The size of an American Cocker Spaniel reaches. American Cocker Spaniel breed standard
An upturned nose, long ears with curls and a shaggy forelock hide behind a serious hunting breed. The American Cocker Spaniel has an excellent sense of smell and has been used for hunting game birds for several decades.
Origin story
The American Cocker Spaniel was bred in the USA. In which particular state, and what breeds were used for crossing, reliable information has not been preserved. It is known that the breed was officially recognized in 1880, and in just a few decades it spread throughout the world. The dog was used as a hunting dog, the spaniel copes especially well with birds: duck, capercaillie, guinea fowl. The dog gets the lined game from any reservoir or bush.
Description of the American Cocker Spaniel
Unlike, the American Spaniel has a stocky exterior. The coat on the paws, ears and crown is longer and thicker. The dog belongs to a hyperactive breed, and many breeders compare it to an energizer battery-powered clockwork toy. The American Cocker Spaniel loves outdoor activities and willingly takes part in ball games or chasing. But, despite the excessive activity, the breed is balanced and responds well to any changes. Thick coat and soft undercoat protect the dog from frost in winter and from humidity in summer. But the American Cocker Spaniel is not suitable for outdoor keeping, as the breed is prone to diseases. respiratory system. Drafts and cold winds can cause pneumonia and colds.
Breed standard (appearance)
The description of the breed must match the exterior:
- Body. Compact, muscular.
- Paws. Straight, but not short, with a lean muscular system. The paws are dense, the pads are developed, the claws are long. The color of the claws corresponds to the color of the coat, but more often black. Paws are entirely covered with long fluffy hair.
- Back. Straight shape, wide, without sagging.
- Head. Round with a wide forehead and a pronounced transition to the muzzle. On top of the head is a curly forelock of thick wool.
- Muzzle. Not long, the back of the nose is slightly turned up. The transition from the muzzle to the forehead forms an angle of 90 degrees.
- Nose. The lobe is round, from light liver to black, depending on the color of the dog.
- Eyes. Almond shaped, shallow set but not protruding.
- Bite. Standard scissor.
- Ears. Rounded, drooping, covered with long and dense hair on top. Expand to the base. According to the standard, the tip of the ear should reach the nose, but with skin, not with hair. Ears set low.
- Tail. Thick, saber-shaped, covered with long hair. In the past, the tail of the American Cocker Spaniel was docked by standard. This facilitated the movement of the hunting breed while working through bushes and tall grass. Now spaniels are more often used as a companion, and the tail may not be docked.
- Color. Any standard. Dominant colors: black, chocolate or brown, fawn. A light cream American Cocker Spaniel with brown markings looks unusual.
- Wool. Hard on the back, long, soft and straight on the paws, chest, belly, ears.
- The size. An adult male at the withers can reach 39.4 cm, a female up to 36.8 cm.
- The weight. An adult spaniel weighs up to 12 kg.
Personality of the American Cocker Spaniel
The American Cocker Spaniel differs little from other active breeds. The following character traits stand out:
- Cocker adores his master and is attached to any of the family members. He loves children and enjoys spending time with them.
- mobile dog, which is difficult to sit in one place. Without the release of energy, the dog will come up with an occupation for itself. The apartment will turn into a kind of sports ground;
- can't stand being alone. During a long wait, the owners can damage their property: gnaw on slippers, carpet, furniture;
- loves to chase birds while walking. The hunting instinct is better developed than the others, and the dog will chase birds, while the owner cannot influence the animal;
- does not like drafts and often catches a cold, so he prefers to sleep in an armchair or in a bed with the owner;
- The breed is active and needs daily walks. The dog must get off the leash, minimum time walks 2 hours;
- the dog loves water, so in the summer, walks are chosen closer to an open reservoir. Swimming is the best exercise for a spaniel;
- Be good with other pets. Will sleep with a cat or dog, feeling like one pack.
- the American Cocker Spaniel rarely barks, only giving a voice when chasing game;
- the breed is not protective and does not know how to protect the house or the owner;
- treats strangers with caution, but quickly comes into contact and, with a good attitude, begins to trust a person. Bites in rare cases, expresses dissatisfaction with a growl;
- the breed is of a sports type, so it needs loads: running, jumping, swimming;
- The American Cocker Spaniel is a very sensitive breed. The dog reacts to any changes in the behavior of the owner.
American Cocker Care
The American Cocker Spaniel belongs to the whimsical breeds. The dog has a long and thick coat, so the animal needs constant care. To make the dog feel comfortable, the following rules are followed:
- It is necessary to wash the dog with special shampoos and rinses about once a week.
- Comb out only after washing with conditioner. In no case should you comb dry wool every day!
- After combing the paws, ears and chest are dried with a hair dryer. Excessive moisture provokes the development of bacterial skin lesions.
- In the summer and before exhibitions, the wool is lightly powdered with baby talcum powder. It will collect excess moisture and prevent wool from straying into ugly strands.
- The dog's nails are clipped every two weeks. In the summer, the procedure is carried out less often, as the claws are erased on asphalt and concrete.
- The hair between the pads is sheared, as it collects debris and creates a beneficial environment for the development of bacteria.
- The ears are wiped once a week with a cotton swab dipped in an alcohol solution of boric acid.
- The eyes are treated every two days, mucus, dust and dirt are removed. It is easier to clean the eyes with a damp cotton pad and chamomile decoction.
- Dog grooming is essential from an early age. The coat on the paws, ears and chest is evened out. On the back, the coat is shorter and stiffer, it is enough to comb it regularly.
- The dog is allocated a separate place in the house. The bed is kept away from drafts. Separate narrowed bowls are purchased for the American Cocker, which will protect the dog's ears while eating.
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Breed health
Puppies break away from the mother's breast at 1–1.5 months. Up to a year, a puppy is susceptible to various viral and bacterial diseases. The first vaccinations are given before the change of milk teeth in Cocker. Initially, the dog is vaccinated against plague and enteritis. You can use a mono graft. But complex preparations will reduce the risk of infection, since vaccines against plague, hepatitis, enteritis, leptospirosis, and adenovirus can be combined in one ampoule. Rabies is vaccinated separately, closer to the year of the animal. The puppy requires vaccination and revaccination at intervals of no more than 3 weeks. A veterinarian will tell you the exact date of re-vaccination after the first vaccination.
The American Cocker Spaniel is prone to the following diseases:
- Otitis. Inflammation of the ear can be avoided if the treatment is carried out in time and antiseptics are used.
- Cataracts, conjunctivitis and other eye diseases. Treat with special drops and antibiotics.
- Inflammation of the lungs, bronchitis. The dog should not be supercooled and lie in drafts.
- Allergic reaction. Mostly food related.
Life expectancy depends on genetic predisposition, nutrition and care of animals. On average, the life expectancy of the breed is up to 13 years.
puppy training
It is necessary to start training a puppy immediately after he gets used to the nickname. The dog learns basic commands: sit, place, fu, lie down, come to me, beside me, walk. Training takes place in a playful way, otherwise an active dog loses interest in learning and asks to run.
In training, the dog is encouraged with special treats. Spaniels are not suitable for human biscuits or sausage, as the breed has a predisposition to food allergies.
