The English Cocker Spaniel, also known as the Cocker and the Merry Cocker, is one of the oldest known land dogs descended from the original spaniels of Spain as one of a family of breeds destined to become highly diversified in size, type, color and hunting ability. This breed is distinguished from the American Cocker Spaniel, and there are two types of English Cocker Spaniels: the working spaniel and the show spaniel, which look very different from one another. The English Cocker Spaniel has an extremely happy, affectionate and loyal personality, which gives it the nickname “the Merry Cocker.” This is a terrific breed for families, particularly the show type, as they get along extremely well with children. The average mature male English Cocker stands 16 to 17 inches at the withers, and mature females of this breed are between 15 and 16 inches in height. Males typically weigh between 28 and 34 pounds, while females typically weigh between 26 and 32 pounds. Their coat should be brushed regularly.
Before the seventeenth century, all members of this group of dogs were classified as “spaniels,” regardless of whether they were large or small, long-bodied or short, fast or slow, long-coated or short. Gradually, the size differences made an impression on hunters, and the larger dogs became used more so for springing game, while the smaller ones were used to hunt woodcock and other birds. The names Springer Spaniel, and Cocker or Woodcock Spaniel, naturally followed
English Cocker Spaniels are happy, easy going animals that make excellent companions for families of all shapes and sizes. Their personalities are more consistent than those of their American Cocker cousins, as puppy mills aren't as attracted to the larger English Cocker Spaniel. They are polite to strangers, tolerant with children and easy to train, making them an excellent choice for first time dog owners and families with kids. They love the company of people,
English Cocker Spaniels, like many breeds that originated as working dogs, have some genetic lines that focus on working-dog skills and others that focus on ensuring that the dog's appearance conforms to a breed standard. These are referred to as the "working", or "field-bred", and "show dog" strains.After World War II, the show-bred Cocker Spaniel increased enormously in popular appeal and, for a while, was the most numerous Kennel Club registered breed. This popularity increased
English Cocker Spaniels are a very handsome breed with long ears, round heads and a feathered coat. They are slightly larger than their American cousins, have shorter hair (even where feathered) and their heads lack the abrupt stop of the American version. Additionally, their muzzles are a bit longer than those of the American Cocker. The upper lip should hang down, covering their lower jaw and the preferred bite is a scissor. Black Cockers will
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