American Cocker Spaniel
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About the Breed
The exuberant American Cocker Spaniel, with his big, expressive eyes and playful personality, is one of the world’s best-loved breeds. Although developed as hunting dogs, Cockers gained wide popularity as great companion dogs. He is affectionate and loyal, loves being a part of a family, and is an eager playmate for children. His size helps him fit in most home environments. He is a social character, and usually gets along well with other pets in the home. A Cocker Spaniel does not do well left alone frequently or for longer periods of time.
Information
General
History
Grooming
If you are considering having a Cocker Spaniel as a pet, make sure you have the time to give him the training, loving, and attention he needs. The Cocker Spaniel was bred as a sporting dog, and is active and energetic. He needs regular exercise to burn off his energy, and keep him from becoming overweight. A fenced in yard will give him a safe place to race around, explore, and play. Cockers are intelligent and eager to please, excelling in agility and obedience training. The Cocker Spaniel’s coat comes in a variety of colours and patterns. A full coat definitely needs consistent grooming, but it’s beauty is ample reward for the effort. Temperament: Gentle, Smart, Happy AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 29 of 193 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
As far back as the late 12th century, the word spanyell is thought to have referred to a type of dog imported from Spain into England –Span referring to the country of origin. Selective breeding was already practiced according to records from the mid-14th century. There were two distinct types -water spaniels and land spaniels. By 1801, the land spaniel was used extensively to flush woodcocks, a type of wading bird, and became known as the Cocker or Cocking Spaniel. In 1620, the first spaniel was brought to New England, North America, aboard the Mayflower. It originated from Plymouth, England. In 1878, the first Cocker Spaniel was registered with the American Kennel Club. In 1881, the American Cocker Spaniel Club was formed and is now the oldest breed club for dogs in the United States. CH Obo ll is considered the founding sire of the American Cocker Spaniels. He was only 10 inches tall, had a long body, but was thought to be an exceptional dog of that time. At the close of the 19th century, Cocker Spaniels became very popular in Canada and the US as family pets, and hunting companions.
Cocker Spaniels require regular, thorough grooming using a metal, professional-quality comb to keep their coat from getting tangled or matted. Starting at the tips of the coat, pick snarls apart, and then comb through gently. Comb ears carefully; the skin at the edges is thin and can be pierced. Thorough bathing with quality dog shampoo will keep your Cocker smelling and looking fresh and healthy. Rinsing and re-rinsing are are very important, as soap residue can cause skin irritation. When blow drying his coat, never use hot air as it can burn his skin. Most Cocker Spaniels will need a trim every 6-8 weeks. Do your research and connect with a reputable groomer before bringing a puppy home. Keep his ears clean and dry. Check them often to prevent infections. Wiping his eyes with a warm, damp cloth. We have found that keeping your Cocker Sapniel on preand probiotics really helps clear up tear staining. We use the Doggie Daily Advanced Probiotic chews, and have seen great health benefits. Advice/tips from a professional groomer may be helpful for trimming, proper care and maintenance of your Cocker’s beautiful coat.