Just when we thought the Prince and Princess of Wales couldn’t get any more relatable, along comes a puppy announcement.
During a recent visit to Wales, Kate Middleton casually confirmed that she, Prince William, and their three children have welcomed a new four-legged family member. The lucky pup is an eight-month-old English Cocker Spaniel, now settling into royal life alongside the family’s existing dog, Orla.
And honestly? If you’re going to add chaos to a household with three children and a future king, a cocker spaniel is exactly the sort of chaos you’d expect. Check out the CrazyDogs Cocker Spaniel Breed Guide.
Pickles’ Aside: Royal palace or not, I guarantee someone has already chewed a shoe.
Not Their First Spaniel Rodeo
Orla, the family’s original English Cocker Spaniel, joined the Wales household back in 2020 as a gift from Kate’s brother, James Middleton. Since then, she’s become a quiet celebrity in her own right, popping up in official family photos and charming the nation without saying a word.
Last year, Orla reportedly had a litter of puppies, and while the palace hasn’t officially confirmed it, many believe this new arrival may be one of her pups that simply never left home. Honestly, who could resist?
Pickles’ Aside: Keeping one puppy from a litter is how humans pretend they’re being sensible while still making impulsive decisions.
Why English Cocker Spaniels Are Basically Perfect for Family Life
The Wales family’s choice hasn’t surprised dog people one bit. The English Cocker Spaniel is one of the UK’s most beloved breeds, and for very good reasons.
Let’s break down why they’re such a popular pick, whether you live in a palace or a semi-detached with a muddy garden.
Temperament: Soft, Soppy, and Slightly Silly
English Cockers are famous for being:
- Affectionate to the point of mild obsession
- Brilliant with children
- Friendly with just about everyone they meet
They’re emotionally intelligent dogs who thrive on being part of the family. They want to know what you’re doing, why you’re doing it, and whether it involves snacks.
Owners often joke that cockers don’t just follow you from room to room; they monitor you.
Pickles’ Aside: Privacy? Never heard of it. Especially in the bathroom.
Exercise: Busy Bodies with an Off Switch
Don’t be fooled by their teddy-bear looks. English Cocker Spaniels were bred as working gundogs, and that energy is still very much there.
Most need:
- One to two decent walks a day
- Plenty of sniffing time
- Games, training, or enrichment to keep their brains busy
The good news? Once exercised, they’re usually more than happy to flop down on the sofa and become decorative.
Owners often say they’re the perfect balance of “up for anything” and “excellent nap companion”.
Training: Clever, Sensitive, and Food-Motivated
Cockers are intelligent and eager to please, but they’re also emotionally sensitive. Heavy-handed training doesn’t work well with this breed.
They do best with:
- Positive reinforcement
- Short, fun sessions
- Lots of praise and treats
Many owners describe them as dogs who try very hard to get things right, which makes them incredibly rewarding to train.
Pickles’ Aside: I will do literally anything for chicken, including pretending I understand “stay”.
Grooming: The Price of Looking This Cute
That gorgeous silky coat comes with responsibilities.
Expect:
- Regular brushing, ideally several times a week
- Professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks
- Extra care around ears, which can be prone to infections
Owners often say grooming is the only part of cocker ownership that feels like a chore, but then they look at their dog and forgive everything.
Pickles’ Aside: Yes, I am beautiful. No, I will not stop rolling in mud.
Health: Generally Robust but Not Indestructible
English Cocker Spaniels are usually healthy dogs, but responsible breeding matters.
Common issues can include:
- Ear infections
- Eye conditions
- Hip dysplasia
Most long-term owners recommend choosing breeders who health test and being proactive with ear care from puppyhood.
So… Are They a “Royal” Choice?
Absolutely. But they’re also a very normal choice, which is what makes this story so charming.
English Cocker Spaniels fit beautifully into busy family homes. They’re loving without being aloof, energetic without being overwhelming, and affectionate without being fragile. Whether you live behind palace gates or park your car halfway on the kerb, they adapt surprisingly well.
Pickles’ Aside: If the future King of England can have a cocker spaniel covered in leaves, so can you.
English Cocker Spaniel Breed Stats
- Origin: United Kingdom
- Weight: 12 to 15 kg
- Height: 38 to 43 cm
- Lifespan: 12 to 14 years
- Best Trait: Loving, family-focused nature
- Challenging Trait: Grooming and ear care needs
Pickles’ Aside: Worth it. Even when we smell like wet leaves.
Could a spaniel be the right breed for you? Check out our CrazyDogs breed chooser quiz and find out.