The American Cocker Spaniel originates from...
Referenced as early as the 14th century, the American Cocker Spaniel falls within the 'gundog' group, sharing its classification with the Retrievers, Pointers, and Setters. The Cocker Spaniel is separated into the English and American variety, although the American is traditionally more popular. Primarily utilised as a hunting gun dog capable of working large lands and difficult terrain, the Spaniel is adept at hunting through water. It was introduced to America in 1620, although it wasn't until 1878 that the breed was officially recognised by the AKC.
The American Cocker Spaniel is characterised by...
A medium-sized breed with a broad muzzle, low-set 'drop' ears, round eyes, and a glamorous coat feathering on its underside, legs, chest, and ears, the Spaniel is common in colour variations of solid black, merle, or white, with red, tan, buff, or black markings. The texture of the coat is soft, wavy, and highly manageable, although it requires regular grooming and bathing. The dew claws are often removed, and it is not uncommon to see the tail docked, despite it being an illegal practice across Europe.
The average American Cocker Spaniel...
Retaining their working instinct, the breed is bold, determined, and intelligent, requiring gentle obedience training from an early age. The original family dog, they are highly trainable, making them well suited to domestic living, and is compatible with children and other house pets when introduced gradually. Affectionate, loyal, and sociable, the breed makes a great addition to family life. On average, a healthy American Cocker Spaniel will weigh 7-14kg, with a life expectancy of 12-15 years when cared for accordingly.
Weaknesses...
Susceptible to various health complaints that are partly genetic, this breed has been known to suffer from optical disorders including glaucoma and cataracts, as well as issues relating to the hips and elbows. More serious conditions specific to the breed are cardiac weakness, epilepsy, and liver disease, while deafness is also common due to the ears hanging low against the ground. Additionally, the Spaniel is prone to easy weight gain, so feeding human foods is not encouraged as even the smallest amount of fat can be detrimental to the general health of the dog.
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![[REDACTED] [REDACTED]'s American Cocker Spaniel - Hudson](http://static1.viovet.co.uk/opt/s=kr/petphotos/19875_3597e2e2f6b13b31bd22f5085cbaf1fe.jpg)
![[REDACTED] [REDACTED]'s American Cocker Spaniel - Mari](http://static1.viovet.co.uk/opt/s=kr/petphotos/29634_de2925e43e33e855b9d62d0f10a9d4c0.jpg)
Lost our American Cocker last week. Absolutely devastated as he was the world to my wife and I. He was a real character with a great temperament. He was almost 13 years old and was never an ounce of trouble. He just entertained us.
Our home is empty.
From Dumfries and Galloway, United Kingdom
Elsa and Emma, my third and fourth Americans!! A friend refers to them as those American Floozies and he is right. Lots of fun, never aggressive, sometimes demanding, headstrong, loving, high maintenance grooming but they do look the part and the effort is worthwhile. Love the snow - just as well here!! Hate the rain - well 50% on climate is OK! Love walking and free running, obedient and trustworthy with the family. Happy little dogs and the love of my life in case you had not guessed.
From Dumfries and Galloway, United Kingdom
Emma is my fourth American Cocker. A happy dog who is a little demon - lovable and mischievous. Elsa is my third American. Beautiful, well behaved, perfect - but can keep the delinquent child in order.
Both are from France which might explain lots!!! I need to brush up my French so Emma understands me!!!!!!!!!!!!! Let's hope that she becomes bilingual quickly before I go much greyer. Elsa's command of English is word perfect.
They are the love of my life, they make me smile and laugh and they always welcome me home.
High maintenance for grooming but an evening with a couple of little dogs on your knees as you comb and brush is relaxing and good for bonding.
From Hampshire, United Kingdom
Penny a beautiful 9 year old American Cocker Spaniel but behaves like a puppy! She is always on the go and still doing agility! She is naughty, very strong willed but adorable so is forgiven all! She is our third American Cocker and can't imagine owning any other breed, we love her as does everyone who meets her, always the star on her walks!