American Cocker Spaniel

The American Cocker Spaniel is a breed of dog that originated in the United Kingdom and was brought to Canada and the United States in the late 1800s. American Cocker Spaniels were given their own AKC Stud Book in the early 1900s. By 1946, the English Cocker Spaniel was distinct enough in type from the "American" variety, that the American Kennel Club established it as a breed separate from the English Cocker Spaniel. It was given its own Stud Book and that left the "American" type to be known as the Cocker Spaniel in the United States. They are in the sporting breed group of dogs and are the smallest of their group. American Cocker Spaniels were used to flush out birds and prey from the brush so their masters could shoot them.
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Buff American cocker spaniel with a show coat.
Photo: Ashbey Photography

Height: 14-15 inches.
Weight: 24-28 lbs.
Life Span: 12-15 yrs.
Breed Group: Sporting Dogs 
Overview
The American cocker spaniel can be a delight or a medical and behavioral nightmare. The delightful cocker loves children and is very friendly, gentle, playful, and trainable. Unfortunately, due to careless breeding, many American cockers are aggressive, nippy, intolerant of children, and difficult to train. If you want an American cocker, begin obedience classes and socialization with adults, children, and other animals early. The cocker does well in the city, suburbs, or country.
Appearance
The cocker's coat is silky and flat or slightly wavy and may be black, any other solid color, black and tan, or particolor. The ears, chest, abdomen, and legs are well feathered, the ears lobe-shaped and long.
Grooming & Exercise Needs
The cocker should be brushed and combed two to three times a week and trimmed every two to three months. The ears should be cleaned weekly, and the ear flaps, which tend to end up in the food bowl, need to be wiped off daily. This dog needs brisk walks and playtime every day.
Origins
The American cocker spaniel is descended from the English "cocking" spaniels that were used to flush woodcocks from their hiding places in the 19th century.
Special Alerts
It is especially important to obtain a cocker spaniel from a reputable breeder; indiscriminate breeding has resulted in dogs with some serious problems. Do not buy one from a pet store.
Breed-related health concerns: deafness, skin problems, hypothyroidism, autoimmune diseases, eye and ear problems, patellar luxation, urinary tract problems.