The Cocker Spaniel, also known as the American
Cocker Spaniel, originated from cautious reproduction of the
English Cocker Spaniels in the United States.
The name "Cocker" comes from the game bird
named woodcock. These spaniels were used to flush these game birds
which they did particularly well. Recently these Cocker Spaniels
are mostly found in dog shows and as family pets. They also serve
admirably as retrievers, hunters, and agility and tracking dog
athletes. They have above average intelligence in the dog world.
Cocker Spaniels are an all around great dog with a happy and loyal
demeanor. Socialization at an early is a positive thing as they
tend to be a little shy if they are not socialized. Like many dogs
they pick up the emotions of their humans and strangely enough are
not all that fond of grumpy people. They do have a high energy
level so if you are not prepared to active with your dog this
might not be the breed for. They respond well to various types of
training and are generally good with children.
Great Info
Alternative names: Cocker Spaniel / American
Cocker Spaniel
Country of origin: England; the American Cocker Spaniel is smaller
than the English Cocker Spaniel and has a different conformation.
Both types make good pets.
Appearance: Compact, with a short back
Power: the usual weight is 15-30 pounds (7-14 kg.)
Stature: the usual height is 15 ½ inches (38cm.)
Coat: Profuse, silky, feathered, medium-length
Color: Buff, black, and other solid colors, black-and-tan, or
parti-colored variations of these
Head: Rounded head chiseled with an abrupt stop
Teeth: Strong teeth causing a scissor bite
Eyes: Rounded and straightforward
Ears: Very long hanging ears
Tail: Usually docked
Limbs: Parallel, straight, strong
Feet: Compact, large, round and firm with horny pads
Life span: About 12 years
Temperament
Bold and keen to work. The American Cocker
Spaniel is equally suited to both as a gundog or as a household
pet. They are cheerful, sweet, and sensitive in nature. There is a
Cocker Spaniel named Buddy that goes to our dog park and he is
just the happiest little dog and he does not have a mean bone in
his body. There is not a single moment at the park that his tail
is not going a mile a minute. Cocker Spaniels respond to training
and are eager to please their master.
Health Challenges
The Main concerns in American Cocker
Spaniels are:
Eye Problems including glaucoma and
cataracts
Hip dysplasia
IMHA or Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia
Remedy
Adequate daily exercise is important as they
have a lot of stamina. A walk in the morning and the evening is
adequate and you can mix it up with a trip to the dog park for a
game of fetch. They have a good bit on energy so this is kind of
important and a lot of speed. Playing a game of fetch with a Chuck
it Tennis Ball thrower is a fantastic way to bleed off some of
this energy.
Famous Cockers
Ch. My Own Brucie, won two Westminster
Kennel Club Dog Shows in 1940, 1941.
Checkers owned by Pat Nixon and Richard Nixon
Lucky Bundy from Married... with Children
Solomon and Sophie, pets of Oprah Winfrey
Lady from Lady and the Tramp
The original Coppertone ad.
Cosby and Sophie, beloved Cockers of HRH A.E. Rose
Whitey Hoover appearing in several Tim Hortons testimonials
