Introduction
The English Cocker Spaniel, also known as the Cocker and the Merry Cocker, is one of the oldest known land dogs descended from the original spaniels of Spain as one of a family of breeds destined to become highly diversified in size, type, color and hunting ability. This breed is distinguished from the American Cocker Spaniel, and there are two types of English Cocker Spaniels: the working spaniel and the show spaniel, which look very different from one another. The English Cocker Spaniel has an extremely happy, affectionate and loyal personality, which gives it the nickname “the Merry Cocker.” This is a terrific breed for families, particularly the show type, as they get along extremely well with children. The average mature male English Cocker stands 16 to 17 inches at the withers, and mature females of this breed are between 15 and 16 inches in height. Males typically weigh between 28 and 34 pounds, while females typically weigh between 26 and 32 pounds. Their coat should be brushed regularly.