Basic Information To Know About The Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel is a true sporting breed of dog that is often divided into two categories with very small differences - the American Cocker Spaniel and English Cocker Spaniel. Each features long, wavy-haired ears with a cost that comes in a variety of solid and multi-color combinations including white with black, red or brown markings, black, liver, red, golden and tan. The primary differences between them are that the American Cocker Spaniel is smaller with a shorter muzzle, domed head and shorter back while the English Cocker Spaniel is larger with a slightly narrower head and chest.

A few of their most recognizable features include cheerful and affectionate temperament as well as their love for being part of the family - which help make the Cocker Spaniel one of the most popular breeds around the world as a companion dog for active families.

The English Cocker Spaniel is believed to have descended from the original spaniels of Spain as early as the 1300s, whereas the American Cocker Spaniel was created after the English Cocker Spaniel was brought to the United States in the 1800s and cross-bred with smaller local dogs. They were both designed for specialist bird hunting purposes - the English Cocker Spaniel was chosen for hunting woodcock, while the need for creating the smaller American Cocker Spaniel was based on hunting small game such as quail.

American Cocker Spaniels are classed as a small-sized dog. The recommended standard size for the American Cocker Spaniel male is 15 inches high from paw to shoulder and a weight of 24-28 pounds, whereas the recommended size for female American Cocker Spaniels is 14 inches high from paw to shoulder with a weight of 24-28 pounds.

English Cocker Spaniels are classed as a medium-sized dog. The recommended standard size for the English Cocker Spaniel male is 16-17 inches high from paw to shoulder and a weight of 28-34 pounds, whereas the recommended size for female English Cocker Spaniels is 15-16 inches high from paw to shoulder with a weight of 26-32 pounds.

Both types of Cocker Spaniel are well-known for their cheerful, affectionate and loyal temperament. They are generally friendly with strangers, which can make them unsuitable as a guard dog.

The English Cocker Spaniel and American Cocker Spaniel are both known to be highly intelligent - ranking equal 18th and 20th respectively compared to other dogs based on their ability to learn obedience commands. They are also known to be great with children - making them highly suitable as a family pet. The Cocker Spaniel is very compatible with other dogs and gets along very well with cats when raised with them.

The Cocker Spaniel is happiest with a small yard to run around in, but they can be quite suitable for apartment living if they are exercised enough.

The Cocker Spaniel enjoys activities such as chasing after a ball or frisbee and just simply being included in any activity with their family. They have a medium to high level of energy and need to be given daily exercise in the form of moderate to long walks (with English Cocker Spaniels requiring slightly more exercise than American Cocker Spaniels) to prevent destructive behavior that can result from boredom if they're left alone all day.

The Cocker Spaniel can make the perfect dog for an active owner or family looking for a dog to include in their every activity. They are suitable for anyone who is willing to commit to a fairly high amount of grooming and take time to give them early socialization and basic obedience training to help reduce problem barking as well as take them for moderately long daily walks and give a high amount of companionship and attention - though they can be left alone for short periods, they are happiest when included in the family life and thrive on human contact. Though they might be somewhat unsuitable for a guard dog, if you are able to meet their need for human contact and regular activity then the Cocker Spaniel could make the ideal dog breed for you.

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