American Cocker Spaniels come from the United Kingdom and were brought to the United States in the late 1800s. In the United Kingdom they were used as hunting dogs. They are the smallest dog of the sporting breed.

Their usual size is 15” tall and from 18 to 28 pounds in weight.

What stands out the most about these guys are their dark, expressive eyes that reflect a happy, loving, joyful, trusting and active nature. They are eager to please everyone. When a Cocker Spaniel is excited, they not only wag their tail, but their whole back end! They can be good with children and usually sociable and gentle with other pets. They are considered to be “soft dogs” who do not do well with rough or harsh training.

It’s super important to clip the hair from both sides of the ear about 1/3 down the ear flap. This helps to let air flow through the ear canal and reduce the risk of ear infections.

The most famous American Cocker Spaniel is, of course, Lady from Disney’s Lady and the Tramp.

For Health Information about this breed please speak with your Veterinarian. If you do not have a Vet, or are moving to a new city, check out sarahs vetXchange.