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Home , American Cocker Spaniel, Cocker spaniel, Dog type, English Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, Sussex Spaniel

The Cocker

By Sharon Barnhill Breed standards Size: Shoulder height: 38 - 41 cm (15 - 16.5 inches). Weight is around 29 lbs. Coat: Hair is smooth and medium length. Character: This is intelligent, cheerful, lively and affectionate. Temperament: Cocker get along well with children, other , and any household . Training: Training must be consistent but not overly firm, as the dog is quite willing to learn. Activity: Two or three walks a day are sufficient. However, this breed needs to run freely in the countryside on occasion. Most of them love to swim.

Cocker spaniel refers to two modern breeds of dogs of the spaniel : the American and the , both of which are commonly called simply Cocker Spaniel in their countries of origin. It was also used as a generic term prior to the 20th century for a small Spaniel. Cocker spaniels were originally bred as hunting dogs in the , with the term "cocker" deriving from their use to hunt the Eurasian Woodcock. When the breed was brought to the United States it was bred to a different standard which enabled it to specialize in hunting the American Woodcock. Further physical changes were bred into the cocker in the United States during the early part of the 20th century due to the preferences of breeders. Spaniels were first mentioned in the 14th century by Gaston III of Foix-Béarn in his work the Livre de Chasse. The "cocking" or "cocker spaniel" was first used to refer to a type of field or land spaniel in the 19th century. Prior to 1901, Cocker Spaniels were only separated from Field Spaniels and Springer Spaniels by weight. Two dogs are considered to be the foundation sires of both modern breeds, the English variety are descended from Ch. Obo, while the American breed descends from Obo's son, Ch. Obo II. In the United States, the English Cocker was recognized as separate from the native breed in 1946; in the UK, the American type was recognized as a separate breed in 1970. In addition, there is a second strain of English Cocker Spaniel, a working strain which is not bred to a standard but to working ability. Both breeds share similar coat colors and health issues with a few exceptions. History A drawing of two dogs in greyscale, one dark colored and the other is light with dark patches. A drawing of English and Welsh Cockers, from John Henry Walsh's (under the pseudonym "Stonehenge") 1859 work The Dog in Health and Disease While their origins are unknown, "spaniels" are mentioned in 14th century writings. It is commonly assumed that they originated in Spain, and Edward of Norwich, 2nd Duke of York in his 15th century work The Master of Game introduces them as "Another kind of there is that be called for the hawk and spaniels, for their kind cometh from Spain, notwithstanding that there are many in other countries." The Master of Game was mostly an English translation of an earlier 14th century Old French work by Gaston III of Foix-Béarn entitled Livre de Chasse. In 1801, Sydenham Edwards wrote in Cynographia Britannica that the "Land Spaniel" is divided into two types: the hawking, springing/springer and the cocking/cocker spaniel. The term "cocker" came from the dog's use in hunting Woodcocks. During the 19th century the term "cocker spaniel" was used to describe a type of small , which at the time was also a general term to describe a number of different spaniel hunting breeds including the Norfolk Spaniel, and . While there were no Sussex Cockers or Clumber Cockers, there were dogs known as Welsh Cockers and Devonshire Cockers. The Welsh or Devonshire were considered cockers until 1903 when they were recognized by The as the . A drawing of a dark colored cocker spaniel, in profile, facing left. Ch. Obo II, foundation sire of the Prior to the 1870s, the only requirement for a dog to be classed as a Cocker Spaniel was that it needed to weigh less than 25 pounds (11 kg), although breeders separated the cocker from the which remains a smaller breed of spaniel. This maximum weight limit remained on the Cocker Spaniel until 1901, with larger dogs being classed as Springer Spaniels. The colors of the Devonshire and Welsh Cockers were described by John Henry Walsh under the pseudonym Stonehenge in his book The Dog in Health and Disease as being a deeper shade of liver than that of the Sussex Spaniel. Following the formation of in the UK in 1873, efforts were made by breeders to record the pedigrees of cockers and springers. In 1892, English Cocker Spaniels and English Springer Spaniels were recognized as separate breeds by The Kennel Club. There are two dogs which are thought to be the foundation sires of both modern breeds of cocker spaniels. Ch. Obo is considered by breed enthusiasts to be the father of the modern English Cocker Spaniel, while his son, Ch. Obo II, is considered to be the progenitor of the American Cocker Spaniel. Obo was born in 1879, at which point registration as a cocker was still only by size and not by ancestry. He was the son of a Sussex Spaniel and a Field Spaniel. Although Obo was an English dog, Obo II was born on American shores – his mother was shipped to the United States while pregnant. During his lifetime, it was claimed in advertisements that Obo II was the sire or grandsire of nearly every prize winning cocker in America. Modern breeds A diagram showing the difference in heights and body shapes of two dogs A graph showing the height and shape difference between the American and English Cocker. There are two modern breeds of cocker spaniel, the English Cocker Spaniel and the American Cocker Spaniel. They were bred as gun dogs; to use their sense of smell to cover low areas near the handler in order to flush birds into the air to be shot, and to use their eyes and nose to locate the bird once downed, and then to retrieve the bird with a soft mouth. The major differences between