
History
When Cocker Spaniels were imported to North America from England, breeders began to select for a different type of dog, choosing smaller animals with more leg and a shorter body. By the 1930s, the two breed types had become so different they were split. The original type was called the English Cocker Spaniel, and the new one the American Cocker Spaniel (or just Cocker Spaniel in the US). Because he was both an excellent family dog and useful hunter’s companion, the Cocker Spaniel’s popularity soared. As demand increased, many unscrupulous breeders sprung up and the breed suffered from temperamental and constitutional problems. Dedicated breeders worked to promote and maintain sound breeding practices, preserving a true breed type and temperament. The breed remains popular to this day.
Personality
A well bred American Cocker Spaniel has a sweet easy-going temperament. He is happy, trusting and intelligent, easy to train and good at a range of dog sports like agility, flyballand obedience. He is big enough to enjoy long walks, swims and hikes, yet small enough to be portable when travelling. After enjoying some exercise, he is happy to sit back and relax.