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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
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is an American Cocker Spaniel known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
CockerMerry CockerCocker Spaniel
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is an American Cocker Spaniel? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
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 Classification
What size category is an American Cocker Spaniel? Learn how big the American Cocker Spaniel breed typically grows.
Medium
Weight Statistics
How much does an American Cocker Spaniel weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the American Cocker Spaniel breed.
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 Range
How much does an American Cocker Spaniel puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting American Cocker Spaniel costs.
$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

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is an American Cocker Spaniel? Discover the American Cocker Spaniel's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
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.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train an American Cocker Spaniel? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's trainability and response to training methods.
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 Rating
How good is an American Cocker Spaniel as a watchdog? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's alertness and guarding instincts.
American Cocker Spaniel dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Territorial Protection
Is an American Cocker Spaniel protective of its territory? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's guarding instincts and behavior.
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

Personality Traits
What personality does an American Cocker Spaniel have? Learn about characteristic American Cocker Spaniel temperament and behavior traits.
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

Barking Frequency
Does an American Cocker Spaniel bark a lot? Learn about typical American Cocker Spaniel vocalization patterns and triggers.
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.

Playful Nature
How playful is an American Cocker Spaniel? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the American Cocker Spaniel breed.
The American Cocker Spaniel is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
Apartment Adaptability
Can an American Cocker Spaniel live in an apartment? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's suitability for apartment living.
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

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is an American Cocker Spaniel to lifestyle changes? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's flexibility to new situations.
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.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can an American Cocker Spaniel be left alone? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's tolerance to solitude.
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 Risk Assessment
What is an American Cocker Spaniel biting potential? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's bite risk factors.

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.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is an American Cocker Spaniel mouthy? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's tendency to use mouth during play.
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.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is an American Cocker Spaniel bite? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's bite force measured in PSI.

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.

American Cocker Spaniel Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does an American Cocker Spaniel live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the American Cocker Spaniel breed.
11-15 years
The average lifespan of American Cocker Spaniel: 13 years
Climate Tolerance
How well does an American Cocker Spaniel handle different weather? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's climate adaptability.
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.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in an American Cocker Spaniel? Discover typical conditions affecting the American Cocker Spaniel breed.
American Cocker Spaniels are commonly healthy dogs. Vet costs aren't expensive with this breed.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does an American Cocker Spaniel need vet visits? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's veterinary care requirements.
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.
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

American Cocker Spaniel Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is an American Cocker Spaniel? Understand daily activity needs of the American Cocker Spaniel breed.
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

Obesity Tendency
Is an American Cocker Spaniel prone to weight gain? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's obesity risks.
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.

Food Consumption
How much food does an American Cocker Spaniel need daily? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's feeding requirements.
1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day.

American Cocker Spaniel Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is an American Cocker Spaniel hypoallergenic? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's suitability for allergy sufferers.
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.
Coat Colors
What colors does an American Cocker Spaniel come in? Discover all possible American Cocker Spaniel color variations.
BlackTan Red SilverBrownBuff
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does an American Cocker Spaniel need? Learn about American Cocker Spaniel coat maintenance requirements.
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.
Drooling Tendency
Does an American Cocker Spaniel drool a lot? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's drooling habits.
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.

Stinkiness Rating
Does an American Cocker Spaniel smell bad? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's natural odor levels.

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.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does an American Cocker Spaniel have? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's fur characteristics.
Feathered
Bathing Needs
How often does an American Cocker Spaniel need baths? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's bathing requirements.
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.

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.

American Cocker Spaniel Good With

Child Compatibility
Is an American Cocker Spaniel good with children? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's behavior around kids of different ages.
American Cocker Spaniel dogs are very kid-friendly dogs. This breed enjoys being surrounded by children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does an American Cocker Spaniel get along with other pets? Discover the American Cocker Spaniel's compatibility with other animals.
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.
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 Capability
Can an American Cocker Spaniel be a service dog? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's service work potential.

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 Work Suitability
Is an American Cocker Spaniel good as a therapy dog? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's therapy work aptitude.

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.

Scent Detection Ability
Is an American Cocker Spaniel good at detection work? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's scenting abilities.

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 & Rescue Potential
Can an American Cocker Spaniel do search and rescue? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's SAR capabilities.

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.

Maritime Work Ability
Is an American Cocker Spaniel good on boats? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's maritime capabilities.

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.

Draft Work Capability
Can an American Cocker Spaniel pull carts? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's drafting abilities.

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.

Military Service Background
Was an American Cocker Spaniel used in military service? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's military history.

Not really

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

American Cocker Spaniel Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does an American Cocker Spaniel usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
4-7 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is an American Cocker Spaniel pregnant? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's gestation period.

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.

Breeding Frequency
How often can an American Cocker Spaniel have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

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.

American Cocker Spaniel Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is an American Cocker Spaniel in? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's AKC classification.
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1878 as a Sporting breed.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is an American Cocker Spaniel in? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's international classification.
Recognized by FCI in the Retrievers - Flushing Dogs - Water Dogs group, in the Flushing Dogs section.
Kennel Club Recognition
Which kennel clubs recognize an American Cocker Spaniel? Learn about the American Cocker Spaniel's official recognition.
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
  • Intelligence Rating: Very smart: American Cocker Spaniel is an excellent dog breed.
  • Health Concerns: American Cocker Spaniels are commonly healthy dogs.
  • Apartment Adaptability: 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.
  • Lifestyle Adaptability: American Cocker Spaniel dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
  • Child Compatibility: 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.
  • Maritime Work Ability: 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
  • Allergy Friendliness: American Cocker Spaniel dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Grooming Requirements: Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
  • Obesity Tendency: 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.
  • Alone Time Tolerance: 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

  • Nia

    Mar 14, 2022, 7:51:21 AM:

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

    UwU