American Cocker Spaniel

The American Cocker Spaniel derives its name from its use in woodcock hunts. This medium size breed was originally used as gun dogs but is now almost entirely a family dog. The American type is distinct from its English counterpart in the rounded dome of the head, the silky coat and the hanging ears. The English breed is usually larger, has a shorter coat and a more rectangular head.

This breed was brought to England from Spain to be used as gun dogs. In 1892 England recognized it as a breed separated from Springer Spaniels. The early history of Cocker Spaniels was also influenced by the English Setter, which was used in the creation of early Cockers. This resulted in the roan coats that are still sometimes found in these dogs. In 1878, the American Kennel club registered their first Cocker Spaniel, ‘Captain.’ Soon after, in 1881, the American Spaniel Club was formed.

The average life span of this breed is 10-11 years. This compares poorly to the usual life expectancy of pure breed dogs, as well as to the life span of other medium sized dogs. American Cocker Spaniels are vulnerable to a number of illnesses and infections. Their hanging ears are susceptible to inflammation and their eyes are often inflicted with Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and cataracts. Autoimmune problems and orthopedic problems like Dysplasia are also common in this breed. Another common disorder found in these dogs is rage syndrome. This is described as the dog’s tendency to attack savagely without provocation. The dog’s eyes will usually be glazed and it may appear oblivious to surroundings. Cockers with solid, darker colored coats are found to be more susceptible to this disorder. Instances of this disorder are typically found in English Cocker Spaniels. There are no known instances of this behavior in American Cocker Spaniels.

By temperament, the American Cocker Spaniel is an ideal family dog. They are friendly and outgoing dogs and enjoy human company. These dogs are typically of a softer nature and do not respond well to harsh training. This breed’s primary usage is as a pet and very few are used in hunting in present times.

As a pet or a show dog, great attention is paid to the coat of American Cocker Spaniels. The coat can look very beautiful with proper care and grooming. The ideal coat is silky, flat, short on the head and medium sixed on the body. Some common varieties of coats are buff, tan, black, black with tan points, brown and white, roan and merle. The merle gene controls the color of the coat. Breeding a male merle dog with a normal female produces a dog of the female’s color with light, dappled patches on the coat, and blue eyes. Breeding a merle to another merle could produce deaf and blind puppies with white coats.

Some well known American Cocker Spaniels include Freckles, owned by politician Robert Kennedy and Checkers, owned by US President Nixon.