Cocker Spaniel - Breed Information

 

Breed Information:The Cocker Spaniel is a medium-sized dog with a beautiful silky coat. There are many coat color variations of the Cocker Spaniel which are: Black; ASCOB (Any Solid Color Other than Black) which can range from very light blonde to deep red; Parti-Color – any two or more solid colors, one of which must be white; and Tan Points – black or ASCOB with tan points in specific locations. Please check with the Kennel Club for specifics on tan point locations.The Cocker has a round head with a square muzzle which has upper lips completely covering the lower jaw. The nose of the black Cocker Spaniel must always be black, though may be brown on other color variations. The body should be solid and the topline should slope slightly from front to back. Although the tail is normally docked in the

USA, dogs that are to be shown internationally must conform to new standards on tail docking.Size:Dogs – Height: 15 inches/Weight: 15-30 poundsBitches – Height: 14 inches/Weight: 15-30 poundsBreed Specific Health Issues:The biggest health problems associated with Cockers are eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts, although patellar luxation (when the knee slips out of place) is common as well. Problems occasionally seen include Hip Dysplasia, liver disease, and skin allergies.Life Expectancy:The average life expectancy for the Cocker Spaniel is 12 to 15 years.

 

Grooming Requirements:The amount of grooming required depends on the length you choose to leave the dog’s coat. Some owners, and especially those who show their dogs, choose to leave the coat long which requires almost daily brushing and bi-weekly bathing. A long coat also requires trimming and clipping occasionally.A more functional way of keeping the coat is trimmed much shorter, although this requires occasional brushing and updated clipping as well.