Foxker

The Foxker is a cross between the Cocker Spaniel and the Fox Terrier. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a Foxker. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.

Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel is the smallest member of the American Kennel Club's Sporting Group, presenting a sturdy, compact body with elegant proportions. Males typically stand fourteen and a half to fifteen and a half inches tall at the shoulder, while females measure thirteen and a half to fourteen and a half inches, with both sexes weighing between twenty and thirty pounds. The breed possesses a cleanly chiseled and refined head that balances well with the overall body structure. The topline slopes slightly from strong shoulders toward moderately bent, muscular hindquarters, creating a silhouette that suggests both athleticism and grace. The dog stands well up at the shoulder on straight forelegs, projecting an image of capability and soundness. The head is perhaps the Cocker Spaniel's most distinctive feature, with a rounded skull, broad square muzzle, and large, expressive dark eyes that give the breed its characteristic soulful expression. The eyes are round and full, looking directly forward, with slightly almond-shaped eye rims that enhance their appealing appearance. The ears are long, low-set, and covered with luxurious feathering, lying close to the head in a lobular shape that frames the face beautifully. The expression conveys intelligence, alertness, and a soft, appealing quality that has endeared the breed to generations of owners. The muzzle is broad and deep with square, even jaws. The Cocker Spaniel's coat is silky, flat or slightly wavy, with a texture that permits easy care despite its length. Medium-length on the body with enough undercoating for protection, the coat features extensive feathering on the ears, chest, abdomen, and legs that adds to the breed's elegant appearance without being so excessive as to interfere with movement or function. Coat colors include solid black, any solid color other than black (ASCOB) ranging from cream to dark red including brown and brown with tan points, and parti-color combinations featuring two or more solid colors. All colors are equally acceptable, and the overall impression should be of a well-balanced, free-moving sporting dog.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Cocker Spaniels are generally friendly toward strangers, other dogs, and other pets when properly socialized from an early age. They interact well with children of all ages, displaying patience and gentleness that makes them ideal playmates. However, some lines may exhibit shyness or timidity without adequate socialization, underscoring the importance of early exposure to varied people, places, and experiences. The breed can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods, as they bond deeply with their families and prefer constant companionship. Their combination of devotion, playfulness, and gentle nature makes them consistently popular choices for families seeking an affectionate, responsive companion.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Autoimmune disorders occur in Cocker Spaniels more frequently than in many other breeds, with autoimmune hemolytic anemia being particularly concerning. This condition causes the immune system to attack the body's own red blood cells, leading to potentially life-threatening anemia. Allergies and atopy manifest as chronic skin irritation, ear infections, and gastrointestinal upset in affected dogs. Epilepsy, intervertebral disc disease, and kidney disease have also been documented in the breed. Additionally, Cocker Spaniels have a tendency toward obesity if diet and exercise are not carefully managed. With comprehensive health screening, regular veterinary care, and attention to breed-specific concerns, Cocker Spaniels typically enjoy a lifespan of ten to fourteen years.
Learn More About The Cocker Spaniel

Fox Terrier

Fox Terrier

The Fox Terrier is a small to medium-sized breed with a compact, athletic build designed for agility and stamina. Standing approximately fourteen to fifteen and a half inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between fifteen and nineteen pounds, the breed presents a well-balanced, muscular appearance without appearing coarse or unwieldy. The body is short-backed with a deep chest that provides ample lung capacity for the breed's original hunting work. The legs are straight and strong, set moderately wide apart, providing a solid foundation for quick movement and sudden direction changes. The overall impression is of a nimble, swift dog capable of considerable speed and endurance. The Fox Terrier exists in two coat varieties: Smooth and Wire. The Smooth Fox Terrier possesses a short, dense, flat coat that lies close to the body and provides protection from the elements. The Wire Fox Terrier features a dense, wiry double coat with a slightly wavy outer layer that should never appear curly. The Wire variety requires regular hand-stripping to maintain proper coat texture, while the Smooth variety needs only regular brushing to manage moderate shedding. Both varieties share the same body structure and temperament, differing primarily in their coat characteristics. The predominant coat color for both varieties is white, with markings of black, tan, or black and tan distributed across the body. The head is distinctively shaped, appearing V-shaped or wedge-like when viewed from above, with a flat, moderately narrow skull and minimal stop. The muzzle gradually tapers from eye to nose, creating a chiseled appearance. The eyes are small, dark, and oval-shaped, conveying an expression of intelligence and alertness. The ears are small and V-shaped, folding forward close to the cheeks and dropping toward the temples. The tail is traditionally docked and carried erect, adding to the breed's alert, spirited appearance. The overall expression is keen and eager, reflecting the breed's lively, inquisitive nature.

Key Characteristics

Temperament
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Training Fox Terriers requires patience and consistency, as they can be independent and occasionally stubborn despite their intelligence. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods and enjoy activities that challenge them mentally and physically. Barking and digging are natural behaviors that require management through training and appropriate outlets for their energy. The breed excels in dog sports including agility, earthdog trials, and flyball, which provide constructive channels for their athletic abilities and hunting instincts. Without adequate exercise and mental stimulation, Fox Terriers may develop destructive behaviors or excessive barking. They adapt well to various living situations but require active owners committed to providing daily exercise and engagement.
Health Considerations
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations The breed may experience various eye conditions including cataracts and glaucoma, as well as allergies that manifest as skin irritation or gastrointestinal upset. Deafness has been reported in some Fox Terriers, particularly those with predominantly white coloring. Heart conditions including mitral valve disease can develop, especially in older dogs. Wire Fox Terriers specifically may be predisposed to degenerative myelopathy, a progressive spinal cord condition. Demodicosis, a skin condition caused by mites, occasionally affects the breed. With appropriate health screening, regular veterinary care, and a healthy lifestyle, Fox Terriers typically enjoy a lifespan of twelve to fifteen years.
Learn More About The Fox Terrier

Important to Remember

Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your Foxker may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the Cocker Spaniel and Fox Terrier to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.