AMERICAN COCKER SPANIEL

Temperament: Gentle, Smart, Happy
Height: 14.5-15.5 inches (male), 13.5-14.5 inches (female)
Weight: 25-30 pounds (male), 20-25 pounds (female)
Life Expectancy: 10-14 years
Group: Sporting Group 

MORE ABOUT THIS BREED

Those big, dark eyes; that sweet expression; those long, lush ears that practically demand to be touched no wonder the Cocker spent years as America’s most popular breed. The coat comes in enough colors and patterns to please any taste. The well-balanced body is sturdy and solid, and these quick, durable gundogs move with a smooth, easy gait.

Cockers are eager playmates for kids and are easily trained as companions and athletes. They are big enough to be sporty, but compact enough to be portable. A Cocker in full coat rewards extra grooming time by being the prettiest dog on the block. These energetic sporting dogs love playtime and brisk walks.

Because Cockers are so popular, it is especially careful to research breeders and find one who is dedicated to improving the breed.

The sensitive Cocker Spaniel can be a bit nervous, even when he’s from a good breeder and has been properly socialized. Don’t be surprised if your Cocker exhibits submissive urination (peeing when excited).

Cockers can be barkers, so response to a “Quiet” command should always be part of this dog’s repertoire.

The Cocker is eager to please and likes to be close to his family. But remember, he was bred to be a hunting dog. Don’t be surprised when he chases birds or other small animals when you’re out on a walk. Keep your Cocker on a leash whenever you aren’t in a fenced area.

PERSONALITY

The Cocker is known to be a sensitive dog, mentally and physically. He has a “soft” personality and does not respond well to harsh treatment, sometimes turning to growling or snapping when he’s in pain or afraid. Early socialization and training is essential to teach the Cocker appropriate canine manners. He needs to be handled carefully and kindly to bring out the best in his personality.

FEEDING

Recommended daily amount: 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day

The Cocker Spaniel has a hearty appetite, and he will overeat if given the chance. He’s especially skilled at melting your resolve with his big, brown eyes as he begs for tidbits. But don’t give in — an overweight Cocker is an unhealthy Cocker.

NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level.

HEALTH

The Cocker Spaniel’s national parent club, the American Spaniel Club, has a health committee that looks at breed health issues and makes recommendations to breeders for required health testing. The Cocker Spaniel has good longevity. A conscientious breeder can furnish records of the sire’s and dam’s health testing, for example for hips, patella, and eyes. Breeders often have years of data regarding testing done in these health areas. Learn from the veterinarian proper procedures to clean the Cocker’s ear canals on a regular basis, especially following a bath, in order to avoid infections. Thorough grooming of the Cocker coat will aid in preventing mats, which can precipitate skin problems underneath.

Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club:

• Ophthalmologist Evaluation
• Hip Evaluation

CARE

The Cocker Spaniel is well suited to living in an apartment or condo though of course he loves to share a house and yard. A daily romp in the yard along with a brisk 30-minute walk can keep him happy and trim. Then bring him inside with you. The Cocker is not pleased to be left alone outdoors for the day, and he may respond by digging or barking to keep himself amused. He’s most content when he’s with his family, participating in the group’s activities.

GROOMING

Cocker Spaniels require regular, thorough grooming. A metal, professional-quality dog comb with fine and medium spacing for the teeth is a necessity. You can follow combing with a gentle slicker brush, but the comb is key.

Loose hair should be carefully removed with the comb, making sure you are clear and can see through to the skin everywhere. Be cautious when combing ears; the skin at the edges is thin and can be pierced by too-vigorous combing. The Cocker requires thorough bathing with quality dog shampoo. Dry carefully with a blow dryer on not too hot a setting.

Learn the procedure for cleaning and drying the ear canals. During bathing, check the Cocker’s skin for any inflamed spots and get treatment. It is key to learn grooming procedures yourself and/or enlist the services of a professional groomer who likes and is experienced in grooming the breed.

Source: akc dogtime