American Cocker Breed Guide
Formal breed name: American Cocker Spaniel
Also known as: Cocker Spaniel (American), American Spaniel
Cheerful and adaptable, American Cocker Spaniels win hearts with their silky coats and eager-to-please attitude in any household.
Quick facts about this breed
Size
Small
Weight
9-15 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
Size
Small
Weight
9-15 kg
Lifespan
12-15 years
Energy Level
High
Family Fit
Loves all ages
Shedding
Moderate
About American Cockers
The American Cocker Spaniel evolved from English Cocker Spaniels brought to America in the 1600s, but developed into a distinct breed by the early 20th century. Originally bred for hunting woodcock and other small game birds, American Cockers were refined to be smaller and more compact than their English cousins.
These dogs are known for their silky, flowing coats that come in various colours including solid black, buff, and particolours. Their gentle, merry temperament and eagerness to please made them America's most popular breed for much of the mid-20th century.
American Cockers are excellent family pets that thrive on human companionship and are generally good with children. Their luxurious coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and maintain its condition. While generally healthy, potential concerns include eye problems, ear infections due to their long ears, and certain genetic conditions like progressive retinal atrophy.
Complete Care Guide for American Cockers
Expert advice on keeping your American Cocker healthy, happy, and thriving at every stage of life.
Establishing proper nutrition habits plays a vital role in maintaining your American Cocker's health and signature coat. These charming spaniels require carefully portioned meals appropriate for their small-to-medium build, as they can easily gain excess weight without proper monitoring. A consistent feeding schedule helps regulate their energy levels throughout the day, supporting their naturally alert yet balanced temperament.
Quality nutrition directly impacts the health and appearance of their distinctive long, silky coat. Selecting foods rich in essential fatty acids and proteins helps maintain coat lustre while supporting overall skin health. Many owners find success with divided daily portions rather than free-feeding, which allows better control over intake and helps prevent obesity-related health issues.
When introducing new foods, observe your American Cocker carefully for signs of sensitivities or allergies. This breed occasionally experiences dietary intolerances that can manifest as skin irritation, ear problems, or digestive upset. Working closely with your veterinarian to identify optimal portions and appropriate food choices ensures your companion receives balanced nutrition tailored to their specific needs.
How healthy is your American Cocker?
A two minute quiz for your personalised results and health plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about American Cockers from our community of pet parents
American Cocker Spaniels are known for their outgoing, friendly and affectionate nature. They are excellent with children and get along well with other pets, making them a perfect addition to the family. They are also intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. However, they can be a bit sensitive, so positive reinforcement methods work best.