To train your dog, you will need a leash, collar or harness. Mini representatives of the breed are driven on a harness so as not to wash the hair on the neck. For spaniels, a basic training course is sufficient. The guard course is not suitable for the breed. To learn hunting skills, the owner takes the animal into the forest along with experienced dogs.
Feeding
The American Cocker Spaniel often suffers from indigestion and has a tendency to become obese. Food allergies also make their own adjustments to the diet, so it is easier to use specialized dry food for feeding: Royal Canin Cocker Adult, Go Sensitivity + Shine Turkey Dog Recipe, Brit Care. Any brand is suitable for small breeds with sensitive digestion and a tendency to allergies.
Mixed feeding is also allowed. Natural products are added to the diet:
- fermented milk: cottage cheese, kefir, low-fat sour cream;
- lean meat: beef, turkey, rabbit meat;
- cereals: rice, buckwheat, oatmeal flakes;
- quail eggs, no more than 1 per day;
- seafood without bones and shells.
If the dog's diet consists only of natural food, then it is supplemented vitamin complexes. Vitamins are suitable for a spaniel:, Hokamix 30, Beaphar Duo Active.
Video
A photo
Pictured is a black and white American Cocker Spaniel. Black and curly ears give the dog attractiveness. 
A red-haired cocker with a mischievous curly forelock looks pretty. 
The chocolate color of the puppies makes them look more like little cubs. 
A small hunting dog. To date, the breed is increasingly being used as a companion dog, as a pet, and thanks to its beautiful coat, it is prestigious to participate in various exhibitions with it.
The American Cocker Spaniel is a direct descendant of the English Cocker Spaniel and first appeared in the 18th century in America.
At that time, the Cocker breed was divided into two groups:
- cocker (more squat and shallow)
- springer (larger with long legs).
AT mid-nineteenth centuries in the genus of spaniels began to distinguish clearly defined breed differences, as a result of which toy spaniels, Clumbers and Sussexes appeared. At that time, all spaniels, with the exception of "that", must weigh at least 6 kilograms in order to be effective assistants during the hunt.
In 1856, during the American show, Cockers were first shown as a separate class, but over time the breeds were again mixed both in the ring and in breeding. In 1893, the Cocker Spaniel breed was officially approved by the London Kennel Club. At that time, Cocker Spaniels already had a number of breed differences that distinguished him from his relatives. 1946 - The American Cocker Spaniel is recognized as a separate breed by the American Kennel Club.
The domestic history of this breed began only in 1977, when the first litter of fawn puppies was born. At that time it was a rare breed, but dog lovers did not stop there, and improved the breed every year. Thanks to the efforts made, today we have a purebred American Cocker Spaniel.
Description and breed standard American Cocker Spaniel
- The distance from the prominence of the sternum to the buttock is slightly longer than the distance from the withers to the ground.
- The body must be of sufficient length to ensure a straight and free stride; the dog should never look long and squat.
- Skull : Moderately rounded but spherical and not nearly flat; superciliary ridges are clearly defined. Under the eyes, the head is well filled.
- Stop (transition from forehead to muzzle): well defined.
- the color of the nose in black, black and tan and black and white dogs is black.
- in dogs of other colors, a brown, liver or black nose is acceptable, the darker the better.
- the color of the nose should be in harmony with the color of the stroke of the eyelids.
American Cocker Spaniel puppies photo in a lounger
American Cocker Spaniel puppy photo in a basket
- Shoulder blades : Well laid back, forming an angle of humeroscapular articulation of approximately 90 degrees, which allows freedom of movement, the spaniel is able to throw the limbs far forward. The shoulder blades are sloping, clearly defined, without protrusions and set so that the highest points of the shoulder blades are at an angle that provides a wide bend in the ribs.
- Elbows: Seen from the side, the forelegs are vertical, the elbows are exactly under highest point shoulder blades, looking strictly back, should not be turned either in or out.
- Pasterns: short, strong.
- Paws: compact, large with hard pads; cannot be turned inward (clubfoot), nor outward. Dewclaws on the forelimbs can be removed. Claws are strong.
- Croup : Broad in croup, rounded, muscular.
- Thighs : Powerful, well-defined.
- knee joints : Strong, no inward or outward shift when standing or moving, with moderate angulations.
- hocks: strong, carried low.
- Hocks: strong, short. The dewclaws on the hind legs can be removed.
- Paws : compact, large, rounded with hard pads; turned neither in nor out. Claws are strong.
- The hair on the head is short and soft; on the body - medium length with a dense undercoat.
- The coat on the ears, chest, belly and limbs is denser and longer, but should not obscure the outline of the spaniel's body, its movements or distort appearance and functions of a hunting dog.
- It is undesirable to cut off the hair on the back with an electric clipper. Trimming should emphasize the natural outline of the dog.
Disadvantages: any deviation from the above is considered as a disadvantage, and the assessment depends on the accuracy of the relationship with the degree of this deviation.
- The above colors are the only allowed colors or combinations of colors. Any other colors or combinations of colors are disqualified.
- Black color: white spots, except for the chest and throat.
- ASCOB: White patches other than chest and throat.
- Spotted color: 90% or more of the main color.
- Burn marks, occupying more than 10%.
- Absence of tan marks on blacks and ASCOBs in any of the places indicated.
- Males - above 39.4 cm; Bitches over 36.8 cm.
Photo of american cocker spaniel on grass with fluffy coat
Black and black and tan. Black should be clean and shiny; Shades of brown or liver are undesirable. A small white spot on the chest and/or throat is allowed; White color in any other area is considered a disqualifying fault.
ASCOB (any solid color other than black). This color includes any solid color other than black - from light cream to dark red, including brown and brown and tan. Color must be clean, but lighter tones are acceptable. A small white spot on the chest and/or throat is acceptable. DISQUALIFYING FAULTS: White spots anywhere else are considered a fault.
Spotted Two or more well-demarcated colors, one of which must be white.
- black and white
- Red-white (from light cream to dark red)
- Brown and white (including tan)
- Roan (speckled) dogs are classified as spotted, and can be any of the usual speckled variants. A base color that is 90% or more will be disqualified.
Combinations of any of these colors with tan are also acceptable. The tan markings should be in the same places as on black and tan and brown and tan specimens.
The color of the markings can be from light fawn to dark red and they should not exceed 10% of the main color. Tan marks exceeding 10% of the main color are disqualified. On black or ASCOB individuals, the markings should be positioned as follows:
- spots over both eyes
- on the sides of the muzzle and on the cheeks
- on the inside ears
- on all paws or limbs
- area under the tail
- on the chest (optional, the presence or absence is not a defect)
Disqualifying vices
- The absence of tan in the indicated places or the presence in places not indicated by the standard in a black-colored spaniel or ASCOB subgroup.
- Blurred or slightly pronounced tan and tan on the sides of the muzzle, merging on the back of the nose
Note: Males must have two full, normally developed testicles fully descended into the scrotum.
American Cocker Spaniel character
By nature, the American Cocker Spaniel is a very energetic, cheerful, agile and friendly breed. Sometimes wary of strangers and strangers, but rather obedient dog.
Most of all he likes to spend time with the owners, playing with them, loves attention to himself. There are individuals with a rather jealous temperament, but this trait can be smoothed out by timely upbringing and training.
