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American Cocker Spaniel Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about American Cocker Spaniel so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Gun Dog
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American Cocker Spaniel dog profile picture
OriginUnited States flagUnited States
Other Names
What other names does the American Cocker Spaniel have?
CockerMerry CockerCocker Spaniel
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred The Cocker Spaniel is considered a purebred dog breed, but more than a hundred mixes and hybrids have been created from this breed. We have compiled a list of Cocker Spaniel Mixes.

American Cocker Spaniel Size and Weight

Size
Is an American Cocker Spaniel small, medium or large dog?

How big do American Cocker Spaniel get?

What is the average size of an American Cocker Spaniel?

Medium
Weight
How much does the American Cocker Spaniel weigh? How much should an American Cocker Spaniel weight? What is the normal weight of an American Cocker Spaniel? How much does a full-grown American Cocker Spaniel weight?
15-30 pounds (7-14 kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of an American Cocker Spaniel?
22.5 pounds (10.5 kg)
Height
How tall is the American Cocker Spaniel? American Cocker Spaniel height:
15-16.5 inches (38-41 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of an American Cocker Spaniel?
15-16.5 inches (39.5 cm)

American Cocker Spaniel Price and Availability

Price
How much does the American Cocker Spaniel puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of an American Cocker Spaniel in the United States? How much money is an American Cocker Spaniel?

Where to buy an American Cocker Spaniel with a good pedigree?

$600-$800
If you choose to purchase the American Cocker Spaniel, you should know that the mentioned amount of money is an average of the collected data from breeders’ sites and puppy finder places. If you have a American Cocker Spaniel for sale, please advertise it on a reliable website to make sure the American Cocker Spaniel gets to a happy place.
Availability
How easy is it to get a American Cocker Spaniel? How many American Cocker Spaniel are there in the world?
Very frequent: The American Cocker Spaniel is quite easy to get. There is a risk of overbreeding, as it is an extremely popular breed.

Inbreeding is common because of its popularity. A new study suggests that inbreeding contributes to the incidence of disease and health problems.

So be careful, buy from a trustworthy place or kennel and seek the help of an experienced person, a professional, to make the right decision.

American Cocker Spaniel Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the American Cocker Spaniel? Is the American Cocker Spaniel breed dumb or smart?
Very smart: American Cocker Spaniel is an excellent dog breed. You can teach them many tricks and commands. The limit is your creativity. They understand and memorize new commands in 5-15 repetitions. This breed obeys the first command 85% of the time or better.

The American Cocker Spaniel is one of the top breeds in the dog intelligence ranking.

Trainability
Are American Cocker Spaniel dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train an American Cocker Spaniel?
American Cocker Spaniel dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Ability
Is American Cocker Spaniel good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
American Cocker Spaniel dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do American Cocker Spaniel dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
American Cocker Spaniel dogs are average defenders. Some dogs are very protective of their territory, while others easily let a stranger to trespass. This breed is not sure to defend its territory in every situation.

American Cocker Spaniel Personality and Temperament

Temperament
What kind of personality does the American Cocker Spaniel have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
IntelligentOutgoingOutrightTemperedMerryTrustingJoyfulSociable
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? American Cocker Spaniel sensitivity:
American Cocker Spaniel dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is an American Cocker Spaniel a good family dog?
High: American Cocker Spaniel dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers. They enjoy quality time with their owners despite the activity and are considered great therapy dogs for those in need. This breed responds strongly to their handler's emotions because they bond closely. Their happiness is your happiness.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Cocker need? American Cocker Spaniel social needs:
American Cocker Spaniel dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn't tolerate being left alone.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the American Cocker Spaniel to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does American Cocker Spaniel roam?
The wanderlust potential of the American Cocker Spaniel is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does American Cocker Spaniel have high prey drive?
American Cocker Spaniel dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something. Cats or any other small animals are in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that American Cocker Spaniel dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

American Cocker Spaniel Activity and Playfulness

Playfulness
How playful is this breed?
The American Cocker Spaniel is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Barking
Do American Cocker Spaniel dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Cocker bark?
Average to High: The American Cocker Spaniel is a vocal breed. Not the best choice if you prefer a quiet breed. They often bark loudly and howl sometimes. They can change their barks depending on their emotional level and what they're trying to say. Different barks could mean the same and the same barks could have different meanings.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Apartment Friendly
Is American Cocker Spaniel good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have an American Cocker Spaniel in an apartment?
Very house-friendly dog the American Cocker Spaniel breed. It's good if you have a small garden where he can go out and do his business, but it's not important at all. You can get enough exercise with one or two walks a day, so keeping them indoors shouldn't be a problem.

