Cocker Spaniels are dogs that belong to two breeds of the spaniel dog type: the American Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel. The term “cocker” refers to their use in hunting woodcock. In the early 20th century, these dogs also included small hunting spaniels.
The term “spaniel” refers to a type of dog that is believed to have originated in Spain. The word “Spain” and “spaniel” are closely related. Spaniels have been bird hunting dogs since before the invention of the rifle, when they were used in tandem with nets.
The Cocker Spaniel was initially bred in the United Kingdom to hunt Eurasian woodcock, which is where it derived its name. When the breed was brought over to America, it was bred differently in order to better hunt for American woodcock. Physical changes were made in America during the early 20th century in order to make them better suited for hunting American woodcock.
There is evidence that Spaniels existed as far back as the 14th century. The Cocker Spaniel we know today had a history of being bred to hunt birds and small animals, and were known as “Cockers” or “Cocker Spaniels” in the 19th century. In 1901, Cocker Spaniels were separated from Springer by weight.
Both breeds of spaniel share similar coat colors, health issues, and characteristics. The origins of both breeds are unknown, but the King Charles Spaniel originates in England. Both dogs are often called “spaynels” due to their close resemblance.
English and American Cocker Spaniels are both descended from a dog named Ch. Obo, who was considered to be the founder of both breeds. His son, Ch. Obo II, is believed to be the progenitor of the American variety.
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Physical Appearance
The English and American cocker spaniel are two breeds of the same dog. Both were bred as gun dogs to use their sense of smell to cover low areas near the handler to flush birds into the air to be shot, and then retrieve the birds with a soft mouth.
The differences between the English and American Shorthair are that the American is smaller with a shorter back, a domed head, and a shorter muzzle. The English variety is taller with a narrower head and chest.
Cocker Spaniels can come in a variety of colors, including black, liver, red and golden. Solid colors include black and tan as well as liver and tan. Also common are color mixes such as roans (a mix of the solid colors), roan and tans (mixes that include white), tricolors (color mixes with three different-colored) and those solid colors with additional white markings.
The Cocker Spaniel is a small sporting spaniel that stands about 14 to 15 inches. It has those big, dark eyes and a sweet expression. Its ears are long and lush and demand to be touched. No wonder the Cocker spent years as America’s most popular breed. Height for male is 14.5-15.5 inches, while the female is 13.5-14.5 inches. The male weight stands between 25-30 pounds and female is 20-25 pounds.
Behavior
The Cocker Spaniel is a well-balanced dog, sturdy and solid with a smooth gait. This fast and nimble breed moves swiftly and is very easy to train. A Cockers make great companions and athletes. They are big enough to be sporty, but compact enough to be portable. These energetic dogs love playtime and brisk walks.
Training and Caring
The Cocker Spaniel is a sporting breed that enjoys being active. It doesn’t need a lot of exercise to get rid of its energy, though, so it will enjoy events like agility competitions and hunting more than sports like running or long walks. Socialization and puppy training classes are recommended for this breed, because it loves spending time with its family.
Cocker Spaniels need regular, thorough grooming. If your Cocker is not groomed routinely, tangles and mats may form in its coat. Your Cocker needs thorough bathing with quality dog shampoo.
Health
The Cocker Spaniel is a sturdy dog with an average life span of 10-14 years. They are less likely to develop hip dysplasia, which occurs when the thighbone doesn’t fit in the pelvic socket correctly.
