The American Cocker Spaniel is a Sporting Dog breed that originated in America. The dog was initially developed from the English Spaniel Dog breed. The word ‘Cocker’ means woodcock with a stem to hold, and ‘Spaniel’ is from Spanish. American Cocker Spaniel or Cocker Spaniel is one of the smaller dog breeds that originated in the United States. The dog breed is also called Cocking Spaniel.
History and Origin of Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is the smallest of the hunting dog breeds and was developed from early imports of the English Spaniel and bred as a woodcock hunter and as a companion. They are now popular show dog breeds and almost exclusively kept as companions. The country of origin of the breeds is the United States.
Physical Characteristics of Cocking Spaniel
This small, compact dog is square with long drop ears, dark brown eyes, and a black or brown nose. The type of tail of the dog is docked. The silky, medium-length hair 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 particolored, with or without white body markings at the chest and throat or tan points.
Height, Weight, and Life Span of Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is a beloved and passionate companion dog bred, and the average height of the dogs is 14 to 15 inches. The weight is about 18 to 25 inches, and the average life span is 12 to 15 years.
Temperament and Behavior of Dog
The Cocker Spaniel is a lively, intelligent, and friendly dog with a strong work drive and a capacity for training. They are playful, affectionate, faithful, and quiet dog breeds. The dogs are loving, easy-going, and are generally intelligent and easy to train.
Training and Communication of American Spaniel
Communicating with your dog is an intrinsic part of training. You need to learn the canine language before you can train your dogs successfully. That doesn’t mean you have to learn how to bark. Dogs rely more on body language than on anything else to communicate with each other.
To understand this language, you need to understand the foundation of canine behaviors and social structure. Then you can start to learn how you can communicate with your Cocker Spaniel and train them to be the beautiful companions you know they can be.
Grooming and Health Care of Dog
Like regular health care and nutrition, grooming is an essential part of caring for your Cocker Spaniel. From a pedigreed Poodle to a lovable pound pup, all dogs require some level of grooming. Brushing and bathing your dog keeps his skin and coat healthy and makes him more pleasant to live with and love.
Daily teeth brushing and regular nail clipping prevent future health concerns such as periodontal disease and foot problems. Overgrown nails can make walking difficult and, in extreme cases, even deform your dog’s paws.
Owner Ship of American Spaniel Dog
It adjusts well to city, suburban, or rural life and can be an ideal pet for an older person, as long as it is provided with daily walks.
Possible Health Concerns of Cocking Spaniel
The dog is generally good and healthy and affected by prevalent diseases of dogs. The dog needs regular vaccination and deworming. The specific diseases of the breed are:
- Cataracts in dogs.
- Epilepsy in dogs.
- Hypothyroidism in dogs.
- Hip dysplasia.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA).
- Temperament Problems.
- Von Willebrand’s disease.