The American Cocker Spaniel is very fond of children, loves to participate in their games. Small and compact size allows you to keep a spaniel in a city apartment. He feels the mood of the owner well, is ready to support and empathize with him, in this breed this quality is expressed quite strongly.
The American Cocker Spaniel is highly trainable, quickly memorizing commands and following them with enthusiasm. They are excellent hunters, as they have it in their blood. In the case when the owner of the cocker is an avid hunter and is going to take the dog with him on a hunt or just into the forest, it is necessary to prepare the pet for the upcoming work. The coat is shortened for the dog, so the spaniel will not freeze, getting prey out of the water, and will not get tangled in the bushes.
American Cocker Spaniels are excellent circus performers, rescuers and drug hunters.
The natural desire to please the owner as much as possible can be successfully used in training and bring up an excellent friend and companion.
Maintenance and care of the American Cocker Spaniel
Caring for the American Cocker Spaniel is time-consuming and mandatory, but the work justifies itself. The spaniel has an irresistible coat, and in order for it to look healthy, beautiful and well-groomed, the owner must adhere to the rules of proper care.
Comb 2-3 times a week with a natural bristle brush or metal comb. The combing procedure will remove dead hair, remove dust, improve blood circulation and prevent the formation of tangles and hair problems.
Bathe the Cocker every 7-10 days, or depending on the pollution. For bathing, use a special shampoo for long-haired dogs with balm and conditioner. After, the wool is dried with a hair dryer for proper styling. AT winter time bathing a spaniel is recommended once a month. The American Cocker Spaniel needs a professional grooming four times a year.
For general grooming (hair care) you will need the following tools:
- massage brush
- metal combs, with rare and frequent blunt teeth
- scissors
- slicker
- electric machine
For a neat Cocker look, stick to simple rules and your pet will always look well-groomed.
- first, comb all the hair with a brush.
- Use a fine-toothed comb to comb through the hair on the body.
- a comb with rare teeth in those places where the hair is more authentic: chest, sides, paws, tail, ears.
- scissors cut the hair on the paws (once every 2 months), the excess wool is cut off in the upper part of the leg, on the sides, under the paws and between the fingertips.
After completing all the procedures, do not forget to praise the pet and treat it with a treat.
Regularly inspect the eyes of the American Spaniel, and if you notice souring, gently wipe it with a soft, lint-free cloth soaked in warm water or chamomile decoction. If you notice profuse souring, tearing, swelling of the eyelids and redness of the eyes, be sure to show your pet to the veterinarian.
Hanging ears of a spaniel are regularly inspected, wipe the auricle with a cotton pad dipped in warm water, remove dust and sulfur. Once every 2-3 weeks, the hair around the ear canal is cut. Excess hair does not allow the passage of air, irritates the ear and can cause infection. Lop-eared dogs regularly ventilate their ears to let air in. Just wave your pet's ears like butterfly wings, that will be enough.
Cut the nails once a month with a nail cutter, process the sharp ends with a nail file to avoid chips and burrs.
American Cocker Spaniel food
Photo of a black american cocker spaniel
The nutrition of the American Cocker Spaniel must be correct and balanced in order for the dog to grow up healthy and active. The main thing is to follow certain rules that are suitable for different ages of your pet.
The American Cocker Spaniel belongs to a number of hunting dogs, therefore, it is very mobile. Therefore, nutrition must be nutritious and provided with the necessary amount of vitamins and minerals.
Do not forget about water - a bowl with clean drinking water should always be available to the dog.
In order for the puppy’s body to form correctly, dairy products, which are rich in calcium and vitamins, must be included in the diet, and when the puppy is two months old, sea fish is introduced into the diet. It is important to clean the fish from the bones so that the puppy does not choke!
Protein food must be present, which will give the body energy, and vegetables and cereals are necessary for proper digestion. Feeding a 2-month-old puppy should be up to 6 times a day, which will gradually move up to 2 times by the year.
It is important to remember the bones for adult dogs, or rather, pork and beef ribs, the use of which develops the correct bite in a dog and is an excellent prevention of tartar.
With proper nutrition, you will ensure a healthy life for your dog.
American Cocker Spaniel Training
American Cocker Spaniel photo at the exhibition
The training of the American Cocker Spaniel can be divided into two main stages.
The first stage is to learn the basic commands that are necessary for living in society:
- "It is forbidden"
- "To me"
- "Beside"
- "Sit"
These commands are the main part of raising a young pet, and he will easily remember them.
The second stage of training is to study applied commands - "Give", "Aport" and so on. It is recommended to start this stage no older than 4 one month old dogs. These stages of training imply the principle of reward for the executed command. When the dog is ready to execute the command, then a signal is given and when it is executed, it receives a treat. Thus, conditional-behavioral reflexes will be developed. If you intend to develop hunting instincts, then you need to engage in field training - the development of hunting instincts that nature itself has laid down.
American Cocker Spaniel photo in winter near the fireplace
For example, in order for a pet to work on a certain type of game, it must be accustomed to the smell of the required bird, and already during the hunt, the dog itself will be able to find the necessary game and lift it into the air, bring or stand in the rack in the right direction. Often enough to develop these instincts, a young dog is allowed to hunt with more experienced dogs to "teach" newbies. This type of training is recommended to be carried out with a professional trainer.
If you want to buy an American Cocker Spaniel, remember that this is a hunting dog that loves long walks and physical activity in order to be in shape.
The recommended walking time for a Cocker is at least half an hour each walk. Be sure to let your pet off the leash, he must run, jump, climb stairs and other obstacles. Proper nutrition, timely training and care guarantee you a beautiful and faithful friend for the whole family.
Diseases of the American Cocker Spaniel
- urolithiasis disease
- chronic hepatitis
- seborrhea
- melanoma
- epilepsy
- hypothyroidism
- cataract
- glaucoma
- progressive retinal degeneration
- corneal dystrophy
- corneal ulcer
GENERAL FORM:
The American Cocker Spaniel is the smallest representative of the group of sporting dogs. It has a strong, compact body and a refined head in perfect proportion to the size of the dog. It is characterized by high forequarters with straight forelegs and a slightly sloping topline from the withers to a powerful, moderately rounded croup. The American Cocker Spaniel is able to develop considerable speed and has great endurance. And most importantly - he must be energetic and cheerful, healthy and well balanced in all respects and show an ardent desire to work in the ring. A dog that is well balanced in all respects is more desirable than a dog with a sharp contrast of strengths and weaknesses.
SIZE, PROPORTIONS, FORMAT:
The ideal height at the withers for an adult male is 15 inches, for an adult bitch 14 inches. Deviations from the specified ideal growth by 1/2 inch in one direction or another are possible. Growth above the standard is a disqualifying fault, and adult growth below the standard is considered a fault. Height is measured in a vertical line from the top of the shoulder blades to the floor, with the dog in a natural stance and the forelegs and hindquarters parallel to the line of measurement. The distance from the sternum to the ischial tuberosity is somewhat greater than the distance from the upper edge of the shoulder blades to the floor. The body should be long enough to allow free, straight movements; The dog must never look stretched and low on the legs.
