The Cocker family is one of the oldest land hunting dogs. As early as 1386, there was mention of ‘Spanyell’, which were divided into two categories: land hunting dogs and water hunting dogs. Based on size, Cocker and small or toy hunting dogs were categorized among land hunting dogs.

　By the 19th century, the development path of ‘Cocker’ began to diverge: firstly, the Sussex hound, field hound, and Cocker dogs, which are usually black in color, branched out from field dogs or Cocker, and their purpose remained hunting; secondly, the Malboro (hunting dogs incorporating Eastern bloodlines were bred into round-headed, short-nosed English toy hunting dogs, which became genuine pet dogs. This second division was entirely due to differences in purpose.

　The English Cocker Spaniel was bred from dogs of different sizes, types, colors, and hunting abilities. Before the 17th century, Cocker dogs, regardless of their height, length, weight, and speed, were collectively referred to as Spanish hunting dogs. Later, hunters gradually noticed their differences; larger dogs could hunt larger animals, while smaller ones could hunt woodcock. Thus, various different names emerged: Springer, also known as the Flushing Spaniel, and Cocker (Woodcock Dog).

　It was not until 1892 that the English Cocker Spaniel and Springer were recognized as two distinct breeds by the Kennel Club (KC). Before the 17th century, this type of dog, regardless of size, body length, or pace, was referred to as a hunting dog. The significant size differences in hunting purposes began to gradually draw the attention of hunters; larger dogs could quickly flush game, while smaller ones could be used for hunting woodcock, leading to the names Springer Spaniel and Cocker Spaniel or Woodcock Dog.

　In 1892, the Kennel Club finally recognized them as two independent breeds. This Cocker hunting dog is the English Cocker Spaniel. It should be noted that for a period before and after the official recognition of them as independent breeds, both Springer and Cocker were kept in the same kennel. The differences in size made them independent breeds, but they share the same genetics, coat colors, hunting skills, and external appearances.

　Cocker dogs and Springer dogs developed simultaneously. It is precisely because the English Cocker Spaniel naturally contains the genetics of the Springer Spaniel that it ultimately became the most refined small hunting dog.