Breed-Specific Advice

What your Legacyk GSP or Cocker really needs to feel balanced, focused, and fulfilled

Every dog is different—but breeds have needs. A German Shorthaired Pointer isn’t a Golden Retriever. And a Working English Cocker Spaniel isn’t just a smaller version of one. These dogs were built to move, think, work, and connect—and when you meet those needs early and consistently, you’ll have a dog that’s as steady in the home as they are driven in the field.

Here’s our honest, experience-based advice for raising these breeds the right way.

1. Energy Is a Gift—If You Channel It

GSPs and Cockers are high-drive dogs bred to do a job. That doesn’t mean they need constant entertainment—but it does mean they won’t be happy just lounging all day.

What works best:

• 2–3 structured energy outlets per day (walks, training, field play)

• Nose work or scent games indoors when weather’s bad

• Simple tasks like “place,” recall games, or leash walking with direction changes

• Safe off-leash runs once recall is reliable

A tired dog isn’t just a calm dog—they’re a dog less likely to chew, whine, dig, or push limits.

2. Teach the Off Switch Early

Just because your puppy can go all day doesn’t mean they should. Teaching your Legacyk pup when to wind down is one of the most valuable skills you’ll build—and it starts young.

Try this:

• Enforce calm nap times in the crate, even if they aren’t tired yet

• Use the “place” command (dog bed or mat) to teach stillness during meals or downtime

• Reward calm, not just excitement—especially during greetings

Dogs with balance in drive and rest will be easier to live with, easier to travel with, and easier to take into high-energy environments without losing control.

3. Grooming: What’s Needed and What’s Not

GSPs:

Low maintenance, but don’t skip the basics. Weekly brushing with a rubber mitt keeps their coat healthy and reduces shedding. Wipe ears regularly, and keep nails trimmed—especially with how active they are.

Cockers:

Higher maintenance. Regular brushing (2–3x a week), ear cleaning, and monthly trimming around the paws, hocks, and tail are needed to avoid matting. A full groom every 6–8 weeks keeps them looking sharp and comfortable.

We recommend introducing grooming tools and touch handling as early as possible—your vet and groomer will thank you.

4. Crate Size and Setup

German Shorthaired Pointers:

Start with a 42” crate with a divider. They’ll grow quickly, and having the full size available later helps them stretch out while still feeling secure.

Working English Cockers:

Use a 30–36” crate depending on their size. They like cozy spaces, so smaller often feels safer—especially during the early months.

Always include a mat or towel (not a full bed until they’re past the chewing phase), and keep crates in a quiet area without too much foot traffic.

5. Food & Fuel

Both breeds do best on high-quality kibble that supports joint health and digestion. We don’t recommend grain-free unless medically necessary. Look for formulas with:

• Moderate to high protein (25–30%)

• Added omega-3s (for skin, coat, and brain development)

• DHA (especially important for growing puppies)

• No artificial fillers or food dyes

Feed 3x a day until 4–5 months of age, then shift to 2x daily. Avoid free-feeding. Pups need structured mealtimes just like everything else.

Final Thoughts

There’s no one-size-fits-all formula for raising great dogs—but understanding your breed gives you a huge head start. Legacyk dogs are built to be bold, biddable, and balanced. When you meet their specific needs with structure, patience, and clarity, they’ll give you everything they’ve got—and more.

Questions about daily routines, food recommendations, or gear for your GSP or Cocker?

We’re always here to help.

Text us at 517-403-2419.