HEAD:
The correct proportions of the head, which must be balanced with the rest of the body, meets the following requirements: the expression of the eyes is intelligent, lively, soft, touching; eyes - the eyeball is round, full, the gaze is directed forward. The line of the eyelids gives the eyes a slightly almond shape; the eye is neither protruding nor deep-set. The color of the iris is dark brown and darker is generally preferred. Lightened iris is often found in chocolate dogs or those with the chocolate color gene. An aggressive look is considered a serious vice.
EARS:
Blade-shaped, long, thin linen, covered with abundant adorning hair and set no higher than the lower edge of the eye.
SCULL:
Rounded, but not overly domed, by no means flat. The superciliary ridges are clearly marked, the transition from the forehead to the muzzle is sharp. The bone structure of the infraorbital space is clearly carved, the cheekbones are flat. The muzzle is wide, deep with square even jaws. With the correct structure of the head, the distance from the transition to the tip of the nose is equal to half the length of the skull. A perfectly occluded skull is rare, more often it is flat, mainly due to the wide occiput. Sometimes the skull looks massive due to the narrow muzzle. The most desirable muzzle is square, with a blunt edge, approximately equal in width to the cranial part, and not an "electric light bulb". The shallow transition from the forehead to the muzzle changes the angle of the muzzle, it seems lowered and long. With a deep transition, it looks upturned.
NOSE:
Fairly large, in proportion to the muzzle and facial part of the head. With well developed nostrils, typical of sporting dogs; black in black, black and tan and black and white, in dogs of other colors it may be brown, liver or black, but a darker color is preferred. The color of the nose corresponds to the color of the rim of the eyelids. The upper lip is voluminous and long enough to cover the lower jaw. In winter, the eyelids and nose brighten, this is a “seasonal” or “winter” nose. Spotted may have pink spots on the eyelids, lips.
TEETH:
Strong, healthy, not too small, meeting in a scissor bite. Non-closure is a serious disadvantage. Deep "scissors" - a rarity, more often in dogs with a narrowed muzzle of an undesirable type. Dogs with a short square muzzle are most desirable, with a strong wide chin often having a very tight bite. Then the correctness of the bite is checked “for a click”: the fingernail is carried out from the lower incisors to the upper ones. If the nail clings to slightly protruding upper incisors, then the bite is considered a tight scissor bite. In dogs with a short, square muzzle, there is often a peculiar position of the lower borders - a pair of incisors located next to the canines. They are arranged in a line with other incisors of the lower jaw, but when the jaws are closed, they protrude forward, closing with the upper edges in a direct bite or go a little for a snack. If such a position of the edges does not violate the scissor bite, then it is not punished. Often this happens in young dogs, with age the tops of the lower edges are erased and the closure becomes flawless. Since 1992 completeness of teeth is not required. Of course, incomplete teeth are undesirable, it is transmitted to part of the offspring. In children of incomplete teeth, not the first, but also the second, third premolars may be absent. Sometimes Americans have one or two extra incisors or premolars. Because of this, the assessment of the dog is not reduced, and even more so, puppies are not rejected: after all, after the change of teeth, the number of permanent ones can be normal. All deviations in the dental system are noted during the examination and are taken into account in breeding work.
NECK, TOPLINE, BODY:
The neck is long enough for the nose to easily reach the ground, muscular, without dewlap, tapering smoothly from the shoulders to the head, with a slight nape.
The topline slopes smoothly to a muscular croup.
The chest is deep, its underline reaching no higher than the elbow, and wide enough in the forequarters to provide adequate seating for the heart and lungs, but not so wide as to interfere with the free reach of the forelegs.
Ribs are long and rounded.
The back is strong, smoothly descending from the shoulders to the base of the docked tail.
docked tail carried at the level of the back or slightly higher; it should not be carried high over the back, as in terriers, or hung down from timidity. In movement, the dog cheerfully works its tail. The length of the neck is measured from the occiput to the withers - the place where the upper edges of the shoulder blades converge.
"Top" - the upper line of the body, consisting of thoracic, lumbar and croup. The top line should be like a stretched string, without overtracking (depression behind the shoulder blades), without sagging, not "wobbly" in motion, "strong". In the stance, it is not difficult to depict the correct topline, it is enough to make the dog sit down slightly on its hind legs (“low stance”). The main thing is to “hold the top” in motion and in a natural stance. Sometimes the top "wobbles" due to the elongated loin and short croup.
The tail must be docked. In some countries, "merciful" environmentalists have banned this 300-year-old practice.
FRONT END:
The shoulders are set obliquely, the scapula forms an angle equal to approximately 90 degrees with the humerus, which makes it easy to throw forward the front legs. The shoulders are well defined and drop smoothly, without protrusion, so that the tops of the shoulder blades meet at an angle which ensures a good roundness of the ribs. When viewed from the side of the forelimbs in a vertical position, the elbow is located strictly under the upper point of the scapula.
Forelimbs Straight, parallel, strong boned, muscular and close fitting to the body just under the shoulder blade.
Pasterns are short and strong. Fifth toes on front feet may be removed. The feet are compact, large, round, strong, with hard pads, without turning in or out.
REAR END:
The hips are wide, the croup is well rounded, muscular. Seen from behind, the hind legs are parallel in movement and in the stance.
Hind limbs with strong bones, muscular, with moderately pronounced angles of the knee joints and powerful hips with relief muscles. The knee joints are large, without eversion, both in motion and in the stance. The hocks are strong, set low from the floor. The dewclaws on the hind legs may be removed.
If the pelvis and croup are narrow, then the hind legs, even straight and parallel, in motion seem to cling to each other, “braid”. Long hair on the hind legs (“trousers”) only emphasizes this shortcoming.
COAT COAT:
On the head, the hair is short and fine; on the body - medium length, with an undercoat sufficiently developed to protect the dog. The ears, chest, belly, and limbs are covered with adorning hair, well developed, but not so much as to obscure the true constitution and movements, or change the appearance and function of the Cocker as a moderately dressed sporting dog. The coat should be silky, straight or slightly wavy and of a structure that allows for easy care. Excessively developed, curly or chubby should be severely punished. Cutting the back with an electric clipper is undesirable. Trimming should emphasize natural lines and be done in such a way that the dog looks as natural as possible.
COLORS AND MARKINGS:
- BLACK COLOR. The group of solid black dogs includes black and tan. The black color should be pitch black, brown and liver tones of the coat are undesirable. Small white markings on the throat and/or chest are acceptable. On all other parts of the body, white markings are a disqualifying fault. A brownish tint occurs in young dogs during molting, but does not at all indicate the presence of a chocolate color gene.
- ANY SOLID COLOR EXCEPT BLACK - "ASCOB".
- Any solid color other than black, from light cream to dark red, including brown and brown and tan. Color should be uniform; small white markings on the chest and/or throat are acceptable. On all other parts of the body, white markings are a disqualifying fault. In dogs of a solid non-black color, often decorating hair on the limbs, ears, belly of a lighter tone.
