The American Cocker Spaniel is a breed of gun dog that is a relative of the English Cocker Spaniel. This breed has developed from the United Kingdom and was originally used to hunt for woodcock, therefore the name cocker. In 1940s, this gun dog has been further developed in the US and was then recognized as a distinct breed from its English counterpart.
In its native country the US, it is simply called the Cocker Spaniel. In other parts of the world such as Canada and Europe, it is called the American Cocker Spaniel. Before, this dog flourished as a gun dog but today it is more known as a lovable family pet.
The first spaniels in England were imported from Spain then later on developed to become companions in small game hunting. In 1892, the cocker spaniel was differentiated from the Springer spaniel, wherein before these two types were born on the same litter and were only identified by type during adulthood. Additionally, the English Setter was utilized to further enhance the cocker spaniel breed and differentiate it completely from the Springer spaniel.
To tell the American Cocker Spaniel and English Cocker Spaniel apart, the American type is smaller than the English variety. The coat is also longer and hanging low for the American Cocker Spaniel compared to the English type which is shorter. The head of the American type is rounder and the ears are pendulous while the English variety's head is rectangular and the ears are shorter.
The height of the American Cocker Spaniel should be 15 inches and any dog higher than 15.5 is disqualified in shows. The average weight is also 25 to 35 pounds but the male can be a bit heavier. The average life span of this breed is up to 12 years, only one year shorter than the English Cocker Spaniel.
The fur of this breed is especially given attention to because of its importance during dog shows and so it is groomed and maintained regularly. This coat is silky, dense, long, flat and double coated. The coat colors are listed under categories: Black, ASCOB (Any Solid Color Other than Black), Tricolor, and Parti Color.
As a gun dog, the American Cocker Spaniel is known to be brave, hard worker, and respectful of the master's authority. As a family pet, this dog is very sociable, amiable, and sweet. It is known to be gentle, devoted, trusting and sensitive.
The American Cocker Spaniel is fairly active and has an infinite stamina and so daily exercise should be given to it. Keeping the fluff healthy and beautiful requires daily brushing and shampooing. Additionally, regular nail clipping, coat trimming, and eyes cleaning should also be implemented.
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