American Cocker Spaniel

also known as Merry Cocker, Cocker, Cocker Spaniel

Pros Summary


The American Cocker Spaniel is a small to medium sized dog breed that originated in the United States. They were originally bred as hunting dogs for small game such as birds. The breed was first recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1878. It is also recognized by other kennel clubs and organizations such as the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC). American Cocker Spaniels are known for their friendly, outgoing and affectionate personalities, they make great family pets, but they require regular exercise and consistent training. They are also known for their thick and beautiful coat, which requires regular grooming.

Breed Information


Type

Is American Cocker Spaniel a purebred?

Purebred

Purpose

What were American Cocker Spaniels originally used for?

Hunting, Retrieving Birds

Lifespan

How Long Do American Cocker Spaniels Live? What is average life expectancy for an American Cocker Spaniel? How long can American Cocker Spaniels live?

12-15 years

The average American Cocker Spaniel lifespan is somewhere between 12-15 years, provided they aren't beset by any exceptional health issues or injuries.

American Cocker Spaniel Height & Weight


How big is a full grown American Cocker Spaniel?

What is the average height of an American Cocker Spaniel? How big is an Purebred American Cocker Spaniel height? American Cocker Spaniel dog height:
Height
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 14-15 inches (35.6 - 38.1 cm) 11.5 inches (29.2 cm) 12.5 inches (31.8 cm) 14.5 inches (36.8 cm)
Female 13-14 inches (33 - 35.6 cm) 10.5 inches (26.7 cm) 11.5 inches (29.2 cm) 13.5 inches (34.3 cm)
What is the average weight of an American Cocker Spaniel? How much should American Cocker Spaniels weigh?
Weight
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 25-30 pounds (11 - 14 kg) 19.5 pounds (9 kg) 24.5 pounds (11 kg) 28.5 pounds (13 kg)
Female 20-25 pounds (9 - 11 kg) 16.5 pounds (7 kg) 20.0 pounds (9 kg) 23.5 pounds (11 kg)
Weight Gain Potential

Do American Cocker Spaniels get fat easily?

The American Cocker Spaniel is a breed that has an average to high tendency to gain weight if their weight is not closely monitored. It is important to maintain a balance between exercise and food intake to keep them at a healthy weight. This can be achieved by scheduling at least one daily walk and engaging in regular playtime with them.

Hypoallergenic

Are American Cocker Spaniels Hypoallergenic?

No

Unfortunately, the American Cocker Spaniel is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What is an American Cocker Spaniel personality? What are American Cocker Spaniel dogs best known for?

Outright
Tempered
Merry
Intelligent
Trusting
Joyful
Outgoing
Sociable

Shedding Level

Are American Cocker Spaniels heavy shedders? How Much Does an American Cocker Spaniel Shed?

American Cocker Spaniel dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your American Cocker Spaniel. This will remove loose hair and keep his coat growing in the same direction.

Watchdog Ability

What is the watchdog ability of an American Cocker Spaniel dog?

The American Cocker Spaniel dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, this breed will alert their owner.

Breed History


Origin

Where do American Cocker Spaniels come from?

United States

Ancestry

What are American Cocker Spaniels descended from?

English Cocker Spaniel

Breed recognition

What organizations or kennel clubs recognize/register the American Cocker Spaniel breed?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry

Date of Birth

When were American Cocker Spaniels first bred? How old is the American Cocker Spaniel breed?

1800s

Breed Group

What Breed Group is an American Cocker Spaniel?

Sporting (AKC:1878)
Gun Dog (UKC)

American Cocker Spaniel Appearance


Eye Color Possibilites

What color are American Cocker Spaniel eyes?

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What color can American Cocker Spaniel nose be naturally?

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What color can American Cocker Spaniel coat be naturally?

Black
Brown
Red
Cream
Brindle
Sable
White
Silver
Blue

Coat Length

How long is an American Cocker Spaniels coat?

The coat of an American Cocker Spaniel falls in the medium length category.

Coat Density

How Dense Is The American Cocker Spaniel Coat?

Coat Texture

What is the texture of the hair of an American Cocker Spaniel?

Wavy

Litter Size

How many puppies can an American Cocker Spaniel have in a litter? How many puppies can an American Cocker Spaniel have in her first litter?

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

An American Cocker Spaniel can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

American Cocker Spaniels are known for their adaptability and versatility, they are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments. They are a highly adaptable breed, and make great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

American Cocker Spaniel Health Issues


Health Issues

Do American Cocker Spaniels have a lot of health problems?

The American Cocker Spaniel breed is commonly healthy with low vet costs, regular check-ups may not be as necessary but it's important to keep an eye on their health and have them checked by a veterinarian when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning an American Cocker Spaniel?

Cataracts
Retinal Dysplasia
Seborrhea
Skin Problems

Minor Concerns

What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to American Cocker Spaniels?

Entropion
Ectropion
Corneal Erosion
Phosphofructokinase Deficiency
Skin Fold Dermatitis

Occasional Tests

What are the occasional tests recommended for American Cocker Spaniel breed?

Eye
Hip
Blood
Knee
Dna For Phosphofructokinase Deficiency

American Cocker Spaniel Needs and Activities


Energy

Do American Cocker Spaniels have a lot of energy?

American Cocker Spaniels are known for their high energy levels, so if you're looking for a more low-key dog, this breed may not be the best choice.

Social Needs

Do American Cocker Spaniels need socialization? How social are American Cocker Spaniels?

American Cocker Spaniel have above average social needs compared to other breeds.They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

How much exercise should American Cocker Spaniels get?