- MIXED COLORS Two or more solid colors in well-demarcated patches, one of which must be white; black and white, white and red (red can be from light cream to dark red), brown and white, Rouen (roan), including a combination of these colors with tan. The arrangement of tan marks is preferably the same as that of black and ASKOB. The group of dogs of mixed color includes Rouen (roan) dogs of any type of ordinary Rouen color. Ground color area of 90 percent or more is a disqualifying fault. In black and ASKOB dogs, tan marks should be located in the following places a clear spot above each eye; on both sides on the muzzle and cheekbones; on the inner surface of the ears; on the limbs; under the tail; chest (optional). Indistinct tan or the presence of only traces of tan is a fault. Tan rising from both sides of the muzzle and merging on the back of the nose is also a fault. The absence of tan marks in black dogs and ASKOB in any of the indicated places, the presence of tan marks in other places is a disqualifying fault.
MOVEMENTS:
The American Cocker Spaniel, although the smallest of the sporting dogs, has the movements typical of this group. The key to proper movement is balance between the front and back of the body. The powerful rear part of the body sends a strong push forward, which, with the correct structure of the shoulder and forelimbs, is transmitted to the front part of the body and provides a free, wide reach of the forelimbs. Movements should be first of all coordinated, smooth, without tension. The movements of the dog should be sweeping. Excessive playfulness cannot be mistaken for correct movements.
TEMPERAMENT:
Balanced, without signs of timidity. The American Cocker Spaniel is friendly to people and dogs, cheerful, loves to be paid attention to.
DISQUALIFYING FAULTS american cocker spaniel:
Color and markings:
Only the above colors or combinations thereof are allowed. All other colors or combinations of colors are disqualifying.
- BLACK COLOR - White markings, except for white markings on the throat I and / or chest.
- OTHER SOLID COLORS OTHER THAN BLACK (ASCOB) - White markings other than white markings on the throat and/or chest.
- MIXED COLORS - the area of the main color is 90 percent or more.
- BURNINGS - the area of scorching is more than 10 percent; the absence of tan marks in black dogs and ASKOB in the proper places; fell on other places.
Growth:
- males - over 15.5 inches
- females over 14.5 inches.
The American Cocker Spaniel is a breed bred two centuries ago for poultry. It is believed that the first representative of amkokers was registered in the USA in the 1880s, and then American cockers spread around the world, intriguing hunters and lovers of medium dogs with their external and intellectual data.
The modern American Cocker Spaniel is somewhat different from the original breed, but many of the key features have survived and passed through two centuries. Today we will talk about the history of the origin of the American-type Cocker Spaniels, highlight the modern breed standard, analyze what features, temperament and character these dogs have, and also find out how to care for the American Spaniel, in particular, its coat.
American Cocker Spaniel in show grooming
The forerunners of the modern American-style Cocker Spaniel are dogs bred in Spanish lands rich in hunting grounds. Stocky dogs with long floppy ears, similar to modern Cockers, were kept by the Crusaders, who went hunting with them in the hope of getting small game, such as rabbits, ducks or woodcocks. From sunny Spanish land, dogs were taken to England, where breeders took up the purity of the breed and brought out their own species, also separated into an independent one - English spaniels.
When the English Cockers were already considered an independent breed, took part in exhibitions and were allowed to breed, American Cockers did not exist. The most eminent and professional breeder of Cocker Spaniels of that time was considered James Farrow, whose breeding dogs won at international exhibitions and were the standard of breed. Obo and Chloe, a pair of Farrow-bred Cockers, were shipped to the US and are considered the progenitors of the American Cocker Spaniel.
History has preserved records stating that already in the USA, a pair of English Cockers had puppies, distinguished by large eyes and a shortened muzzle. They decided not to cull the offspring (as they would have done in the Old World), but to try to breed the new kind spaniels, fixing cute external data. So the exterior of the dogs, leading their line from the first big-eyed puppies, acquired characteristic features: a snub nose, large, slightly protruding eyes, a short muzzle, a bulging forehead, lush hair with a rich undercoat.
English Cocker Spaniel
At first, English and American Cockers were knitted together, infusing new blood. However, the difference between the species became more and more obvious, so such matings were banned, continuing to work on the exterior of each breed separately. American Cocker Spaniels have been an officially recognized breed since 1946.
American Cocker Spaniel puppies
Description of the breed American Cocker Spaniel
American Cockers are significantly different from other spaniels, although even a person who is far from cynology can notice common features. What is the difference between spaniels from the USA? First of all, dogs are distinguished by luxurious, silky and thick hair, which forms a fluffy skirt, falling from the body of the animal. Also, American-style Cockers are distinguished by long fluffy ears hanging almost to the ground.
Representatives of the breed are small, but muscular and powerful animals, with light movements, in need of long active walks. Despite the fact that modern Cockers are rarely used for hunting, the dogs have retained their dynamics, craving for running, swimming and long movements. By the way, even before the 1900s, the amcokers had their tails cut off (cut off), leaving four vertebrae, that is, half of the tail. This measure was taken so that the animals would not injure their tails by wagging them while hunting. The procedure was carried out in the first days of the puppies' life, until the bones were completely formed. AT last years this operation is not always carried out, as it is recognized as inhumane, and the breed tends more and more to be decorative.
American Cocker Breed Standard
Like any independent breed, American Cockers have a fixed standard of conformation and character, which every breeder strives for and which a dog with a pedigree must meet. Recall that cockers belong to the eighth FCI group - "Hunting, gun" - and are included in the second section, that is, they do not need working tests.
The ideal representative of the breed is a compact, energetic dog. American Cockers are well built, have a harmonious proud head, light dynamic movements, friendly disposition. Let us dwell on the anatomical, exterior standard in more detail.
Table. General form american cocker spaniel
| Criterion | Characteristic |
|---|---|
| Head | Harmonious, in good proportion with the rest of the body, body. Deep, wide, square shape. Strong jaws, scissor bite. The nose is dark in color, large (depending on the color of the dog, it may be dark brown). The length of the muzzle is half the length of the line of the skull |
| Frame | Straight, strong, straight back, arched muscular neck, tail set rather high, lively in motion. The chest is wide, of sufficient depth, but does not interfere with the correct position of the limbs |
| limbs | Strong, strong, signs of clubfoot or splaying are not allowed. Muscular front and hind legs, strong rear drive |
| Eyes | Rounded or almond-shaped cut, rather large, with a touching, touching, deep expression. The shade of the eyes should be dark, regardless of color. |
| Ears | Long, hanging down, with soft, slightly wavy hair, set low - at eye level. |
| Wool, colors | On the head there is short but soft hair, the body is already covered with elongated hair, forming a “skirt”, descending from the body of the animal to the paws, but not hiding the structure of the dog. The coat is pleasant to the touch, silky, should be straight or slightly wavy (no wadding or cotton structure, curls allowed), well fitting to the body. Permissible colors: black or black and tan, spotted (white with black, brown or red spots), roan and tan, ascob (any base color without spots, except black). White spots on the throat and chest are acceptable in any color. Elsewhere, white markings are considered a fault. |
| Dimensions | Height 38 centimeters for males, 35-36 centimeters for females (at the withers). The weight of animals varies between 8-12 kilograms. The dog is built harmoniously, compactly, does not look squat, but is not stretched either. |
| movements | The dog has good coordination, moves freely, smoothly, while sweeping and dynamic, but not fussy |
| Temperament | Balanced, energetic, friendly, without signs of aggression, anger, cowardice |
Temperament of the American Cocker Spaniel
The breed standard includes not only external features, but also the character of dogs. Conscientious breeders of American Cocker Spaniels approach the issue of temperament with great attention, not allowing cowardly, aggressive animals prone to anger, attacks on humans or other animals.
