The history of the Cocker Spaniel as a hunting dog of long standing is pretty well out of the picture as far as the utility of the dog in today’s modern world. The English cocker has retained much more of the qualities of a hunting breed, while the American Cocker, having gained great popularity in the 60s and 70s, has gone the way of many “overbred” dogs, losing in the process some of the instinctive behaviors for which it was bred.

Most probably the small size of this dog led to its demise, for it was and is an “easy breeder” and thus a popular dog for commercial breeding purposes, easy to keep and proliferate for producing puppies.

Unfortunately the offspring of dogs who do well as breeding dogs in commercial puppy farms often lose even more than instinctive qualities, they usually lose a certain amount of temperament and good health. More often than not, a commercial breeder is not inclined to spend money on genetic testing for health problems, nor worry overly about the temperament of the animals he is breeding. In some years, the American Cocker Spaniel has even been high on the list of the dogs who are considered aggressive and are the dogs reported as the “biters” in dog aggression incidents.

This is a little dog that needs training like any other dog and needs to recognize who is the alpha figure in the family. He is normally a very happy go lucky little dog, however because of his size it is often overlooked that he can be stubborn and needs to be trained early to accept his place in the household. The Cocker Spaniel is a popular pet. His coat requires care and those folks who purchase a Cocker Spaniel puppy soon learn that it does take regular grooming. The coats of Cockers are long, silky and mat easily. Often the best solution for busy owners is to take the dog to a groomer.

The Cocker Spaniel is a breed that is represented by three separate varieties in the Sporting Group at American Kennel Club shows. The three varieties are the “Parti” (black and white or combinations of two colors ), the “ASCOB” (Any solid Color Other Than black) and “Black” (solid black with tan points allowed). He is the smallest member of the Sporting Group and may be 15 inches at the withers for a male, 14 for a female. The Cocker Spaniel has an expression that is “perpetually a puppy” and is a popular dog when he makes his appearance in the Show Ring.

The little dog will fly around the ring with his beautiful long coat brushing the floor and creating a “skirt” around the legs that flows and undulates with his moving. They are indeed a showy dog and the show breeders of today have recognized that they do have to take great care in maintaining and improving upon this little dog, so that it can become what it used to be, a dog with excellent character and spirit, non aggressive and gentle and a wonderful family companion.

Dog picture taken by Wooliedales.

Dog picture taken by Yoshimai.

Dog picture taken by mikebaird.

Dog picture taken by Randy Son Of Robert.

A Cocker Spaniel been amused by his noisy toy monkey.

Miammm… www.cokersspaniel.com

The Cocker Spaniel is a generally even tempered, loving dog that is affectionate and loving. She is a good watch dog and when properly bred, a great child companion. She can do well in an apartment as long as she gets frequent long walks. A properly fenced in enclosure is better for exercise.

*Good With Children? Cocker Spaniels are great with children as long as they come from reasonably good bloodlines. They are so popular that puppy mills are churning them out and some poor traits have been showing up. As a reminder, never leave a young child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.
*Good With Other Pets? Again, they are generally good with other pets as long as they have good bloodlines.
*Temperament: This is a very friendly, loving dog and they are active.
*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Cocker Spaniel is 14 to 15 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 24 to 28 pounds.
*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Cocker Spaniel is no exception. Be on the look out for eye problems, canine hip dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness), epilepsy and slipping stifles, IMHA (Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia), glaucoma, and patellar luxation.
This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.
She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.
*Grooming. The Cocker Spaniel has a soft, silky coat that needs almost daily brushing. Her coat can pick up brambles and debris and this must be brushed out of her coat before they form mats and cause skin problems.
Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.
Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

*Life Span. The Cocker Spaniel can live between 10 and 14 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.
*History. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1878.

Some Registries:
*American Spaniel Club
*UKC United Kennel Club
*NKC National Kennel Club
*CKC Continental Kennel Club
*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.
*AKC American Kennel Club
*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale
*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club
*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain
*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club
*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: 4 to 6 Cocker Spaniel puppies

Category: Sporting Group.

Terms To Describe: Sturdy, well balanced, excellent temperament, playful, trustworthy, loyal, cheerful, active, friendly,

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS
She is a very gentle dog.
Good watch dog.
They are an obedient dog.
*SPECIAL BAD POINTS
Can become fat if not exercised.
Puppy mills are turning out some poor specimens.
Does not like harsh training, she is very sensitive.Poor guard dog.
Can be a barker.
Some say that they are not highly intelligent.
Housebreaking can be problematic.

