American Cocker Spaniels - Breed Introduction

Although Cocker Spaniels have a strong drive to work, their hunting instincts are not often put to the test by hunters these days, though they can be trained to flush and retrieve.

Cocker Spaniels can also compete in agility, obedience, and flyball competitions. However, the primary purpose of  this warm, engaging breed is to provide gentle companionship.

The Cocker Spaniel averages 14 to 16 inches (34 to 41 centimeters) in height, and weighs about 25 to 30 pounds (11 to 14 kilometers).

History of Breed

Cocker Spaniels were developed in the United States in the late 1800s from early imports of the English Cocker Spaniel, a relative whose appearance they resemble quite closely. There is some speculation that breeding may have included crosses with smaller toy spaniels as well.

American hunters wanted a slightly smaller dog that would be suitable for hunting game and other small birds, and the American Cocker Spaniel is the smallest of the hunting dogs.

The name “Cocker” comes from the word “woodcock,” which is a type of game bird that the breed was particularly good at hunting. The American Kennel Club (AKC) didn’t make a distinction between the American and English versions of the Cocker Spaniel until 1935. Popularity of the American breed increased thereafter.

The American Cocker Spaniel was recognized by the English Kennel Club in 1968. Other countries, including those of Central and South America and Japan, have developed an appreciation for the breed as well.

Color and Coat

This breed is available in a wide range of solid colors and color combinations. The American Cocker Spaniel may be a solid black, buff, red, or chocolate; black and tan, black red, or chocolate with white; or tri-color.

They are double-coated. The undercoat is dense, and the outer coat is medium-long, slightly wavy, and silky in texture. Cocker Spaniels feature feathering on the ears, chest, underside, and legs.

Personality and Temperament

Cocker Spaniels are lively, curious, playful, and, occasionally, stubborn, though overall they have a very sunny disposition. The breed is sometimes referred to as “the merry Cocker.” Cocker Spaniels love to be in the company of people and have a strong desire to please their masters.

These dogs can be timid, so early socialization to overcome this tendency is recommended. While by no means aggressive, some tend to bark a lot which may be beneficial in alerting their owners to anything that may be amiss, but they shouldn’t be counted on to be reliable watchdogs.

Cocker Spaniels are intelligent and fairly easy to train, though housebreaking may take a little more time and effort than other types of training. They are sensitive souls, so training should be gentle and never harsh.Cocker Spaniels need a moderate amount of exercise and daily walks.

Cocker Spaniels are generally good with children, but one way to check for  this characteristic is to check out the pup’s parents. They should not be timid or snappy. They are typically friendly toward other household pets.

The Cocker Spaniel is an indoor dog, but does best in a suburban or rural environment. They are not only good dogs for families, but they make excellent companions for the elderly as well, as long as someone is available to walk them.

Cocker Spaniels do best with loving, sensitive owners, who don’t mind accommodating their grooming needs.

Show Characteristics

Cocker Spaniels are compact, sturdy, and square in shape. The top of the head is rounded with a clearly defined stop. The upper lip hangs down to cover the lower jaw, giving it a square appearance, and the muzzle is deep and broad. The nose is black or brown.

The teeth should be strong and meet in a scissors bite. The eyes are dark brown and almond-shaped, and are highlighted by thick eyebrows. The eyes have a soft and appealing expression. The drop ears are long and are covered in long, feathery hair, that may be a challenge to keep tidy. The tail is usually docked.

Typical Health Concerns

Unfortunately, the breed may suffer from a range of medical problems, including epilepsy, autoimmune diseases, skin conditions, and cataracts.

Unfortunately, some unscrupulous breeders and puppy mills have been known to produce dogs with serious behavioral problems, such as nervousness and excessive wariness, that may be problematic for the families who adopt them, so extra care should be taken in selecting a breeder.

Grooming

Caring for the coat of the Cocker Spaniel is a time-consuming task. If the dog is not intended for the show ring, the easiest alternative is to clip the coat short.

If unclipped, it must be brushed or combed at least three times a week, and preferably daily, at home to prevent debris from becoming entangled in the dog’s long hair, and professional clipping and scissoring every two to three months is recommended as well.

The Cocker Spaniel should be bathed as necessary, and the ears should be cleaned frequently. Shedding is moderate.

Country of Origin

The American Cocker Spaniel originated in the United States.

Average Life Span

The life expectancy of the Cocker Spaniel is 10 to 14 years.