Cocker Spaniel (American)

Breed snapshot

• Weight: 9-14 kg.
• Height: 33-41 cms
• Breed size: Medium
• Lifespan: 12-15 years.
• Dog Breed Group: Sporting group.
• Coat Type: Long

Description

The Cocker is traditionally a gun dog and dates back to the 14th century. The American Cocker Spaniel is a medium-sized dog with a flat or slightly wavy silky coat with medium-length hair on the body but short fine hair on the head. The coat comes in any solid colour or combination of colours, and the ears, chest, abdomen and legs are feathered.

Characteristics

Keen to work, cheerful, gentle, active and playful, an American Cocker Spaniel is good in a family and should be socialised well as a puppy to avoid shyness later on. They are considered easy to train however can be difficult to house-train.

Health Problems

American Cocker Spaniels are prone to the following health issues:

• Eye problems: Development of cataracts, glaucoma, and PRA (progressive retinal atrophy), which is a degenerative eye disease. They may also experience prolapse of the nictitans gland, a condition where the third eyelid protrudes from the eye.
• Patellar luxation: This is a condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, causing pain and lameness.
• Other joint issues: American Cocker Spaniels may be prone to hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, both of which can lead to arthritis and pain.
• Skin and ear issues: The breed may experience allergies, seborrhea, lip fold pyoderma, and otitis externa (ear infections).
• Liver disease: They may be at risk for liver disease, which can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
• Immune system disorders: The breed may be prone to IMHA (immune-mediated hemolytic anemia), a condition where the immune system attacks the red blood cells, leading to anemia. They may also be at risk for phosphofructokinase deficiency, which is a genetic disorder affecting the metabolism of glucose.
• Other health issues: Risk for CHF (congestive heart failure), gastric torsion (bloat), and other health issues.

Regular checkups with a veterinarian are essential to monitor for and treat any health issues early on.

Exercise

An American Cocker should receive regular exercise like daily long walks.

Grooming

Wipe under the eyes often as they tend to tear up. A Cocker’s coat will need regular trimming. This breed is an average shedder.

Living conditions

Because it is fairly active indoors, an American Cocker Spaniel will do okay in an apartment if it receives regular daily exercise. It won't like living alone outside in a kennel.