American Cocker Spaniel Adaptability and Independence

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
American Cocker Spaniel dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can an American Cocker Spaniel be left alone? How long can you leave an American Cocker Spaniel alone?
American Cocker Spaniel dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

American Cocker Spaniel Bite Characteristics

Bite Force PSI
Does the American Cocker Spaniel has a hard bite? What is the bite force of an American Cocker Spaniel? How much bite force does an American Cocker Spaniel have? How strong is an American Cocker Spaniel bite?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

American Cocker Spaniel bite force: Ordinary. Bite force American Cocker Spaniel measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of an American Cocker Spaniel is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This American Cocker Spaniel bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. American Cocker Spaniel bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train an American Cocker Spaniel puppy not to bite from an early age.

The American Cocker Spaniel, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the American Cocker Spaniel bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, an American Cocker Spaniel can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Biting Potential
Do American Cocker Spaniel bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Cocker? What are the odds of getting bitten by a American Cocker Spaniel? Why do dog bites happen?

Low 🔽

The American Cocker Spaniel has a low chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the American Cocker Spaniel do?
American Cocker Spaniel dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but American Cocker Spaniel dogs need to be taught a good attitude.

American Cocker Spaniel Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do American Cocker Spaniel dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
American Cocker Spaniels are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Health Problems
What genetic/health problems does the American Cocker Spaniel breed have? What are the health issues and concerns of the American Cocker Spaniel breed? Most common health risks of American Cocker Spaniel:
Cataracts Hip Dysplasia Patellar LuxationAllergiesHypothyroidismProgressive retinal atrophy (PRA)Idiopathic EpilepsyGlaucomaAutoimmune Hemolytic AnemiaPrimary Seborrhea
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the American Cocker Spaniel breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the American Cocker Spaniel see the vet?
Rare
The American Cocker Spaniel should have a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months (but preferably once per year). If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.
Life Expectancy
How long do American Cocker Spaniel dogs live? How old can a American Cocker Spaniel be? What is the age limit of the American Cocker Spaniel? How many years can the oldest American Cocker Spaniel live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of an American Cocker Spaniel?

How long is the lifespan of an American Cocker Spaniel?

11-15 years
The average lifespan of American Cocker Spaniel: 13 years
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.

American Cocker Spaniel Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the American Cocker Spaniel have? What is the activity level of the American Cocker Spaniel?
American Cocker Spaniel dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn't the perfect choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does an American Cocker Spaniel need? How much exercise do American Cocker Spaniel dogs require per day?

Do American Cocker Spaniel dogs need a lot of exercises?

American Cocker Spaniel dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the American Cocker Spaniel breed need?
American Cocker Spaniel dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.

American Cocker Spaniel Diet and Weight Management

Average daily food consumption
How much food does an American Cocker Spaniel need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does an American Cocker Spaniel breed eat per day? What is good dog food for American Cocker Spaniel? How much food should I feed my American Cocker Spaniel?
1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? American Cocker Spaniel risk for obesity:
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the American Cocker Spaniel's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the American Cocker Spaniel weight regularly.

American Cocker Spaniel Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the American Cocker Spaniel have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Feathered
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper American Cocker Spaniel coats?
BlackTan Red SilverBrownBuff
Grooming
How to groom the American Cocker Spaniel and how often? How often should I take my American Cocker Spaniel to the groomer?
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition. The American Cocker Spaniel requires grooming on a daily basis.

Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer is essential. Everyday brushing of the dog's coat is necessary to reduce shedding.

Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections. Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath should be on a weekly schedule.