the English and American varieties is that the American is smaller with a shorter back, a domed head and a shorter muzzle, while the English variety is taller with a narrower head and chest. Cocker spaniels coats come in a variety of colors including black, liver, red and golden in solids. There are also black and tan, and sometimes liver and tan, as well as a variety of color mixtures of those solid colors including roans, and tans, tricolors and those solid colors with additional white markings. Rare colors can appear unexpectedly in certain lines, for instance while an all-white cocker is usually bred by selective breeding of very light golden strains, they can still appear very uncommonly to parents who are dark colored. A noted occurrence of this happened in 1943, when a grandson of My Own Brucie, Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club in 1940 and 1941, was born all- white. In its native United States, the American Cocker Spaniel was ranked the 23rd most popular breed according to registration statistics of the AKC in 2009, a decrease in popularity since 1999 when it was ranked 13th. For twenty five years the American Cocker Spaniel was the most popular dog in America. It was ranked number one first in 1936 prior to the English Cocker Spaniel being recognized as a separate breed, and held onto the spot until 1952 when became the most popular dog. It regained the spot in 1983 and held on at number one until 1990. In the UK, the American Cocker Spaniel is far less popular than its English cousin with 322 registrations compared to the English Cocker's 22,211 in 2009. English Cocker Spaniel Main article: English Cocker Spaniel A yellow colored dog with floppy ears stands in profile. It's tongue sticks out. A golden English Cocker Spaniel of the show strain Called simply Cocker Spaniel in the UK, this is the breed that was originally recognized by The Kennel Club (KC) in 1892. The (AKC) recognized the English Cocker Spaniel as a separate breed in 1946. The size of the English Cocker Spaniel according to the KC is 15.5–16 inches (39–41 cm) at the withers for males, and 15–15.5 inches (38–39 cm) for females. The weight of a show dog should be 28–32 pounds (13–15 kg). The English Cocker Spaniel is the most successful breed at the most popular dog show in the UK, , with seven best-in-show wins since the prize was first awarded in 1928. This was mostly due to the success of dog breeder H.S. Lloyd's Ware Kennel, dogs of which won best-in-show on six occasions between 1930–1950. They are the second most popular in the UK according to statistics released by the KC with 22,211 registrations in 2009, beaten only by the Labrador with 40,943. In third place was the with 12,700.The English Cocker's popularity has increased steadily since 1999 in the United States when they were ranked 76th in registrations by the AKC, to 2009 when they were ranked 66th There are physical differences between the show strains and working strains in the UK. While the show strain is bred to the standard, the working strain is bred for working ability and as such several physical differences have appeared. Working type dogs tend to be larger with flatter heads and shorter ears. The coat also tends to be finer than the show variety and have less feathering. American Cocker Spaniel Main article: American Cocker Spaniel A yellow colored dog turns sightly towards the camera while standing on a table at a grooming salon. A recently groomed American Cocker Spaniel Cocker Spaniels were recognized by the AKC in 1878. Generally smaller than its English cousin, separate classes were created for the two types in America in 1935 and the Cocker Spaniel Club of America discouraged breeding between the two types in 1938. The American Cocker Spaniel was recognized as a separate breed by the KC in the UK in 1970. The American Cocker Spaniel is referred to as the Cocker Spaniel within the United States. The American Cocker Spaniel was bred smaller as American Woodcocks are smaller than their European cousins, and the breeds appearance changed slightly during the first part of the 20th century as the preference by American breeders was for a more stylized appearance.[7] The standard size according to the AKC is between 14.5–15.5 inches (37–39 cm) at the withers for males and 13.5–14.5 inches (34–37 cm) for females. The weight of the breed is on average between 24–30 pounds (11–14 kg). At the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, the most prestigious dog show in the United States,[30] the American Cocker Spaniel has won best-in-breed on four occasions since its first award in 1907. The most successful breed is the Wire Fox with thirteen wins.[31] The American Cocker Spaniel is judged in three separate breed classes under AKC rules; "black", "parti-color", and "any solid color other than black" (ASCOB). Common health issues In a survey conducted by the Kennel Club (UK), the American Cocker Spaniels had a median age of death of ten years and four months, while the English Cocker Spaniel had a median age of eleven years and two months.[34] According to the survey, the most common cause of death for both breeds was cancer, while old age was the second most common cause. The two modern breeds are susceptible to several health problems. Issues common to the two breeds include ear infections, and a variety of eye problems. A large number of breeds are susceptible to . in a survey conducted by Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, the American Cocker Spaniel was ranked 115th out of 157 different breeds, with 1 being the highest percentage dysplastic and 157 being the lowest percentage dysplastic. The English Cocker was ranked 129th. Health Problems There are several health conditions that the Cocker Spaniel may suffer from. Some are due to poor breeding standards, Other are not related to any specific breed at all, but may affect the Cocker Spaniel at some point in his life. For more information on health issues please contact your Vet.