Accordingly, the typical American Cocker is a friendly, loyal, playful dog, ready to be next to the owner and his family every minute. These Cockers are great as companions for a single energetic person, and as a dog for families and children. The dog will not offend the child, on the contrary, it will become a constant companion for him in games, running around and pranks. Cockers are gentle and affectionate dogs, so even babies can be left with them.
But, despite the fact that the American Cocker puppy is plush, big-eyed and charming, you should not admire this, at first glance, a toy dog. Representatives of this breed have a strong, quick-witted and reckless character, Cockers lend themselves perfectly to training and get great pleasure from “working” interaction with a person. Therefore, it is necessary to train a pet from an early age in order to avoid such problems as damage to household property, barking and howling in the absence of a person, running away on walks or pulling on a leash, which turns a Cocker Spaniel into a test.
The Cocker Spaniel can sit in one place, but not for long.
It is not recommended to get a Cocker Spaniel for people who are often absent from home (the dog does not tolerate long loneliness), as well as for those who do not like long walks, trips to nature, and are not ready to devote several days a week to training the animal.
Diseases of American Cockers
Despite the fact that the American Cocker Spaniel is a fairly strong dog with a high life expectancy (14-16 years), the breed is characterized by some characteristic diseases. The owner needs to be aware of breed ailments in order to notice deterioration in the pet’s condition in time and take timely measures.
American Cocker Spaniels are prone to eye disease.
In particular, American-type Cocker Spaniels are prone to eye diseases: ulcers and corneal dystrophies, cataracts or glaucoma. Often these ailments affect older pets, but they can occur at any age. It is important that these diseases can be hereditary. When buying a puppy, priority should be given to breeders who offer litters from sires (male and female) that have passed tests for hereditary eye diseases. If the breeder has negative results for these diseases, the chances that a dog from such a litter will suffer from them are significantly reduced.
Experts identify a number of diseases that cockers are prone to:
- food allergies;
- otitis;
- urolithiasis disease;
- seborrhea.
Knowing about the predisposition of the breed to these problems, the owner must properly care for the dog, preventing the development of ailments. Such prevention includes a competent balanced diet, ear and eye care, regular water procedures.
We mentioned above that American Cockers are active dogs that require a lot of attention and a lot of activity. This dog cannot be put on the sofa, the spaniel needs long walks with games, training, field trips, where the pet can throw out energy, swim, run around.
Another challenge in keeping American Spaniels is caring for their rich coat. From a very young age, a puppy should be taught regular bathing and brushing. Let's dwell on these points in more detail.
How to groom an American Spaniel?
You need to bathe the animal with shampoo quite often - once every one or two months. At the same time, you need to pay attention to the choice of cosmetics, since luxurious wool will look deplorable if you wash the dog with anything. Ordinary soap or human shampoos will not work, as they dry the animal's skin and wash off the protective fatty layer from the hairs.
Well-groomed coat is the main decoration of the American Cocker Spaniel
To wash the Cocker, you need to use a professional shampoo for long-haired dogs. You can focus on the color of the animal, for example, for black dogs it is better to choose products designed for dark wool. They contain a small amount of coloring pigment, which will allow the hairs to maintain a clean, deep color, without going brown or gray.
After shampooing, a mask or conditioner is applied to the Cocker Spaniel's coat, which will add shine, make it easier to comb, remove static electricity and nourish the hairs, cleaned of dirt. For these purposes, you need to use products containing keratin or silk proteins. You can also use oils - coconut, almond or mink, but then you need to apply them to the coat before washing, and then thoroughly, perhaps twice, lather the dog with shampoo and rinse. Such a scheme will moisturize the coat, but not make it greasy and hanging icicles.
After washing, the dog must be thoroughly dried with a towel, and then proceed to drying with a hair dryer. Do not allow the dog to dry on its own, as wet hair can become matted, in addition, a wet dog can catch a cold. Breeders and owners who prepare dogs for the show use a compressor - a powerful hair dryer designed specifically for long-haired breeds, which allows you to dry even a rich coat of an animal with high quality and very quickly.
The next step after drying is combing. In principle, the more often the owner scratches the dog, the more well-groomed its coat will be, and the risk of hair tangling will decrease. It is necessary to comb the cocker not only after washing, but also after each walk in order to comb out dirt, dry twigs, grass and other debris from the coat. Combing should be thorough, special attention is paid to the "skirt" - long, flowing hair below the body. For combing, you can use a comb with blunt teeth of sufficient length, a slicker, a massage comb.
American Cocker Grooming
Above, we described the actions that every owner can perform at home. But there is one more nuance - American Cockers with their long hair are breeds that need regular haircuts. It is better to entrust this matter to a professional groomer, especially if the dog will attend exhibitions.
Pedigree haircut of the American Cocker is a difficult process that requires a whole arsenal of tools from the hairdresser. So, the dog's head and upper back are cut short, leaving a small tuft on the head. The ears are shaved to the upper two-thirds, the fringe is not cut from below, but only slightly trimmed with scissors. The body is not sheared with a machine, in these places the hair is plucked with a special comb or a groomer's knife. The hair on the limbs remains long, while the bottom of the paws is trimmed with a hemisphere, as if the dog walks in long fluffy pants.
American Cocker Spaniel Grooming Scheme
Important point! So that a haircut and a trip to the groomer do not become stressful for the animal, you need to do hygiene and care procedures regularly. The first haircut for puppies can be carried out by a breeder, who introduces them to water procedures, hygiene, combing and trimming wool. In the future, these responsibilities will fall on the owner. Remember that once every six months it will not work to make the dog endure painful combing, you need to do this three or four times a week. Then the animal will patiently endure all manipulations, provided that the owner is gentle and careful.
Other care procedures
Since American Cocker Spaniels are distinguished by their long, drooping ears, they need to be groomed just as well as their coat. The fact is that dogs with such a structure of the auricle are prone to the appearance of ear mites, otitis media and other troubles that threaten discomfort for the animal and even hearing loss.
The first thing the owner of the American Cocker should be aware of is that the ears should be inspected daily for accumulated dirt, inflammation or other secretions. If the auricle is dirty, you need to wipe the inner surface with a cotton pad dipped in a special lotion (sold in pet stores or veterinary pharmacies). If the dog shakes its head, redness is noticeable inside the ear, or the owner notices other symptoms, the animal should be taken to the veterinarian. He will conduct the necessary examination and prescribe treatment or actions to prevent diseases.
Another feature of spaniels associated with long ears is that the coat on them gets dirty when the dog lowers its head on the street. To avoid constant washing, you can use a special cap that is easy to sew on your own. For this, a breathable or mesh fabric is taken, measured according to the volume of the dog's head and sewn with a ring. Soft elastic bands are inserted into the edges of the resulting headdress.
American Cocker Spaniels with caps that protect their ears
Spaniel claws also require care: like a dog of any other breed, you need to cut them so that the dog can move comfortably. If the animal often walks on the pavement, the claws can grind themselves; in winter, or if the pet walks on the grass and earth, a couple of times a month you need to do a manicure for him, armed with a special nail cutter.
