Cocker Spaniel, Cocker, Merry Cocker
Overview
The smallest member of the sporting group, the cocker should be compact and sturdy. Its gait is ground-covering, strong and effortless. The coat is silky, flat or slightly wavy, not overly long. Excessive coat can hinder the dog in the field. The head and expression are hallmarks of the breed; the expression is soft and appealing. Though seldom used for its original purpose, the cocker should still be able to spend a day in the field and should be balanced and athletic. It is true, however, that most cockers now have too much coat for field work.
This breed is known as the "merry" cocker, and the name is most fitting. It is playful, cheerful, amiable, sweet, sensitive, willing to please and responsive to its family's wishes. It is not known for retaining its hunting instincts, but it is inquisitive and will appreciate a country outing. It is equally at home in the city and will happily walk on leash for its exercise needs. Some bark a lot; some are overly submissive.
| Size | Medium |
| Height | 15-16.5 inches (38-41 cm) |
| Weight | 15-30 pounds (7-14 kg) |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Colors | Black Black & Tan Brown Buff Red Silver |
| Origin | United States |
| Classification | Purebred |
| Good Lapcat |
| Good In Apartments |
Cockers will do okay in an apartment if they are adequately exercised. They are fairly active indoors. A small yard is sufficient. Not suited to live outside alone in a kennel. |
| Good With Children |
Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them. |
| Good With Dogs |
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| Good With Cats |
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| Exercise Needs |
American Cockers have plenty of stamina and need regular exercise. They should be taken on daily, long walks. |
| Trainability |
Easy Training: The Cocker Spaniel is quite willing to learn, so training must be consistent but not overly firm. The Cocker Spaniel may be difficult to housebreak. |
| Affectionate |
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| Playfulness |
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| Grooming Requirements |
High Maintenance: Cockers have an abundance of hair, which will require regular grooming and will, no matter how much you try to control it, end up on your furniture. The long ears and big eyes require routine inspection.Their nails should be trimmed regularly to avoid overgrowth and cracking. Their ears should be checked regularly to avoid a buildup of wax and debris which can result in an infection. Teeth should be brushed regularly. |
| Shedding |
Moderate Shedding: Expect this dog to shed regularly. Be prepared to vacuum often. Brushing will reduce shedding as well as make the coat softer and cleaner. |
| Vocalization/Barking |
Frequent |
American Cocker Spaniel Pictures