*Other Names Known By: Merry Cocker

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.

Historically the Cocker Spaniel in the United States has reached the top of breed popularity in the A.K.C. a number of different times. It is small so it is a great size for a household companion and has a perpetual puppy look about the face. It has a merry and happy personality and seems to be the perfect companion for children. In part due to this popularity, the dog has been so widely bred that it has lost much of its original hunting instinct and is seldom used in these days as a hunting dog. Dogs historically who have enjoyed this extent of popularity often lose not only the instinctive qualities for which they were bred, but also the temperament can become unstable.

The American Cocker Spaniel, previously considered by many to be a darling dog with sweet disposition, developed some unreliable temperament over the years and presently has been noted as one of the smaller dogs which is unreliable in temperament and can frequently be a “biter”. Unfortunately not enough notice is taken of this since it is a smaller dog, however, in lists of dogs that bite in studies taken across the U.S., the Cocker is high on the list.

The English Cocker Spaniel is a close cousin. Both dogs derive their name from the practice of using these breeds to hunt the woodcock. Their smaller size and agile bodies could penetrate the thickets and brush which is the woodcocks’ habitat. The English Cocker has retained more of the hunting instinct and is still used as a gun dog.

In the conformation show ring of the United States, due to the huge popularity of the Black Cocker, the Cocker Club applied to the American Kennel club to show this dog in a separate group, so as to allow for the other varieties, the Parti-Color and the ASCOB (any solid color other than black), to have their chance. Thus the American Cocker Spaniel is one of the very few breeds which is shown in separate classes even though are actually one breed. As a result, in the Sporting Group, there will be three representatives of the Cocker Spaniel being shown.

The coat of the Cocker Spaniel is luxuriant and flowing. It has been somewhat over emphasized when breeding for show, and can be quite unmanageable for the folks who have this dog as a family pet. Usually a pet Cocker is kept trimmed . If care is not taken to maintain the coat either through brushing or trimming it can become a serious problem, full of mats and tangles .Buyers who purchase puppies need to understand the necessity for coat care in this breed.

The breed is also susceptible to a number of disease conditions, including skin problems and allergies, eye problems, epilepsy and ear infections. Many of these problems stem from the over breeding of the dog in commercial breeding kennels, where little emphasis is ever placed on health and temperament, and now it will take a number of years to eliminate such problems from the genetic pool. Breeders who are concerned about this have made a strong effort recently to breed not only those dogs who have been tested for health problems but also those dogs who have a stable temperament.

The Cocker Spaniel is basically a hunting dog and its appearance reflects the capability of the dog. These dogs socialize well and behave nicely with children. Cocker Spaniel obedience training is normally simple as they are always eager to please their owners. Cockers sometimes may become more possessive of their owners and barks to alert them of a visitor. If they are left alone for a longer period, they become aggressive and may retaliate.

Cockers are brilliant family dogs and require lots of exercise; they also love swimming and running off the lead. They are friendly and love human companionship and like to please their owners. They live about 11 to 12 years and some of the health problems that affect them are skin allergies, cataracts, shyness, benign tumors, bite problems and deafness.

There are two types of Cockers namely the English and the American. The tallness in these two types distinguishes them. Normally, American Cocker is longer than the English Cocker. Cocker Spaniel obedience training involves trimming the coat and regular grooming. If you want to give them a neat look, then trimming is necessary.

Cocker dogs are excellent working and hunting dogs. Cocker Spaniel obedience training can be carried out without much difficulty as they are highly intelligent. Also, they are good learners and always eager to please their masters. The dogs can be trained as sniffer dogs that are used to check for food products or drugs. A working Cocker is a flushing dog and it need some training to do the job efficiently. A well-bred Cocker Spaniel is playful, gentle, trusting, loyal and happy towards everyone.

Cocker Spaniel obedience training includes the special grooming needs. The coat length may be wavy or flat. The color of the coat can be buff, liver, buff etc. The ears are silky and long and require daily cleaning. They should be combed and brushed at least twice or thrice a week to shun matting on the chest, ears and legs. They appreciate and love long vigorous walks.

Cocker Spaniels easily catch ear infections and hence the ears should be cleaned properly. If you are leaving her for professional grooming, then make sure the ear is cleaned properly. Any excess fluid or water should not remain inside the ear. The ear cleaning may be difficult to carry out. Cocker Spaniel obedience training will be easier if you keep her healthy and free from ear infections.