You also need to take care of your dog's teeth. After the milk teeth have been replaced by permanent ones (this happens at about six to seven months), you need to brush them three to four times a week with a special toothpaste for dogs. It is necessary to accustom the animal to this procedure from puppyhood, so that later the dog does not break out and does not resist. Periodically, the spaniel should be given chew toys with which the dog can brush its own teeth. Such toys can be purchased at pet stores. Due to the fibrous structure, the dog's teeth completely sink into them, in the process plaque is cleaned off and the appearance of tartar is prevented.
What and how to feed the American Cocker?
Like all Cocker Spaniels, the American Cocker Spaniel is famous for its irrepressible food. Dogs of this breed are often obese if the owners are not able to make a competent diet for the animal and refuse when the dog asks for something tasty. Also, do not forget about the propensity of spaniels to food allergies. In order to avoid the above health problems, you need to feed the animal according to the norm - balanced and rather monotonous.
The fact is that the stomach of dogs and their body as a whole does not need a large food variety. On the contrary, the more familiar the food, the better for the animal. Feeding according to a schedule, in a certain amount and with familiar foods is the key to good digestion in a Cocker Spaniel, and therefore overall health.
The owner of the American Cocker Spaniel must decide what type of feeding is most preferable for him: ready-made dry food or natural food. The first option will appeal to those owners who do not want to spend a lot of time compiling a diet for a pet, since modern dry food (super premium or holistic class) contains everything you need.
Premium dry dog food
For an American Cocker Spaniel, you need to choose food for medium-sized dog breeds, some brands, for example, Royal Canin, immediately offer a line for spaniels. This food contains vitamins and minerals necessary for the health of the dog's skin and coat, helps maintain an ideal weight (prevention of obesity), and also provides everything the heart muscle needs. When buying dry food for an American Spaniel, look for the label "Hypoallergenic" or choose flavors based on lamb, turkey or salmon, excluding chicken as a strong allergen for animals.
Having chosen one food and making sure that it suits the pet (the animal is cheerful, active, the coat is shiny, the stool is normal), you do not need to change it. The change of food can only be due to the growing up of the animal, since all foods have lines for puppies, growing and adult pets, as well as the elderly.
If the owner decides that natural feeding is preferable, he should study the needs of the dog in advance. Cocker Spaniel, like any pet, you can not feed from the common table. The natural diet is based on fresh raw meat scalded with boiling water, vegetables and fruits, sea fish, cottage cheese and other lactic acid products, eggs, offal.
Many American Spaniel owners follow a feeding system called "Barf". This system includes products that are biologically characteristic of the dog as a wild animal. "Barf" imitates natural feeding, that is, the dog receives raw meat and offal, as well as related ingredients: berries, herbs, vegetable oils(burdock, olive).
In any case, the decision on the organization of feeding is made by the owner of the animal. It is only important to remember that the dog is completely dependent on the person, and the task of the owner is to provide the animal with fresh, high-quality and balanced feed containing all the substances necessary for the life of the pet.
Appointment of the breed and training
American Cocker Spaniels have firmly taken the place of pets and companions, but they have not lost their hunting instincts. We said above that cockers are a gun breed, the purpose of which is to bring shot game, in particular, a bird. The animal is easily trained to both bring prey and raise birds from shelters, but the long coat will prevent the Cocker Spaniel from making its way through grass, bushes or swamps. Therefore, show dogs do not participate in hunting; if the pet is purchased in order to walk under a gun, the owner must provide a comfortable length of wool for him.
American Cocker Spaniel on the hunt
To train an animal to be useful in hunting, it is worth taking special training courses with it. The training of cockers includes several stages, which are worked out until they are fully mastered: standing, stretching, scaring and bringing game. Also, the dog will be taught to work with a clicker or a whistle, they will be introduced to different types game, they will teach that the bird should be handed over to the owner, and not eat it alone. But, before you go for coaching, you need to go through the main training course with a puppy.
As the name implies, this course includes the basic skills for each dog: the ability to walk next to the owner’s foot, to come to the call, teaching the commands “Sit!”, “Lie down!”, “Stand!” and others. Basic training is very important for American Spaniels, because by nature they are restless, and hunting instincts wake up at the most inopportune moment. A responsible owner who wants to reach an understanding with the dog and learn how to manage it competently will definitely take group or individual lessons with a cynologist.
Any active activities will be a joy to the Cocker Spaniel
If the owner of the American Cocker Spaniel is not going to take the animal for hunting, you can choose other sports where the dog can throw out energy and enjoy movement and work in tandem with the owner.
So, American cockers show themselves well in. This is a sport for the interaction of the dog and the owner. The task of the pet is to accurately and in the shortest period of time pass the track with obstacles, such as "snake", barriers of various configurations, tunnels, logs (booms), swings and the like. At the same time, the dog is in “free flight”, it should not have a collar, and even more so, a leash.
Cockers perform well in frisbees - competitions for catching a flying saucer. Another sport in which a Cocker Spaniel can warm up and even get tired is coursing. Coursing is fun for dogs with hunting skills. In a certain area, a mechanism is installed that moves an artificial hare along a selected trajectory. In this case, the "prey" can suddenly change direction, freeze or accelerate. Coursing is good because the animal not only realizes its hunting potential, but also learns to make a decision, not to get lost in unexpected situations, and in general receives physical activity.
Also, with representatives of the breed, you can do tracking work - the instinct of the hunter greatly helps Cockers in this. Excellent sense of smell allows American Cocker Spaniels to be very useful. Dogs of this breed work to find missing people, help police officers look for drugs. Particularly convenient for the work of operatives is that spaniels are small in size and calm, friendly in nature. This allows dogs to work in crowded places: airports, railway stations, without frightening others. They also check with spaniels public transport, crossing borders - trains and buses, and its compact size allows the animal to easily work in narrow aisles and cramped spaces.
American Cocker Spaniels are managed by rescue workers and people-oriented volunteers. The spaniel works well both wooded or field areas, and blockages (stone and snow). Small size and weight also play an important role in the search abilities of spaniels. Firstly, the animal can maneuver between trees, overcome various obstacles and pass in many places without the risk of falling through. Secondly, the guide can carry a small dog for some time in order to deliver it to the right place, bypassing the dangerous area.
Video - About American Cockers
Summarizing
American Cocker Spaniels are sensitive, friendly and very human-oriented dogs. Such a pet will be an ideal companion for an active person who spends a lot of time on the street, often going out into nature. American Cocker Spaniels are suitable for both a single owner and a big family, where each person will be happy with the animal and will not refuse to spend time playing or petting.
By virtue of accommodating and calm nature, the spaniel is suitable for both an experienced dog owner and a beginner who first thought about acquiring a tailed pet. The main thing is to find a responsible breeder who will not only pass on new house a beautiful and healthy puppy, but at any time will be able to provide competent advice, tell a person how to resolve a particular issue.
If you want to get an American Spaniel, be prepared to give him a lot of attention and love, and then the dog will respond to you with great affection.
