Group 3: Gun dogs
Height:
Male: 36 – 38 cm
Female: 33 – 35 cm
Weight:
Male: 11 – 13 kg
Female: 9 – 11 kg
Energy Level: Moderate to high
Original Function: Retriever
Lifespan: 10 – 12 yrs
Recommended for: Families, most people
Derived from the English Cocker Spaniel, the American Lines become so different by the 1930s that it was recognized in the US as a separate Breed. British recognition followed about 35yrs later.
The American Cocker is the smallest member of the gundog group, when trained to gun they are expected to cover all the ground within shooting distance, and once the game has been flushed out, the dog will sit and wait for his master to fire the gun. On a further command, the dog then will retrieve the game from either land or water. They easily adapt to both country and city apartment life, they love people, are very loyal and easy to train, they do very well in obedience.
Appearance: Sturdy, compact body and a cleanly chiselled and refined head, with the overall dog in complete balance and of ideal size. He stands well up at the shoulder on straight forelegs with a topline sloping slightly towards strong, moderately bent, muscular quarters. He is a dog capable of considerable speed, combined with great endurance.
Temperament: Lively, happy, friendly. Equable in temperament with no suggestion of timidity
Coat: On the head, short and fine; on the body, medium length, with enough undercoating to give protection. The ears, chest, abdomen and legs are well feathered, but not so excessively as to hide the true lines and movement or affect his appearance and function as a moderately coated, sporting dog.
The texture is most important. The coat is silky, flat or slightly wavy and of a texture which permits easy care. Excessive coat or curly or cottony textured coat shall be severely penalised. Use of electric clippers on the back is not desirable. Trimming to enhance the dog’s true lines should be done to appear as natural as possible.
Colour: Parti-colour, Black or Any Solid Colour Other than Black. i.e. (Including Roans) – with or without Tan markings
Grooming: You can leave the coat long, which will need daily brushing, but some prefer to have them clipped so it can be more manageable. Either way regular trimming will be needed and bath frequently.
Exercise: These dogs have plenty of stamina and need regular walking, and free running.
Health: This Breed can be prone to ear infections, skin problems, inherited eye diseases, and spinal problems.