American Cocker Spaniel / Cocker Spaniel, Cocker, Merry Cocker

Breed history:

It is the smallest of the spaniel type dogs. The breed originated from the English Cocker Spaniel that was brought from England and was used for bird hunting in a specific American field. Today they are used almost exclusively as companion dogs. 

Description:

It is a small-sized, robust, compact dog, with a square appearance. The skull is round with a prominent stop, the muzzle is broad and deep and the nose is black or brown. The eyes are round, almond-shaped and dark brown. The ears placed low, near the eyes and are covered by long and rich hair. The tail is short, and kept as an extension to the line of its back or higher. The fur on the head is short and has rich fringes on the ears, chest, belly and feet. The coat can have any color such as black, reddish-brown, light beige, bicolor or just multicolor.

Personality:

This dog is very sociable, friendly, gentle, playful, and intelligent. It is obedient and devoted to its master, patient and loving with children, it accepts almost anyone including strangers. It has no problems with other dogs and other animals from the household.

Grooming:

The grooming of the fur is very important, the owner must have time and financial possibilities to visit the beauty saloon. Who can’t afford these things, should not purchase a specimen of this breed. The fur must be combed and brushed daily and trimmed a couple of times a year in a specialized beauty saloon. Unfortunately, this breed has approximately 25 known congenital ilnesses. It is recommended a visit to the doctor in the first weeks of the dog’s life. 

Living conditions:

Cockers will easily adapt to an apartment, especially if they are taken out for daily walks because they have a moderate level of activity. They love to play, to roam, to swim and to play fetch. They also feel great in the yard. Training and socialization is recommended.

Training:

The training of this dog is done easily because it is sensitive to the tone of the voice, it is intelligent and eager to please its master. With a gentle and loving approach, good results can be obtained. 

Usefulness:

It is one of the most famous companion dogs, recommended for old, lonely people.