The American Cocker spaniel is a variation of the Cocker, sometimes called English Cocker, Spaniel. The Cocker Spaniel was brought to America from England and selectively bred.
At one time the English and American Cocker Spaniels were considered the same breed.
Later, it was decided that they should be considered two separate breeds after it was established that the American Cocker Spaniel was smaller and of a different conformation from the Cocker Spaniel.
The American Cocker Spaniel was bred as a bird dog, and the name Cocker comes from the Woodcock. This is a bird that Spaniels are quite good at flushing out.
Though the Cocker Spaniel was originally bred as a hunting dog, they are primarily used as family pets and as a show dogs.
However, they are also used today for hunting, agility, service, and therapy dogs as well as tracking.
Description - Breed Standards
The American Cocker Spaniel is a little bit different from its English cousin in appearance.
The American version is smaller in size and lacks the Setter-like face.
The headpiece is usually the most stunning feature of the dog. Its ears should be long, hanging, and feathered.
Head should be rounded but chiseled to an abrupt stop.
The muzzle and jaw are the shape of a square.
The upper lip hangs down completely covering the lower jaw.
The teeth should meet in a scissors bite.
The color of a Cocker Spaniel's nose depends on the color of the dog.
In black dogs, it must always be black, but can come in brown as well in other colors.
The eyes are round and usually dark.
The Cocker sports a short back and compact package.
The topline should gently slope from front to back.
The front legs should be straight, and all dewclaws should be removed.
The coat should be silky and long if it is not cut.
Show dogs must wear their hair long, but many owners find a short haircut to be easier to maintain for pet dogs.
Field or working lines usually have shorter coats than show lines.
The coat color combinations include black, buff, parti-color, black and tan, and several other solid colors.
The tail should be docked to ⅖ of the original length.
The dog should have a happy appearance with a constantly wagging tail.
The American Cocker Spaniel stands 14 to 15 inches tall and weighs 15-30 pounds.
Temperament
The American Cocker Spaniel is a hunting dog and will be happy dashing through the fields after birds, but just as happy curled up by the fire.
As with most breeds that have working and show lines, the working line is usually more active and driven towards the dog's original function.
The Cocker is a very bold and alert dog that is very eager to work.
American Cocker Spaniels are usually cheerful dogs, but one should look at the dog's family line before purchasing a puppy.
If a breeder can't give you a background or won't let you meet at least one of the dog's parents, don't buy a puppy.
Poorly bred dogs can have a disorder known as Rage Syndrome (more common in English Cockers) in which the dog becomes aggressive and flies into an uncontrollable rage for little to no reason.
If the dog is from a shelter, observe its temperament.
Cockers are normally obedient and easy to train with obedience training. Though some dogs may be difficult to house train and might like to hear themselves bark, they usually are eager to please.
Socialization is a must as early as possible to prevent the dog from becoming too shy.
These gentle and trusting dogs are usually good companions for children.
They make decent watchdogs but are friendly with strangers and probably won't physically defend the yard unless provoked.
As I stated before, one must be careful in selecting the dog, as I have listed the qualities of a properly bred dog.
Some dogs are not as fortunate and have been bred in puppy mills, as they are a popular breed.
These puppy mill dogs may have poor temperaments and problems socializing.
Physical Needs
The American Cocker Spaniel is a dog that has been overbred due to the popularity of the breed.
This has led to inbreeding, and some of the dogs may have health problems.
Some of those concerns are ear and eye problems like cataracts and glaucoma, ear infections, slipped kneecaps, heart problems, orthopedic problems, and IMHA, an immune disease that is nearly always fatal.
The eyes and ears of the Cocker require regular grooming to keep them free of infections, especially the ear canals..
Long coats require daily and/or frequent brushing to avoid tangles, being careful not to pull the hair.
Bathing should be done frequently because long coats get dirty easily.
The Cocker is an average shedder.
This breed has an average of five puppies per litter and has a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
Cockers are a popular dog breed and make good dogs for people who live in apartments or only have a small yard.
They are relatively active indoors but will do alright if they receive daily walks and/or enough exercise.
Leona. Dingess says
We have a cocker spaniel named Cashew he has yet to meet a stranger,he acts like he loves everyone,he doesn't bark that much and is a smart dog,,I'd advise parents to get your kids a cocker Spaniel if you're looking for a pet.
Bobbi says
We are in our late sixties and just bought our little Pepper. She is an adorable 5 month old female. She is a red merle. She is learning very well all except potty training. She came from an Amish breeder and lived in a barn with doggie doors. She went in and out as she pleased. We’ve had her 10 days and so far more going potty inside the house than outside. We feed her twice a day and then take her outside. She’s starting to urinate more outside but poos inside. Any tips?
Molly says
Bobbi, I would recommend crate training. It is the fastest and easiest way. I will leave a couple of links that may be of help 🙂
https://missmollysays.com/crate-training-your-new-puppy/
https://missmollysays.com/dog-training-the-crate-and-positive-reinforcement/
Good luck!
Mb says
What's the difference between working and show, appearance wise?
Dana Rodriguez says
I have never owned a American Cocker Spaniel. They are really pretty dogs.
LeAnn Harbert says
I used to have cocker spaniels before. They were the sweetest dogs.
Shelley P says
I love this breed! Great information! They do make great family pets. I have owned a few and hope to own another in the future 🙂
Debbie P says
They are sooo cute! Thanks for the great article.
Jeanine Bevacqua says
I had a black cocker spaniel as a child. Blackie was the first pet I remember having. He was a wonderful dog and he was my companion- something my parents came to appreciate since I tended to wander and he would always accompany me on my adventures. All they had to do was call Blackie and watch which direction he came from.
Shannon Holmes says
Thanks for sharing this article with us, my aunt used to have one of these dogs.