Breed History

At first glance, you’d probably mistake this breed for a lap dog. They’re small, fluffy, playful, and sweet. But this breed has a rich history in sports and hunting. In fact, the American Kennel Club classifies Cocker Spaniel breeds as sporting dogs. 

The breed originated from a stock of Spanish dogs. That’s where the term “spaniel” comes from. The goal was to create a hunting dog breed that excelled at retrieving woodcock. Hence the name: Cocker Spaniel. 

Hunting rifles weren’t as easy to use and accurate as they are today. Game was mostly hunted with bows, arrows, and nets. These methods might only wound the target instead of quickly killing it. So it was crucial to have an agile hunting companion to retrieve wounded prey. 

English vs. American Breeds

Did you know there are two types of Cocker Spaniel breeds? If you live in the US, the Cocker Spaniel you’re familiar with is most likely the American version. English Cocker Spaniels have a the same charm, but a slightly different look. 

In the 1900s, Americans started breeding Cocker Spaniels as companions rather than hunting. The result was a smaller, fluffier breed. The AKC recognizes the American version of the breed and simply calls it “Cocker Spaniel”. 

Do Cocker Spaniels shed?

Do Cocker Spaniels shed? Yes, both the English and American breeds shed, but not very much. Both have long double coats that need regular brushing. With frequent brushing and the occasional grooming, your pup’s shedding will be under control. 

English Cocker Spaniel

Weight: 26-34 pounds

Height: 15-17 inches

Lifespan: 12-14 years 

Physical Traits

The English Cocker Spaniel has an elegant coat that drapes down the legs and stomach. Long floppy ears frame the face and highlight the big dark eyes. 

Slightly larger than its American counterpart, an English Cocker Spaniel stands between 15 and 17 inches tall. They also tend to weigh 5 pounds more on average. 

 

Personality 

With a naturally adaptable personality, an English Cocker Spaniel can mesh well with any pet parent. They can thrive in most environments, including suburbs, cities, or farms. As long as their food and exercise needs are being met, these dogs are easy to get along with. 

These dogs are easy to train and eager to please. Whether it’s agility or basic obedience, they can pick up new skills relatively quickly. That’s why you’ll often see Cocker Spaniels competing in sports and dog shows.

Exercise

These pups require a bit more exercise than American Cocker Spaniels. Daily walks, playing fetch, and training exercises are the best ways to tire out an English Cocker Spaniel. If you’re adventurous, these dogs also enjoy a hike or long trail walk. 

As a member of the sporting dog group, these pups have a natural instinct for hunting and retrieving. A simple game of fetch or tug every day can provide these pups with enough mental and physical stimulation. 

Health & Grooming

The English Cocker Spaniel is a relatively healthy breed. Aside from genetic health conditions, the main breed risks are hip dysplasia, retinal atrophy, and neuropathy. But having an English Cocker Spaniel doesn’t guarantee they’ll develop these issues. 

Those adorable Spaniel ears are more prone to infection, though. Parents of these pups should brush and clean the insides of their dog’s ears regularly. Frequent tooth brushing with dog-safe toothpaste is a great way to avoid dental problems, as well. 

Along with brushing the ears, we recommend combing through their entire coat at least once a week. Their coat will be filled with tangles and knots otherwise. We also recommend monthly professional grooming to trim excess hair. 

American Cocker Spaniel

Weight: 20-30 pounds

Height: 13.5-15.5 inches

Lifespan: 10-14 years 

Physical Traits

The first thing you might notice is the domed head and shorter nose. American Cocker Spaniels were bred for companionship, so they don’t need a long snout for hunting. They also have a thicker coat that can be wavy or curly in texture. 

In adulthood, an American Cocker Spaniel weighs between 20 and 30 pounds. They tend to be a little shorter than the English variant, maxing out around 13.5 to 15.5 inches tall. 

Personality

No proper English manners with these dogs. The American Cocker Spaniel tends to be even more affectionate and social. It doesn’t take long for a Cocker Spaniel puppy to warm up to strangers. Just throw a tennis ball their way and you’ll have a new best friend. 

American Cocker Spaniels are just as adaptable and trainable as the English version. All they want is to please their pet parents, which makes for quick training. 

These dogs do tend to be more sensitive to their human’s tone. Language barrier aside, these pups can read your emotions like a book. Simply praising your pup for good behavior can be an effective training method. 

Exercise

Compared to English Cocker Spaniels, this breed doesn’t need quite as much exercise. Dedicated playtime and short walks are enough to meet daily exercise requirements. We know how much a Cocker Spaniel can get from a simple game of fetch!

American Cocker Spaniels are perfect family dogs. They get along well with young children and even other pets. Your kids can also help tire out your pup by playing with them. 

Health & Grooming

Skin and coat health is the biggest risk to an American Cocker Spaniel. Infections in the ear canal can develop without regular cleaning and brushing. Matted fur can lead to skin issues, so grooming should be prioritized. 

That thicker coat requires a little more attention than an English Cocker Spaniel. Dogs with wavy or curly coats should be brushed frequently with a fine metal comb to avoid tangling. Remember to be gentle when brushing their ears as the skin in that area can be sensitive. 

Take your Cocker Spaniel puppy to the groomer about once a month. It can be tedious to take care of their coat, so the help of a professional is really important. 

American Cocker Spaniels are also more prone to hip dysplasia. Keep an eye on your pup for any signs of hip or joint pain. Talk to your vet for further instructions on treatment.