households. However, they may require careful introductions to unfamiliar dogs, especially those with very different temperaments or those who lack good social manners. They might also be more inclined to assert themselves if a situation calls for it, and their prey drive could be a factor with very small, fast-moving dogs. Early and consistent socialization, along with positive reinforcement training, will be crucial to ensure they remain polite and well-adjusted around other canines. They're more likely to coexist peacefully with well-mannered dogs rather than tolerating an overly dominant or boisterous individual without some initial friction.

I would rate the "Energetic" trait of the "Scottish Cocker" breed a 7 out of 10.This rating reflects a breed that is generally quite active and playful, but not excessively so, striking a good balance. The Cocker Spaniel parent contributes a significant amount of energy, known for its enthusiastic nature, love of retrieving, and good stamina. They are generally eager to please and enjoy being involved in family activities. The Scottish Terrier, while smaller, is also a spirited and game terrier, bred for hunting small vermin, which instills a level of alertness, determination, and a need for mental and physical engagement. Therefore, the Scottish Cocker will likely inherit a good deal of this vivacity, making them naturally active and requiring regular exercise to prevent boredom and maintain good health. They will enjoy walks, playtime in the yard, and interactive games, and possess the endurance for moderate outdoor activities.However, the rating isn't a 10 because while generally active, they are not typically as intensely high-strung as some pure working breeds or highly driven sporting dogs. They also tend to have a strong companion drive and enjoy downtime with their families.Regarding brachycephalic anatomy, it's important to note that *neither* the Cocker Spaniel nor the Scottish Terrier are typically considered brachycephalic breeds. Both have elongated muzzles that allow for efficient breathing. Therefore, the Scottish Cocker would not inherit brachycephalic characteristics, and its stamina and exercise tolerance would not be negatively impacted by this anatomical feature. This means they are generally capable of more sustained exercise without the respiratory challenges seen in true brachycephalic breeds, contributing to their relatively high energy rating. They are naturally active and playful, without being overly laid-back, and their physical structure supports good exercise tolerance.

I would rate the "Training Requirements" of the Scottish Cocker at a 7.This hybrid breed, while intelligent due to both parent breeds, presents a moderate to high training challenge that might be less suited for complete beginners without the commitment to consistent effort. The Cocker Spaniel brings a generally biddable nature and eagerness to please, making them responsive to positive reinforcement. However, the Scottish Terrier introduces a significant element of independent thinking and stubbornness. This means that while a Scottish Cocker can certainly learn commands and good manners, their attention span might be shorter than a pure Cocker's when something more interesting (to them) is happening, and their responsiveness to commands can be affected by their desire to do their own thing.Consistency is absolutely paramount with a Scottish Cocker. If routines or commands are allowed to slide, their inherent terrier tenacity will likely take over, making it harder to re-establish good habits. Positive reinforcement is highly effective, as they generally enjoy pleasing their owners, but it needs to be delivered consistently and enthusiastically to overcome any moments of "selective hearing." They are not typically a breed that will instantly obey without questioning; instead, they'll weigh up whether it's worth their while, especially if there's a more stimulating alternative. While they can be trained to a high standard, it requires an owner who understands how to be firm, fair, and incredibly patient, someone who can anticipate and manage their independent streaks with structured routines and engaging, consistent training sessions. Therefore, they are not inherently beginner-friendly and would benefit from an owner with at least some prior dog training experience or a strong commitment to enrolling in and attending professional training classes.

I'd rate the Playful trait of the Scottish Cocker at a solid 8. This delightful hybrid inherits a wonderful blend of spiritedness from both parent breeds. The Cocker Spaniel's inherent joy for life, love of games, and eagerness to please shines through, making them naturally inclined towards interactive play. They are typically very responsive to toys, enthusiastically chasing balls and engaging in tug-of-war. This is wonderfully complemented by the Scottish Terrier's plucky and tenacious nature, which, while not always overtly boisterous, translates into a determined and engaged playmate. Scottish Cockers are generally quite active and thrive on having an outlet for their energy, whether it's a brisk walk, a game of fetch, or a good romp in the yard. They tend to be attention-seeking in a charming way, often initiating playtime with a nudge of a toy or an inviting gaze. While not as relentlessly high-energy as some herding or working breeds, they are far from laid-back and possess an enduring, joyful enthusiasm for daily life and all its playful possibilities, making them incredibly fun-loving and engaging companions.

I would rate the Affectionate trait of the Scottish Cocker a 7.5 out of 10.The Scottish Cocker inherits a strong desire for human companionship from both parent breeds, particularly the Cocker Spaniel. They are likely to be very loyal and devoted, forming strong bonds with their families. Owners can expect a good amount of physical closeness, with these dogs enjoying cuddling, lap-sitting, and generally being in the same room as their people. Their sensitivity to owner emotions, a hallmark of the Cocker Spaniel, means they will likely pick up on and respond to their owner's mood. The independent streak of the Scottish Terrier, however, tempers the "extremly loving" aspect slightly, preventing it from reaching a perfect 10. While they will definitely follow family members around and thrive on affection, they might also be content to occasionally entertain themselves, rather than demanding constant attention. They are certainly not emotionally distant and will flourish with consistent affection and interaction, making them a loving, but not overly clingy, companion.