The American Cocker Spaniel is a small active and good-natured dog. Modern cockers are the result of long-term selection. They were originally used as hunting dogs. Therefore, representatives of this breed, despite their small size, are hardy, tireless, have a strong and muscular body. Later, the animals became popular pets. The friendly and mischievous nature of the dogs served this.
Spanish roots of the breed
The very name of the breed - American Cocker Spaniel - reflects the history of the origin of dogs. Cockers are direct descendants of spaniels, whose ancestors came to Spain from Asia Minor. In the "land of rabbits", spaniel-like dogs were highly valued for their hunting abilities. They were easily trained on large rodents and birds.
Later, the ancestors of Cockers were brought to England (the first description of a breed similar to spaniels in the UK dates back to the 10th century). Here they were taken up by local breeders. While trying to maintain their hunting qualities, the breeders at the same time tried to develop a friendly breed that could become a companion. In addition, the needs of each hunter owner differed both from the features of the landscape and the type of hunting, and from personal preferences. Cinematographers claim that The British bred about 20 varieties of spaniels. The smallest - Sussexes and Field Spaniels - are the direct ancestors of modern Cocker Spaniels.
The English Cocker Spaniel was first mentioned in 1697. They differed from ordinary spaniels in their denser coat, small size and weight.
However, cockers were taken seriously only in the 19th century. In 1859, a dog of this breed - Obo - was presented at an exhibition in Birmingham. His descendants, Obo-1 and Chloe-2, were brought to America at the end of the century.
Introduction of the American Cocker Spaniel
On the mainland, local breeders began to gradually move away from English standards. At first, English and American representatives of the breed were crossed with each other, but soon this type of selection was abandoned. In 1915, American Cocker Spaniels were already significantly different from their ancestors, after another 20 years interbreeding was strictly prohibited, and 30 years later the American Cocker Spaniel was recognized as a separate breed.
"Americans" and "English", despite their common origin, are strikingly different from each other:
- Wool in American Cockers with a developed undercoat, on the paws and sides of their fur coat is elongated and forms an arch. Dogs seem to show off in a woolen coat. In representatives of the English breed, the coat is shortened, there are no long fringes.
- Frame in the "Americans" the back is straight along the entire length, in the "English" the back is even from the withers to the croup, and closer to the tail it goes down. In addition, the latter are slightly higher at the withers - an average of 5 cm.
- Muzzle American Cockers are slightly smaller than the British, with large eyes and “chiseled” features: dense, voluminous lips, a forehead steeply turning into a muzzle, and clear brow ridges.
- Hunting qualities the "Americans" are almost not expressed. According to the FCI standard, they do not participate in the working tests required for the "English".
- Character both breeds are soft, good-natured. However, American Cockers are more excitable, more difficult to endure loneliness, their psyche is less resistant to stress.
Exterior
The main distinguishing feature of the American Cocker Spaniel is a long thick coat with a stiff pile. And it is more matte than silky. The "fur coat" of dogs of this breed lengthens on the paws, stomach, ears and chest. The characteristic of the breed includes the following description:
- The weight: 7 - 14 kg;
- Growth: 35 - 39.6 cm from the floor;
- Color varied: red, dark, brown, fawn, two- or three-color, with tan;
- Ears lobe-shaped, long, set at the level of the lower margin of the eye;
- Tail in relation to the total length of the body, short, elongated. Both cupping to the middle of the length and its absence are allowed;
- Paws with equally developed musculature, shoulder blades at right angles to sloping shoulders and straight forearms, hard pads with strong claws and hair between the fingers;
- Nose black in dogs with a dark color. Brown earlobes are allowed in light-coated dogs. Mandatory presence of "snub";
- Eyes large, the color of the iris is dark brown.
The nature of the breed
American Cocker Spaniels are extremely friendly and active. They get along well with children and other pets. This breed is constantly on the move, but knows how to take into account the circumstances. So, indoors, the cocker becomes more calm, and on a walk he gives free rein to his passion.
Cockers can't stand being alone. With a lack of attention and active games, representatives of the breed develop mental disorders: constant barking, howling, whining, damaging things. Therefore, it is better to acquire this breed for those families where someone is constantly at home.
American Cocker Spaniels are sensitive and amiable dogs. With all their friendliness, they are not intrusive, subtly capture the mood of the owner. A dog of this breed will not pester the owner with games when he is not in a good mood.
American Cocker Spaniel dogs are friendly with all family members, but choose only one owner. Often it becomes a child, whom the cocker frantically protects in case of danger.
The breed absolutely excludes any malice and aggression. Dogs with these traits are not allowed for breeding.
Features of training
The training of the Cocker Spaniel excludes any violence. It must contain game elements.
Training starts at an early age. From 8 weeks, the puppy must be socialized. The pet should communicate as much as possible with other dogs and people. If you miss this moment, after two months of age, he will begin to be afraid of strangers.
The first command that a little cocker should learn is his nickname. The training of an American Cocker Spaniel puppy should be started at home, practicing and reinforcing each technique on the street while walking.
When the Cocker Spaniel reaches 4 months, attention should be paid to dominant traits. This age in all dogs can be compared with adolescence in humans. Puppies are trying to check how firmly the members of his "pack" hold their position. Any attempt to dominate - growl, grab hands or feet with teeth, jump on people, sleep on a bed, walk ahead of the owner on a leash or go first into the room - should be stopped right there.
General training of the American Cocker Spaniel is not difficult. These dogs are aimed at a person, trying to please the owner as much as possible. The only thing worth remembering is that pets have a sensitive psyche, and any angry or loud exclamation will nullify all the results.
Bathe your Cocker Spaniel every 10 days. You will also have to regularly cut the hair between the fingers and from the ear canal - here it interferes with the ventilation of the ear, which can lead to otitis media. Regular grooming is recommended for the American Cocker Spaniel.
American Cocker Spaniels need to trim their nails and brush their teeth periodically. Special toys will come to the rescue: bones and cords. For the winter, you will need clothes for the American Cocker Spaniel.
A separate problem is Cocker's ears. They hang low on the edges of the muzzle, and debris can easily get there. To avoid inflammation, the ear passages should be cleaned regularly, and during feeding, the pet's ears are pierced from above or a bowl with a high and narrow throat is selected.
Cockers are real gluttons. Portion sizes should be strictly limited, as they will not rest until they have eaten all the food they see.
For a Cocker Spaniel, keeping in a small aviary is ideal. In the apartment, they also will not cause much trouble if they are walked for at least 2 hours daily. The dog should be entertained not only with outdoor games - the curious mind of pets also needs to be developed.
Hereditary and acquired diseases of cockers
The American Cocker Spaniel is a healthy dog. With proper care, they live an average of 15 years. But this breed is predisposed to a number of congenital and acquired diseases:
- seborrhea;
- chronic hepatitis;
- melanoma;
- otitis;
- glaucoma;
- epilepsy;
- urolithiasis;
- progressive retinal degeneration;
- ulcer and dystrophy of the cornea;
- cataract;
- hypothyroidism;
- Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, in which the skin becomes less elastic and durable;
- melanoma - skin cancer.
American Cocker Spaniels are ideal for large families with children. They are friendly, curious and energetic. These dogs get along well with other pets, and their indefatigable enthusiasm and cheerfulness will not let you get bored.
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