Ear Care Ear infections are a fairly common problem with dogs and can be quite painful if not detected early and taken care of. Cocker spaniels require regular ear maintenance. Their long floppy ears restrict air flow. Good air circulation in the ear is necessary to prevent ear infections, eliminating the moist environment in which bacteria thrive. If your dog seems to have something wrong with his ears which causes him to scratch at them or shake his head, cautiously explore the ear with a cotton swab. An accumulation of wax will probably work itself out. Dirt, dried blood or foul smelling ears are indications of infection or ear mites and should be treated immediately. Your cocker spaniel will benefit from routine and frequent ear cleaning. A mixture of 1/2 peroxide and 1/2 alcohol can be used, or purchase a good cleansing solution from your veterinarian. Regular ear cleaning will soften and remove dead tissue, debris and wax. The best way to clean ears is to use a paper towel wrapped around a finger. Using cotton swabs to clean the ears could result in damage if you probe too deeply into the ear. Cotton balls may be placed into the ear while bathing to keep ears dry. The typical cocker cut is of much benefit for the cocker's ears. The top 1/3 of the ears are trimmed close, as well as the inside of the ears and neck covered by the ears. This cut will give the dog great air flow to its ears and allow the long, floppy ear look that cockers are known for. Any time your dog visits the veterinarian, ask them to check its ears. An otoscope, a lighted, hand-held tool, will be used. This tool magnifies the ear canal. It can be purchased from supply catalogs and operates on two AAA batteries. If ears are not properly taken care of, enough scar tissue will form. This may result in surgery or loss of hearing. Routine ear care will help prevent problems and also detect problems before they become serious. Otitis externa A spaniel's ear is flipped back, the ear canal is swollen closed. Severe otitis externa in a cocker spaniel, the ear canal is inflamed and swollen shut Cocker spaniels and other dogs that have long, pendulous ears are more predisposed to ear problems than some other breeds. The fold of the ear can prevent air from entering, and it also creates a warm, moist environment where organisms can grow. Otitis externa is an inflammation of the ear canal which can be caused by a variety of factors including parasites, microorganisms, foreign bodies, tumors, and underlying dermatological disease. Ear mites can cause otitis externa; ticks and fleas can also live in dogs' ear canals. The most common canine ear problems are caused by microorganisms, especially yeast infections. The most common variety of this is Malassezia pachydermatitis. Symptoms can include the dog shaking its head or scratching at its ears more frequently. The ear canal will appear inflamed, a pus-like substance will be discharged in some cases, and the ear will smell quite pungent in most cases. Treatment for the more common causes of otitis externa in dogs often includes flushing the ears with an antibacterial solution. In some cases, anti-inflammatory medication is prescribed. Some conditions can increase the chance of ear infections, including living in a humid environment and frequent swimming or bathing without adequate drying of the ear afterwords. Eye conditions Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a term given to several diseases which affect a dog's eyesight and can lead to blindness. It has been documented in a large number of different dog breeds including both the American and English Cocker Spaniels. The two types of Cockers are susceptible to a specific type of PRA called Progressive rod-cone degeneration (PRCD), symptoms include night blindness leading to total blindness between the ages of three and five. PRCD is the most widespread hereditary retinal disease which may lead to blindness in dogs. Another leading cause of blindness is . This is an increase in the pressure of the fluid in the eye which, if left untreated, can cause visual impairment and eventual loss of sight. The condition can be inherited (Primary glaucoma) or a secondary condition to a variety of other eye issues including tumors or lens luxation. Both breeds are affected by juvenile cataracts which can occur at up to four years of age. Symptoms can include discoloring of the pupil, and treatment may include surgery to remove the cataract.

PROLAPSED GLAND OF THE THIRD EYELID (Cherry Eye): When the tear gland of the third eyelid pops out of position, it protrudes from behind the eyelid as a reddish mass. This prolapsed tear gland condition is commonly referred to as "cherry eye". The problem is seen primarily in young dogs, including the Cocker Spaniel, Lhasa Apso, Shih-Tzu, , , and . It's also seen sometimes in certain cat breeds including the Burmese.