Rating: 7/10The Scottish Cocker, a mix of the generally amiable Cocker Spaniel and the more tenacious Scottish Terrier, inherits a complex blend of traits when it comes to living with other pets. The Cocker Spaniel lineage typically brings a gentle, playful, and generally dog-friendly disposition, often making them adaptable to multi-pet households, including those with cats, especially if introduced young. They tend to have a moderate prey drive. However, the Scottish Terrier influence introduces a more independent, sometimes assertive, and historically vermin-hunting nature. This means they can have a higher prey drive, which might pose a challenge with smaller, fast-moving pets like cats or rodents, though many Scotties coexist peacefully with cats they've grown up with. Resource guarding can be present in both parent breeds if not managed, so early training and consistent supervision are important.While naturally sociable thanks to the Spaniel side, the Scottish Cocker will greatly benefit from early and ongoing socialization to other animals to ensure peaceful coexistence. Their adaptability in multi-pet households is good, but not without potential bumps. They can be very friendly with other dogs, but some may display the terrier's independent streak or a need to be the "boss." With proper introductions, consistent positive reinforcement, and management of any potential prey drive or resource guarding tendencies, a Scottish Cocker can be a very good companion in a multi-pet home, but it's not always an effortlessly perfect fit without some owner effort.

Rating: 7/10The Scottish Cocker, a blend of the affectionate Cocker Spaniel and the spirited Scottish Terrier, typically rates a 7 out of 10 for "Good with Children." This hybrid inherits a generally friendly and playful disposition, making them suitable companions for families with kids. The Cocker Spaniel's influence brings a natural gentleness and a strong desire to be part of the family, contributing to their patience and tolerance for the lively energy children often exhibit. They are usually quite playful and enjoy engaging in games, which can be a great match for active kids.However, the Scottish Terrier side introduces a degree of independent spirit and sometimes a more assertive personality. While generally good-natured, they might have less inherent patience for rough handling or persistent teasing than a pure Cocker Span Spaniel. They are intelligent and trainable, meaning that with proper socialization from a young age and consistent training, they can thrive beautifully in a family setting. Supervision is always recommended with any dog and young children, and teaching children how to interact respectfully with a dog is crucial. They are not naturally aggressive, but their tolerance for high noise levels and constant activity might be slightly lower than some exceptionally placid breeds, requiring both the dog and children to learn boundaries. Overall, they can be wonderfully affectionate and loyal family members who, with the right guidance, can be very good with children.

The "Good with Strangers" trait for the "Scottish Cocker" breed would likely rate around a 6.The Cocker Spaniel parent breed is generally known for its affectionate and people-pleasing nature, often extending a warm welcome to unfamiliar faces. This contributes positively to the Scottish Cocker's potential for friendliness. However, the Scottish Terrier introduces a more reserved and independent, sometimes even wary, temperament. Scottish Terriers are known for their loyalty to their family but can be indifferent or even aloof with strangers, and their guarding instincts, while not extreme, can lead to barking at newcomers.Therefore, the Scottish Cocker inherits a blend. While not inherently aggressive or fearful, they are unlikely to be universally effusive with every new person they meet. They will probably be polite and tolerable, but might take a bit of time to warm up. They are adaptable in public or guest-filled environments as long as they feel secure with their owners, and a well-socialized Scottish Cocker will be comfortable, but they might observe rather than immediately engage. Early and consistent socialization is crucial for this breed to encourage their more outgoing Cocker Spaniel tendencies and prevent any reserved Scottish Terrier traits from developing into shyness or excessive barking towards strangers. Without proper socialization, they could lean towards being more reserved and less welcoming.

I would rate the "Winter" tolerance of the "Scottish Cocker" breed at a 7 out of 10.The Scottish Cocker benefits from the relatively dense, wiry double coat of the Scottish Terrier, which provides good insulation. While not as thick as some true cold-weather breeds, it's significantly more protective than the single coat of many toy breeds. The Cocker Spaniel parentage contributes a softer, medium-length double coat, which, when combined with the Scottie's, likely results in a dog with decent undercoat and weather-resistant outer fur. Their moderate size and generally lean but well-muscled build, typical of terriers and working spaniels, allow for efficient heat generation during activity. Neither parent breed is brachycephalic, meaning their respiratory system is well-suited for breathing cold air without undue strain.However, a rating of 7, rather than higher, acknowledges that while they are resilient, they aren't arctic explorers. Their relatively short legs, particularly if they favor the Scottish Terrier's build, can mean their underbelly is closer to cold ground or snow, and they are not equipped with extremely thick paw pads for prolonged exposure. They can certainly enjoy outdoor activities in cold climates, and are unlikely to suffer from hypothermia during typical walks or playtime, but they aren't designed for extreme, extended sub-zero temperatures without breaks or protective gear.Compared to many other companion dogs, the Scottish Cocker requires less special care during winter months than very small, short-coated, or brachycephalic breeds. However, they are not immune to the cold. In very harsh conditions (e.g., prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures, heavy snow, or icy winds), or for senior or less active individuals, a warm dog coat would be a beneficial addition for walks. Furthermore, paw balm or booties might be necessary to protect their pads from ice, salt, and extremely cold surfaces during longer outings. They are generally robust but should not be left unattended outdoors for extended periods in freezing weather.

