Cocker spaniel pups?

[mushypea]

We have a 8 yr old labrador so are used to dogs that need plenty of excersize. Ive always wanted a spaniel and we are thinking about getting a cocker spaniel, I would prefer to adopt but think a puppy would be best so we can bring him or her up with our other animals so she oe he accepts them, we have 8 guunea pigs, 8 rescue bunnies that live in a group in a fenced off area of the garden, 2 indoor bunnies also rescues and 2 cats, or lab gets in well with all of them and our undoor buns groom him sometimes lol.

So my questiins are

1. Can a spaniel lear to live with rabbits with careful introduction

2. How long can a cocker be left alone for.

3.I work shifts and the longest alone time would be 7 hrs so am considering a dog walker as ive read they dont like to be alone too long although my lab would be company, would this work?

4.is 2hrs of walkingvavday enough along with play time. Walks may be split in to several short ones depending on my shifts

sorry for all the questions. Oh and hello everyone

 

[greendogwalking]

Hi!

That's a tricky one! I would always recommend adopting a rescue dog if you can as there are so many out there that need homes and with the right training you could help them adapt to your household very quickly. Having said that, the easier option would be to get a puppy, especially as you may be limited with time like you said.

Two hours of walking per day is a healthy amount for both Labradors and Cocker Spaniels, as long as they get enough exercise during the walks. It might be a good idea to get a dog walker for the days where they'll be alone for up to 7 hours though just to break it up a bit for them.

I wish you the best of luck whichever decision you go for!