When Cocker Spaniels were imported to North America in the 1880's, the breed gradually changed as breeders produced a smaller dog. By the 1930's , the differences between North American and English cockers were so obvious, efforts were made to split the breeds. In 1947, the original Cocker was renamed the English Cocker Spaniel and the new variety was named American Cocker Spaniel.
American Cocker Spaniels are merry, outgoing, friendly and happy dogs with moderate exercise needs. The ideal height for a male is 15 inches at the withers and 14 inches for a female. They have a silky coat that is flat or slightly wavy. Their ears, chest, abdomen and legs are well feathered. The hair on their heads is short and fine. American Cockers come in three colour varieties - black, ASCOB (any solid colour other than black), and parti-colour (white with markings in another colour. They require frequent brushing and regular trimming on their head, throat and around the feet. |