The American Cocker Spaniel dog needs significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are also well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.

Sleeping Need

How much sleep should an American Cocker Spaniel have? Do American Cocker Spaniels sleep a lot?

American Cocker Spaniels dogs are tend to sleep less than other breeds, but they still require adequate sleep to maintain good health.

Drooling Tendency

Does an American Cocker Spaniel drool a lot?

The American Cocker Spaniel is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

How much does it bark?

The American Cocker Spaniel is a vocal breed, with a tendency to bark and howl frequently. They may not be the best fit for those seeking a quiet companion. Their barks can vary and can indicate different emotions and needs.

Territorial

Do American Cocker Spaniels exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?

American Cocker Spaniel dogs are known for being average at defending. They possess the capability to defend their territory or owners, but it is not their primary trait. They are not the best choice for guard dogs

Mouthiness

Are American Cocker Spaniels mouthy?

Roaming urge

What is the likelihood of an American Cocker Spaniel running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?

Prey Drive

Do American Cocker Spaniel dogs have a high prey drive?

Past times

What do American Cocker Spaniels enjoy doing? How do I keep my American Cocker Spaniel busy?

Walking, Petting, Sniffing, Fetch, Nap, Cuddling, Running, Play keep away, Walk, Short walks, Sleeping, Sitting, Exploring, Eating Snacks, Nose work, Go to Park, Run, Hike, Chase, Tracking, Snuggling, Chatting, Grooming, Napping, Belly rubs

Activity Level

What is the energy level of an American Cocker Spaniel? How much energy does an American Cocker Spaniel have?

Medium

American Cocker Spaniels are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How far should an American Cocker Spaniel walk each week? How many miles should an American Cocker Spaniel walk every week?

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For American Cocker Spaniel, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

How much an American Cocker Spaniel should exercise a day? How much activity does an American Cocker Spaniel need?

60 minutes

In general most American Cocker Spaniels usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

What level of grooming should be provided for an American Cocker Spaniel?

This breed is known for having high grooming needs.

Brushing Frequency

How often should you brush an American Cocker Spaniel?

Daily

Ideally, American Cocker Spaniel should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What are the most commonly used brushing tools for American Cocker Spaniels?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Dematter
Nail Clipper

Costs


Cups

How many cups of food does an American Cocker Spaniel eat?

2.5 cups

For an average 25-30 pound (11 - 14 kg) American Cocker Spaniel feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

How Much Does an American Cocker Spaniel Cost Daily?

$2.50 - $3.20 / day

The average cost of an American Cocker Spaniel is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.

Monthly Cost

How Much Does an American Cocker Spaniel Cost Per Month?

$74 - $95 / month

The average per month expenses of an American Cocker Spaniel is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

American Cocker Spaniel Characteristic


Intelligence

How intelligent is an American Cocker Spaniel?

The American Cocker Spaniel breed is considered very intelligent and easy to train.

Sensitivity Level

How sensitive is an American Cocker Spaniel dog?

American Cocker Spaniel dogs have average emotions and are adaptable to different situations, not requiring extra care like sensitive breeds do.

Affection Dependance

Are American Cocker Spaniel dogs affectionate?

Apartment Friendly

Do American Cocker Spaniel do well in apartments? Are American Cocker Spaniels good indoor dogs?

American Cocker Spaniels are known for being excellent apartment dogs. They are fairly active indoors and will do okay without a yard.

Child Friendly

Are American Cocker Spaniels good with kids? Are American Cocker Spaniels good around children?

A American Cocker Spaniels typical characteristics indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans

Senior-friendly

Are American Cocker Spaniels good for elderly?

Cat Friendly

Are American Cocker Spaniels good with cats? How friendly American Cocker Spaniels are toward cats?

American Cocker Spaniels are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood,

Dog Friendly

Do American Cocker Spaniel dogs get along with other dogs? Are American Cocker Spaniels OK with other dogs?

American Cocker Spaniels are friendly, active and loyal companions. They generally love to be around other dogs, making them a good family pet for some,

Pet friendly

How do American Cocker Spaniel dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?

Stranger Friendly

Are American Cocker Spaniels friendly with strangers?

American Cocker Spaniels are very friendly around strangers.

Playfulness

Do American Cocker Spaniels like to play? Are American Cocker Spaniels playful?

The American Cocker Spaniel is a playful dog. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for your American Cocker Spaniel is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15-20 minutes, and it will mean the world to them.

Trainability

Are American Cocker Spaniel easily trained?

American Cocker Spaniel dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.

Pros Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Size
    American Cocker Spaniel are small-sized dogs, making them a good option for apartment living or small homes.
  • Personality
    American Cocker Spaniel are friendly, outgoing and make great companions.
  • Boat Dog
    The American Cocker Spaniel breed typically enjoys being on boats.
  • Office Friendly
    American Cocker Spaniels are highly recommended for office environments.
  • Coat
    American Cocker Spaniel have a beautiful, silky coat that comes in a variety of colors.

Cons

  • Tendency to gain weight
    A American Cocker Spaniel's weight can easily become an issue if left unchecked.
  • Barking
    American Cocker Spaniels are known to be a particularly vocal breed.
  • Not Hypoallergenic
    If you have allergies, you may want to avoid American Cocker Spaniels, as they have been known to cause allergic reactions.
  • Energy
    American Cocker Spaniel are high energy dogs and require regular exercise.
  • Medical concerns
    American Cocker Spaniels, like other breeds, may have a predisposition to certain health issues such as Cataracts, Retinal Dysplasia, Seborrhea and Skin Problems.