American Cocker Spaniel


The American Cocker Spaniel: The Merry Cocker

American Cocker Spaniel

The American Cocker Spaniel is a sturdy, compact dog with a merry disposition, and a silky, flat or wavy coat. They can be black, black with tan points, parti-colored or ASCOB, which stands for any solid color other than black.

The history of the breed can be traced back as far as the 14th century, where there is mention of the “Spanyell”. Cockers are the smallest of the spaniel breeds, but are excellent gun dogs nonetheless, capable of flushing game and retrieving on command.

The American Cocker has developed somewhat differently in appearance to English Cocker Spaniel, and is a smaller dog designed to hunt quail. It eclipses the English variety in popularity in the US, while around the world the English Cocker is more popular.

If you’re thinking about getting a Cocker Spaniel you’ll get a wonderful family pet. Cockers are intelligent, gentle dogs with a true love of people and a genuine desire to please.

Most Cockers these days are companion, rather than hunting dogs, but they still retain their sporting instincts, and are an active breed requiring daily exercise. Grooming needs are also high, with regular brushing and a trim every few months to keep the coat free of mats.

AMERICAN COCKER SPANIEL FACT FILE

Group: Sporting
Country of origin: United States
Date of origin: 1800′s
Originally bred for: Hunting small game / Companion
Current function: Companion / Field trials
Size: Medium
Coat length: Long
Shedding: Yes
Grooming requirements: Daily
Town or Country: Either
Ideal home: Small or large house
Minimum garden size: Large
Exercise requirements: At least 2 hours per day
Lifespan: Over 10 years

If you enjoyed this page on the American Cocker Spaniel, check out some of the other dog breed links below.

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