Taking good care of your American Cocker Spaniel is time-consuming and requires excellent grooming skills. If you don't have the time and skill search for the best dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.
Shedding Level
How much do American Cocker Spaniel dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Cocker? Do American Cocker Spaniel dogs shed a lot?
American Cocker Spaniel dogs shed moderately. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. Regular brushing reduces the amount of hair that sheds. It mostly depends on their health status and breed type.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the American Cocker Spaniel need a bath? How often should you give an American Cocker Spaniel a bath? Can I bathe my American Cocker Spaniel every day?
6-8 weeks
Rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

For example, short-haired dog breeds can go a very long time in between baths. These short-haired breeds shed regularly and that shedding works to naturally remove excess dirt and oil. So unless your weenie dog got into the garbage can, you can probably hold off on a bath for a while.

Hypoallergenic
Is the American Cocker Spaniel breed hypoallergenic?
No
American Cocker Spaniel dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

Medium

The American Cocker Spaniel has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Drooling Tendency
Does the American Cocker Spaniel drool?
The American Cocker Spaniel is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency. If you're disgusted by slobber spots on your clothes, the American Cocker Spaniel could be a perfect choice for you. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem. Certain dog breeds drool minimum compared to others, just like the American Cocker Spaniel.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

American Cocker Spaniel Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do American Cocker Spaniel dogs get along with other pets? Are American Cocker Spaniel dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
American Cocker Spaniel dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? American Cocker Spaniel temperament with other people:
American Cocker Spaniel dogs are very stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Are American Cocker Spaniel dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? American Cocker Spaniel temperament with children:
American Cocker Spaniel dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Cat Friendly
How well do American Cocker Spaniel dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the American Cocker Spaniel breed live with a cat?
American Cocker Spaniel dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is American Cocker Spaniel good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do American Cocker Spaniel dogs get along with other dogs?
American Cocker Spaniel dogs are dog-friendly dogs. If you want more dogs in your family or you'd like to join dog meetups, the American Cocker Spaniel can be a great choice.
Good For First Time Owners
Is American Cocker Spaniel breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is American Cocker Spaniel breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
American Cocker Spaniel dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are American Cocker Spaniel dogs good office canines? Do American Cocker Spaniel dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
Yes
American Cocker Spaniel is one of the best dog breeds for office environment
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do American Cocker Spaniel dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Cocker temperament with senior people? Are American Cocker Spaniel dogs good for elderly owners?
American Cocker Spaniels are one of the best breeds for elderly people.

American Cocker Spaniel As a Working Dog

Service Dog
Are they good as service dogs? Can American Cocker Spaniel be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

American Cocker Spaniel is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can American Cocker Spaniel be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a American Cocker Spaniel be an emotional support animal?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

American Cocker Spaniel is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can American Cocker Spaniel be a sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

American Cocker Spaniel is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can American Cocker Spaniel be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The American Cocker Spaniel is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can American Cocker Spaniel be a boat dog?

Yes

American Cocker Spaniel breed usually likes being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, as a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can American Cocker Spaniel be a drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

American Cocker Spaniel is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where American Cocker Spaniel dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

American Cocker Spaniel Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is an American Cocker Spaniel pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the American Cocker Spaniel breed is pregnant?

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female American Cocker Spaniel: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the American Cocker Spaniel have in a litter? How many puppies can the American Cocker Spaniel breed have for the first time? How many puppies does an American Cocker Spaniel have? How many puppies can an American Cocker Spaniel give birth to?
4-7 puppies

American Cocker Spaniel Recognition

AKC Group
Is American Cocker Spaniel recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1878 as a Sporting breed.
FCI Group
Is American Cocker Spaniel recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Recognized by FCI in the Retrievers - Flushing Dogs - Water Dogs group, in the Flushing Dogs section.
Breed Recognition
What kennel clubs and organizations recognize or register the American Cocker Spaniel breed?
American Canine RegistryAmerican Kennel ClubAmerica's Pet RegistryCanadian Kennel ClubDog Registry of America Inc.Federation Cynologique InternationaleKennel Club of Great BritainNorth American Purebred Registry, Inc.American Canine Association, Inc.Australian National Kennel CouncilContinental Kennel ClubNational Kennel ClubNew Zealand Kennel ClubUnited Kennel ClubCanadian Canine Registry