I would rate the "Scottish Cocker" at a 5 for summer tolerance. While not as sensitive as a truly brachycephalic breed, this hybrid inherits traits from both the Cocker Spaniel and the Scottish Terrier, neither of which are exceptionally heat-hardy, but also not extremely delicate. The Scottish Terrier's dense, wiry coat, while offering some insulation against heat, can also trap it, and their stocky build isn't ideal for sustained exertion in high temperatures. Cocker Spaniels, with their longer ears and coats, can also be prone to overheating if not managed properly. The Scottish Cocker is unlikely to have significant brachycephalic issues, which is a positive, but their ability to regulate body temperature will still be moderate. They face a moderate risk of heatstroke, especially during vigorous activity or extended exposure to direct sun. Recommended outdoor activity levels should be significantly reduced during the hottest parts of the day, with morning and evening walks preferred. They will likely require climate control during hot weather, such as air conditioning or fans indoors, and access to cool, shaded areas when outside. This breed does require more special care in summer months compared to very heat-tolerant breeds like a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a finely coated sighthound, though less than a Bulldog or Pug.

Rating: 6The "Scottish Cocker" is likely to exhibit a mix of health traits from its parent breeds, the Cocker Spaniel and the Scottish Terrier. While both are generally robust dogs, they do have genetic predispositions to certain health issues. Cocker Spaniels can be prone to ear infections, eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts, and some joint issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia. Scottish Terriers, on the other hand, are known for a higher incidence of certain cancers (especially bladder cancer and mast cell tumors), von Willebrand's disease (a bleeding disorder), and Scottie cramp (a neurological condition). Therefore, a Scottish Cocker could inherit a susceptibility to any of these conditions.Life expectancy for both parent breeds is typically in the 12-15 year range, suggesting a similar lifespan for the cross. Responsible breeding practices, including health screening of parent dogs, would significantly mitigate the risk of inheriting many of these issues. However, without dedicated breed clubs or extensive health research for this specific cross, predicting precise prevalence is difficult. Overall, the Scottish Cocker is likely to be a moderately healthy dog. It's not considered exceptionally fragile, but it's also not free from potential genetic predispositions, meaning it's generally robust but still benefits from attentive preventive care and is not entirely low-maintenance in terms of potential health vigilance.

The Scottish Cocker would likely rate around a 6 for protectiveness. This hybrid inherits a blend of traits that lean more towards being an alert and loyal companion rather than a formidable guard dog. The Cocker Spaniel parent is known for its friendly, gentle nature, and while they are observant, their primary instinct isn't to be aggressive or overtly protective. They are more likely to bark at a stranger out of curiosity or to alert their owners rather than out of territorial aggression.On the other hand, the Scottish Terrier contributes a more tenacious and independent streak. Scotties are known for their courage and can be quite vocal, making them excellent watchdogs. They are naturally wary of strangers and possess a strong sense of loyalty to their family. This means the Scottish Cocker will likely be very alert to new sounds and sights, and will certainly let you know if someone is approaching your home.Therefore, the Scottish Cocker would be an excellent watchdog, effectively alerting you to intruders with persistent barking. They would be very loyal to their owners and might display some territorial barking towards strangers. However, due to the predominant Cocker Spaniel influence, they are unlikely to escalate beyond barking and are not typically physically intimidating or aggressive enough to be considered a true guard dog capable of offering meaningful physical protection in a household setting. Their smaller size also limits their effectiveness in this role. They are primarily a companion dog that offers the added benefit of being a very effective alarm system.

I would rate the "Life Span" trait of the Scottish Cocker a 7 out of 10.This rating places the Scottish Cocker in the average to slightly above-average range for companion dogs. Both parent breeds contribute to this. The Cocker Spaniel generally has a lifespan of 10-14 years, while the Scottish Terrier typically lives 11-13 years. The Scottish Cocker, being a hybrid, often benefits from hybrid vigor, which can sometimes lead to a slightly longer and healthier life than either parent, potentially pushing them towards the upper end of that 10-14 year spectrum. While they can be prone to some health issues common to both parent breeds (such as ear infections and certain cancers from the Cocker Spaniel side, or patellar luxation and certain genetic conditions from the Scottish Terrier), responsible breeding practices that screen for these conditions, combined with proper nutrition, regular exercise, and preventative veterinary care, can significantly contribute to a healthy and fulfilling life. They are not considered exceptionally long-lived like some very small toy breeds, nor are they particularly short-lived like some giant breeds.