The American Cocker Spaniel, also known as the Cocker Spaniel, is the smallest of the Spaniel breeds and of the Sporting Group. This dog breed is most well known for their long silky feathery hair, long ears, and companionable temperament. The American Cocker Spaniel is a separate breed from the English Cocker Spaniel, and it has been recognized as its own breed since the 1940’s.
Cockers weigh 15 to 30 pounds on average. For show dogs, the ideal height is 15 inches for males dogs and 14 inches for female dogs at the withers. An adult male Cocker Spaniel who is over 15.5 inches, or an adult female over 14.5 inches, would be disqualified in a conformation show. Bone and head size should be in proportion to the overall balance of the dog.
The American Cocker Spaniel's temperament is typically joyful and trusting. The ideal Cocker temperament is merry, outgoing and eager to please everyone. They can be good with children and usually sociable and gentle with other pets. They tend to be soft dogs who do not do well with rough or harsh training.
American Cocker Spaniels have an average lifespan of about 12 to 15 years. They are susceptible to a variety of maladies, particularly infections affecting their ears and, in some cases, their eyes.