American Cocker Spaniel Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Intelligent Rank: Very smart: American Cocker Spaniel is an excellent dog breed.
  • Health Issues: American Cocker Spaniels are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Apartment Friendly: Very house-friendly dog the American Cocker Spaniel breed.
  • Drooling Tendency: The American Cocker Spaniel is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
  • Adaptability: American Cocker Spaniel dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Friendly: American Cocker Spaniel dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
  • Dog Friendly: American Cocker Spaniel dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
  • Office Friendly: American Cocker Spaniel is one of the best dog breeds for office environment
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: American Cocker Spaniels are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
  • Good For First Time Owners: American Cocker Spaniel dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
  • Boat and Sailor Dog: American Cocker Spaniel breed usually likes being on a boat.

    Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

    Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages.

Cons
  • Hypoallergenic: American Cocker Spaniel dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Grooming: Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the American Cocker Spaniel's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the American Cocker Spaniel is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Tolerates Being Left Alone: American Cocker Spaniel dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

American Cocker Spaniel History

The American Cocker Spaniel is a member of the large group of Spaniels originating from antiquity. The word “spaniel” translates to “Spanish dog”, thus it is widely accepted that the Spaniel breeds find their origins in Spain. Due to the breed’s long history, and early emergence, there is not much historical evidence, nor documentation regarding the American Cocker Spaniel’s ancestry. Nevertheless, the breed is considered to have been descended from other Spaniel breeds, including the English Toy Spaniel and the English Springer Spaniel.

Many dog breeds were slow to cross the Atlantic Ocean, yet the Spaniels had been well-known and represented in the United States for centuries. In 1620, the first Pilgrims left Plymouth for the New World, carrying a small Spaniel on the Mayflower, making him the first European dog on American soil. By the late 19th century, the Spaniels were separated into two groups regarding their function: the companion and the hunter dogs. Later on, the hunting Spaniels were also divided into land and water hunting breeds. The Cocker Spaniel is thought to be named after its excellent hunting abilities against woodcock. Despite the breed’s early presence, it was much later, in 1878 that a liver-and-white coated Cocker Spaniel, named Captain was registered by the AKC (American Kennel Club). However, there was no distinction between the American and the English variety yet. In 1881, James Watson and Clinton Wilmerding founded the American Spaniel Club, which is the oldest breed club in the United States, and it initially included many types of Spaniels. Eventually, as more and more Spaniel breeds got their distinct breed standard, and their differences got refined, breeders and club members started to split into separate organizations. Meanwhile, back in England, the first kennel to gain recognition for the Cocker Spaniel as a separate Spaniel breed was the Obo Kennel of Mr. James Farrow, in 1892.

The Cocker Spaniel quickly gained the interest and love of both public and the breeders. Some breeders began to notice the differences between the English and the American variety. Some of them favored the smaller type of the Cocker Spaniel, thus the American. The distinction between these two varieties became clearer when the dogs were bred to suit the American breeders’ taste. In 1936, the English Cocker Spaniel Club of American was formed, and two years later, the club passed a proposal that the English variety should never be cross-bred with the American Cocker Spaniel. The AKC recognized the English Cocker Spaniel in 1946, and the American Cocker Spaniel much later in 1970.

The American Cocker Spaniel’s popularity got a huge boost in 1940 when a black-coated specimen of the breed named Brucie won twice Westminster’s Best in Show. Their heyday in the United Stated was after the Disney movie ‘Lady and the Tramp’ came out in 1955. The breed’s immense popularity increased even more, when the American Cocker Spaniel entered the White House, alongside Richard Nixon and Harry Truman. Moreover, the breed is also loved by Hollywood’s A-listers too, including George Clooney and Oprah. Nowadays, the American Cocker Spaniel is still a popular choice by families searching for a loving and intelligent companion.

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American Cocker Spaniel Comments, Reviews and Questions

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    Jul 18, 2021, 5:18:50 AM:

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