Cocker Spaniel (American)

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History/Origin
The English originally bred the Cocker Spaniel American for hunting woodcocks. The first cocker was believed to have reached America along with the Pilgrim Fathers aboard the Mayflower in the advent of the year 1620 . The following year, more dogs were brought to aid in exploration of the New World.

The Cocker Spaniel American breed evolved from the original variety in the 1800's to hunt woodcocks and quails. The American breed was smaller compared to the English breed, but in 1930s it became very distinct from its ancestors that the dog was given an entirely distinct breed status in 1945. The Cocker Spaniel American is now a family dog and a show dog, yet it retains some of its hunting instincts and can still be a working dog. Through the years, it remains among America's well-known dog breed.

Description
The American Cocker Spaniel comes in three main color varieties - particolor, black, and any solid color aside from black. Those solid colors frequently coating the dog are buff, chocolate, red, and sable. Other common colors are tricolor (black, tan, white), black and tan, and white and tan. Its coat can be flat, silky or partially wavy.

Its head is vaulted and round with a profusion of feathered coat. It has large, round expressive eyes and a short, low muzzle. Its long dangling ears swathed in silky hair are its prominent breed features - most spaniels developed for hunting have longer muzzles and shorter coats than the pet variety, as longer coats would only have it trapped in the bushes. Its neck is muscular and long and its body is tight and short. Its legs are fairly short but strongly- boned with round, solid feet.

Temperament
The American Cocker Spaniel can live as a family dog or as a show dog. It is confident and dedicated, yet remains loyal to its master. Its being cheerful, appealing, lively, and faithful allows it to socialize well with some animals. Also, it can adjust to the country life or city life with equal aplomb. As a puppy, it should be adjusted well to people to avoid its shyness. Owing to its sweet temperament, the Cocker Spaniel American remains among the most popular dog breeds today.