Despite its appearance, cherry eye itself is not a painful condition. However, the longer the tear gland is exposed, the more likely it will come irritated and inflamed. If the patient rubs at the eye, it could cause the gland to bleed or become infected. Furthermore, the function of the tear gland could become compromised if the gland is exposed for long periods of time.

To correct cherry eye, surgical REPLACEMENT of the gland is necessary. This treatment is superior to a somewhat older technique of surgically REMOVING the gland. The gland of the third eyelid plays an important role in maintaining normal tear production. We now know that dogs who have had the tear gland removed are predisposed to developing Dry Eye Syndrome later in life. Dry Eye Syndrome is uncomfortable for the patient, and requires the owner to administer topical medications several times a day for the remainder of the patient's life. To avoid this condition, it is preferable to tuck the tear gland back inside the third eyelid, where it can continue to function normally.

The procedures use to correct cherry eye by ophthalmologists vary depending on surgeon preference but a common procedure is called a "pocket technique". Although the gland cannot be put back into its original position in the third eyelid, a new pocket is made near the original position. The tear gland is tucked inside the pocket and the pocket is sutured closed. Aggressive behavior There is no correcting this issue. If you see that the Mother or Father is aggressive, don't buy the Pup. You will be buying trouble if you do. The Cocker Spaniel is a friendly happy dog, This aggressive behavior is due to the back yard breeders and mills neglect over the years. And anyone breeding such dog's is not a respectable breeder. Ear Problems,Skin conditions,Tumors ,Eye / Vision Problems, Coat care The Cocker Spaniel is blessed with a beautiful coat of long flowing hair that requires a great deal of attention. If neglected it can become tangled and knotted. Cocker Spaniels must be brushed and combed thoroughly on a regular basis to keep free of tangles, You will find that cockers love this attention and they learn to expect this. I even have a few that will bring me their brush when they want groomed. You will also need to bath your dog as often as once every 2 weeks. use a shampoo that is formulated for long coats and a good conditioner. If you don't have the time to shampoo and brush your dog, than you may want to try getting it trimmed short. I have most of my dogs trimmed short. It's just easier to care for them that way. Nail care You will need to trim your dogs nails at least every 4-6 weeks. Maybe even sooner depending on the rate of growth for your dog. If you have hard wood floors you will want to keep them cut pretty short. You can learn to do this yourself or take him to the Veterinarians office and have the Vet tech do it for you. Most don't like this, but practice makes perfect. They will become accustom to having it done and will stand for you. Teeth care There is nothing worse than doggie breath. I recommend using greenies and a good . You will need to have his teeth professionally cleaned at the vets office at least once a year. You can also brush his teeth yourself, but this needs to be started at an early age to make it easier on both of you. Feeding I recommend using Purina brand dog and puppy food. You may want to consult you veterinarian about what food is right for your pooch. Steer clear of feeding from the table, and junk food. this is not good for the little guy and could upset his belly. It will also make him not want his . You also need to be on a feeding schedule or offer free choice. Exercise The cocker spaniel is a highly energetic animal and loves to run and play. They need a fenced in back yard to play, However they do very well in an apartment with adequate exercise. Daily walks is highly recommended and would be good for everyone's health. Flea's All dogs get flea's. I recommend using Advantage once a month spot on. You can also treat bedding, toys with Adams flea and tick spray. works great. However you may want to consult you veterinarian about what product would work best for your dog. Also Borax in the carpet. (regular Mule-team Borax)You just sprinkle it on (brush it around with a broom) and vac it up. do this about 2-3x a year. Before you Buy There are a few things you should do before you decide to buy a Puppy. Ask to see the Parents - Look for any health problems in the parents, such as the skin, eyes, and notice their temperament. Ask about the parents health and if they suffer from any of the conditions I have mentioned. Make sure you are not buying from a puppy mill. to do this, ask how many litters they have a year, If they produce a lot of litters, than its a puppy mill. Ask if they are willing to take the Pup/Dog back if you are no longer able to care for him. This should be for the life of the Dog, Any Respectable Breeder would be willing to answer your questions, and may even have a few questions for you. Such as - do you have a fenced in back yard. How much time can you spend with the Puppy every day. and where will you keep the puppy. They also may do a follow up to see how the Puppy has turned out, because they care about what type of Dog's they breed, and want to make sure they produce quality dogs and not quantity. A good breeder can be a great source of information for you and will be willing to answer any of your questions before and after you buy the pup.