Cockers teeth should be brushed with the specific toothpaste and brush for at least twice in a week. Brushing removes the tartar and hence can avoid cavities and periodontal disease. The toenails also require care and should be clipped regularly. Strengthen your emotional bonds with her to keep her healthy and happy.

If left alone, they become more aggressive and even can bite or bark for longer hours to show their unhappiness. On the other hand, if trained right from a young age, they behave very well with others and children and shows their happiness and affection towards the family.

Dog picture taken by Matt Stratton.

Me grooming my handsome little guy Danny. In this Video I show you how to do the face and ears and I also begin to show you the cocker crown. I will show more on the cocker crown on part 2. Thanks for watching I hope you enjoyed.

Dog picture taken by mikebaird.

Dog picture taken by Señor Hans.

Dog picture taken by di_the_huntress.

Dog picture taken by blogdnd.

www.doggyguides.com The Cocker Spaniel is a beautiful, sweet dog that loves people. He makes an excellent pet, but presents a few challenges to the owner. General Appearance and Description The American Cocker Spaniel was originally developed through breeding of the English Cocker Spaniel. The American Cocker is smaller than the English version, and the English Cocker often has a finer and shorter coat of hair. The Cocker Spaniel has long ears, and a medium-length coat that’s shiny and feathered looking. On black Cocker Spaniels, the nose will always be black, but on other colored Spaniels, the nose can be brown. You might get a Cocker Spaniel that’s buff-colored, or black. The coat is usually one color, but some can be a primary color with another color accent (such as white with black and tan accents). Most Cocker Spaniel breeders will suggest that you get your dogs tail docked, but if you aren’t showing him, there is no real reason to do it. Basic Temperament The Cocker Spaniel enjoys work, but it’s just as happy being a pet in your house. This is an easy-going dog that will happily go with the flow and complain little. In general the American Cocker Spaniel is cheerful, sensitive, respectful and pleasant to be around. They are a gentle breed and can be prone to shyness, and will eschew new relationships with people and other dogs if not socialized properly. It’s best to socialize Cocker Spaniel puppies early and often so they don’t develop that shy side. Unlike some …

Is the American Cocker Spaniel the right breed for you? Following is a brief standard on the American Cocker Spaniels. Their history, their physical and mental makeup and how to best care for them.

History: American Cocker Spaniels are the smallest member of the Sporting Group of spaniels. Initiated in Spain and developed primarily in England, they were named because they were popularly used to hunt the woodcock in England.

The American Kennel Club recognized this breed after the formation of the English Cocker Spaniel Club of America (ECSA).The increasing popularity of the breed led to an increase in its exports into the United States. By 1946 American-bred Cockers became prevalent and were acknowledged by the American Kennel Club to be quite distinct from their English cousins.

The type of work the breed does: The American Cocker Spaniel was initially employed as hunting dogs. They chased out birds and prey from brush lands, which were then shot by their masters.

Even today they are primarily thought of as sporting dogs even though they are mainly bred for companionship and dog shows.

Physical Representation: The texture of the coat is silky, flat or slightly wavy. It is short and fine on the head and of medium length in the rest of the body and accompanied with adequate undercoating for protection. Dogs with feathered ears, chest, legs and abdomen are preferred.

Personality and Temperament: Originally meant to be hunting dogs, American Cocker Spaniels are now enjoying immense popularity as household pets.

They have acquired a reputation for being good companions to children and get along very well with other pets. The standard height of a male American Cocker Spaniel is 15 inches and bitches are typically 14 inches tall; the height being measured from the top of the shoulder blades to the ground.

A grace of half an inch is permitted in a confirmation show. American Cockers are categorized into three colors in a confirmation show: black, any firm Color except black, and parti-Color varieties.

The Cocker Spaniels that come under the black category include those that are solid black as well as black with tan points. The ASCOB categories include a range of solid colors from the lightest shade of cream to the darkest red and even brown with russet points.

Parti-colors include a mixture of two colors with white as the primary color with no more than 90% coloration and at least 10% of the secondary color. Roans are also included within this category.

Care: A Cocker Spaniel’s coat should be sufficiently clipped so that it does not hinder movements of the dog. Electric clippers should be avoided while trimming. Also the trimming should be such that it appears to be naturally done.

Living environment: These are very content dogs and prefer to live in small backyards or similar places. The breed, however, needs to be looked after well and taken care of regularly.

Caring for a Cocker Spaniel should include a regular exercise regime in order to prevent obesity and the onset of emotional distress.

Dog picture taken by lsirtosky.

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 15.5 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