American Cocker Spaniel
Breed Profile
The American cocker spaniel (Cocker) is medium-sized, sturdy, and the smallest member of the sporting dogs. This dog is fast and has a track record of exhibiting strength and endurance and craves to release some of its pent up energy. They were bred as gundogs, retrieving woodcocks. The American Cocker Spaniel is smaller than the English cocker spaniel. The head of an American Cocker Spaniel makes the breed immediately recognizable, with the rounded dome of the skull.
Temperament
The American Cocker Spaniel is gentle and if adequately trained is good with its owner and children. Cockers are good-natured, joyous, energetic, athletic, and willing to please and responsive to its family’s wishes.
Color & Coat
Coat: The coat is silky, flat or slightly wavy, not overly long. Excessive coat can hinder the dog in the field.
Color: Black/black and tan, any solid colour other than black. The black variety is either all black, or with tan points on the dog’s head, the feet and the tail in a pattern called black and tan. It includes all other solid colours from light cream through to dark red.
Health
American Cocker Spaniels are susceptible to a variety of illnesses, particularly infections affecting their ears and, in some cases, their eyes. Although the number or percent of afflicted dogs is unknown, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), glaucoma, and cataracts have been presented in some members of the breed. The American Spaniel Club recommends annual eye exams by a veterinary ophthalmologist for all dogs that are to be used for breeding.