Spaniel (American Cocker)

The American Cocker Spaniel is a distinct breed from the English Cocker Spaniel, developed in the United States from English Cocker Spaniel stock imported in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and selectively bred for a more exaggerated, glamorous appearance and a somewhat different character - with a more domed skull, a shorter muzzle, more profuse coat, and a slightly smaller and more compact build than the English variety. The American Cocker became the most popular dog breed in the United States for many years in the mid-twentieth century and has maintained a devoted following internationally as a show and companion dog of considerable visual appeal. The two breeds are shown separately by the Kennel Club in the United Kingdom, where the American Cocker Spaniel is registered in the Gundog Group.

The American Cocker Spaniel is a small to medium-sized, compact and heavily coated dog of considerable beauty. The head is more rounded and domed than the English Cocker, with a shorter, deeper muzzle and very large, dark, expressive eyes that give the breed its characteristic soft, appealing expression. The coat is the breed's most striking feature - long, silky and profuse, particularly on the ears, chest, abdomen and legs where it falls in glamorous sweeps of silky feathering. Coat colours include black, various shades of buff and cream, chocolate, parti-colour and roans. Adults typically stand 33 to 38 centimetres at the shoulder and weigh 9 to 14 kilograms.

The character is gentle, affectionate, cheerful and sociable - a companion spaniel that combines the working spaniel's eagerness and good nature with the softer, more rounded temperament that results from generations of selection for companionship. The American Cocker is good with children, generally sociable with other dogs and devoted to its family. It is less intensely drivey than the English Cocker and more suited to a moderate-activity household.

The grooming commitment is substantial and should not be underestimated. Daily brushing and regular professional grooming are essential to maintain the coat in good condition.

Health testing for PRA and Hereditary Cataract DNA tests is essential, alongside Hip Dysplasia assessment.

Purchase prices from KC-registered, health-tested breeders range from £800 to £2,000. Monthly running costs average £90 to £160 including grooming costs. The American Cocker Spaniel Club is the primary resource for breed information, health testing requirements, responsible breeders and rescue contact. Prospective owners should consider the grooming commitment carefully before purchasing - a coat in poor condition through inadequate brushing is both uncomfortable for the dog and expensive to restore professionally.

Gentle, cheerful, affectionate and sociable. Good with children and other dogs. Devoted to its family. Less intense and less drivey than the English Cocker in the working sense. Gentle and sweet-natured. Enjoys company and dislikes being left alone for long periods. A warm and loving companion.

Intelligent and eager to please - more biddable than many terrier or hound breeds. Responds well to positive, gentle reinforcement. Sensitive to harsh handling. Early socialisation is important. A pleasant and cooperative breed to train that generally enjoys the engagement and interaction of training sessions.

Needs 45 to 60 minutes of daily exercise. Less driven than the English Cocker Spaniel but still requires regular exercise to maintain condition and mental wellbeing. On-lead walking is generally adequate combined with some off-lead activity in secure areas.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy is a significant concern in American Cocker Spaniels and DNA testing of breeding animals is strongly recommended. Hereditary Cataract has been documented and eye testing is essential. Primary Glaucoma has been reported. Hip Dysplasia testing of parents is advisable. Phosphofructokinase Deficiency DNA testing is recommended. The breed club maintains health testing guidance.

Feed a high-quality complete food for a small to medium active breed. Two meals daily. Monitor weight - the profuse coat conceals body condition. Prone to ear infections - keep ear canals dry and clean.

The coat is extremely high maintenance. The long, silky, profuse coat requires thorough brushing daily or every other day to prevent severe matting. Professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks is essential for pet owners. The heavily feathered ears require daily checking and cleaning to prevent infection in the long ear canals.

Purchase price from a KC-registered, health-tested breeder: £800 to £2,000. Monthly running costs: £90 to £160 given the grooming costs.

Suits owners who are prepared for very high coat maintenance and regular professional grooming. Gentle and good with children. Less energetic than the English Cocker. Eye conditions are a significant concern - ensure both parents have current eye test clearances. A loving companion for those who appreciate the glamorous appearance and gentle character.