Cocker Spaniels have been one of the most popular breeds in America for a long time, and anyone who has ever owned one knows why. Their bubbly personalities and convenient size endear them to owners and spectators alike. There are several varieties of Spaniel to interest a pet owner, and getting to know each of them is a great way to explore this old and generous spirit.
Cocker Spaniels
Other wise known as the American Cocker, these dogs have been shown in this country since the eighteen eighties. They stand about fourteen inches at the shoulder, give or take, and boast a coat that will stop your eye for sure. They are available in a wide range of colors, but beware of breeders advertising “rare” colors not recognized by the American Kennel Club. They are capable hunters and water dogs and a faithful family pet. They do require some grooming, but are not terrible to brush every week. Some dogs have such a thick coat that it must be thinned out, but that is not always the case. They have a small, neat head and a docked tail.
English Cocker Spaniels
Originating in Spain, these are one of the oldest of all Spaniels. They have been separate from Cocker Spaniels in the AKC since nineteen forty six, and are a larger dog than the American Cocker Spaniel. They are about sixteen inches tall at the shoulder, and weigh in at about thirty pounds. The colors are a little different than the American Cocker, and the English allows for ticking in the coat. They also sport a long flowing coat that does require some grooming, and these dogs also love water. Naturally birdy animals, they are also content to loaf around the house all day with their owners, or even just go for a jog every now and again. English Cocker Spaniels enjoy a longer, courser head and a docked tail.
Other Spaniels Recognized by the AKC
Less well known spaniels include the American Water Spaniel, the Clumber Spaniel, the English Springer Spaniel, the Field Spaniel, the Irish Water Spaniel, the Sussex Spaniel, and finally the Welsh Springer Spaniel. They are fantastic dogs, all boasting a variety of traits, each one completely unique to every other Spaniel in the registry. The Clumber, Field, Sussex, and Welsh Springer Spaniels are shorter, stockier animals with a lower center of gravity and a flowing coat of varying lengths. The American Water, English Springer, and Irish water Spaniels are a taller set, and the American and Irish Water Spaniels have a shorter, extremely curly waterproof coat, almost like that of a poodle.
Care of Spaniels
Spaniels of any discipline are going to need time from their owner more than anything else, and Cocker Spaniels are no exception to that rule. Like any Sporting dog, they will benefit from daily exercise and a regular grooming routine as well. Handle the dog early and often while he is young, paying close attention to his ears, as this breed is especially prone to red yeast fungus in those long hairy ears.
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