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Cocker Spaniel Facts
- Group
- Sporting
- Affiliations
- AKC, CKC, UKC
- Height
- 13.5" - 15.5"
- Weight
- 24-30 lbs.
- Lifespan
- 10 years | Add yours
- Exercise Requirement
- Training Requirement
- Grooming Requirement
- Colors
- Breed Characteristics
Alternate Names
American Cocker Spaniel, cocker, cocking spaniel
Origin
The American Cocker Spaniel was created in the U.S.
Date Of Origin
This breed developed in the 1800's.
History
The cocker spaniel is the smallest of the hunting dogs and was developed from early imports of the English cocker spaniel and bred as a woodcock hunter and companion.
According to written historical records, the first Spaniel was brought to North America aboard the "Mayflower" which sailed from Plymouth, England and landed in NewEngland in 1620. This dog was most likely very useful in hunting small game. The Cocker Spaniel was recognized as a breed in England in 1892, separating it from Springer Spaniels; until that time, Cockers and Springers would be born into the same litter, and were only separated out into the distinct types when fully grown. Another dog used in the development of the early Cockers was the English Setter, resulting in the roan coats still seen in the breed. Brought to North America in the late 1800s, the development of Cockers in England and Cockers in North America began to diverge into two different breeds, although breeding between the American Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel was permitted until 1946, when the stud book was closed.
The first Cocker Spaniel registered in the United States' American Kennel Club was "Captain", in 1878, and the American Spaniel Club was formed in 1881, although both the English and American varieties were very similar at that time. The Westminster Dog Show was won in 1921 by a parti-color Cocker (black and white), Ch. Midkiff Seductive.
Description
This small, compact dog is square in shape with long, drop ears, dark brown eyes, and a nose that is black or brown. The tail is docked. The silky, medium length coat has a dense undercoat and there is feathering on the ears, chest, belly, and legs. The coat may be black, ASCOB (any solid color other than black), or parti-colored.
Temperament
The cocker spaniel is a lively, friendly dog with a strong work drive, intelligence, and a capacity for training.
Uses
Although it still possesses the gifts of a hunting dog, the cockers daily role is that of a companion dog. Despite all of its health concerns, it remains very popular, especially in America.
Health Concerns
Cataracts, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, hip dysplasia, PRA, temperament problems, von Willebrand's disease, ear infections, eye infections, hemolytic anemia (AIHA), luxating patellas.
Additional Information
These dogs require regular, daily brushing if the coat is not shaved. The epidermis on any dog is delicate, however it seems the cocker spaniel has more trouble than most, leading to a "fishy" smell if not bathed regularly. These dogs also have a tenancy to become overweight easily. Be sure to keep your cocker spaniel on a healthy diet and exercise them frequently.
Sources
The Howell Book Of Dogs
Publisher: Wiley Publishing Inc, 2007
Website: http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/
Author: Liz Palika
Dog Bible
Publisher: BowTie Press, 2005
Website: http://www.bowtiepress.com/bowtie/
Authors: Kristin Meuh-Roe, Jarelle S. Stein
Simon & Schusters Guide to Dogs
Publisher: Simon & Schuster inc, 1980
Website: http://www.simonandschuster.com
Author: Elizabeth Meriwether Schuler
The New Encyclopedia of the Dog
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Publishing, 2000
Website: http://www.dk.com
Author: Bruce Fogle
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