American Cocker Spaniel
Also known as Cocker Américain · Amerikanischer Cocker Spaniel · Cocker Spaniel Americano
United States of America, Flushing Dogs
- Size
- Small
- Height
- 34–39 cm
- Weight
- 7–14 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Cheerful
- Affectionate
- Gentle
- Eager to please
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the American Cocker Spaniel
The American Cocker Spaniel is a small sporting spaniel developed in the United States from English cocker spaniel stock, used to flush game birds. It is the smallest of the sporting spaniels, with a rounded head, long, low-set feathered ears and a silky coat that is longer than that of most spaniels, with feathering on the legs and underparts.
Temperament
Cheerful, affectionate and eager to please, usually good with children and other pets. Can be sensitive and may become clingy or anxious if left alone for long. Responds best to gentle, reward-based training.
Exercise
Needs daily walks and play, around an hour of activity in total. It enjoys scent games, retrieving and short training sessions.
Grooming
Long silky coat needs brushing several times a week, and professional trimming every couple of months. Pay attention to the ears and feathering.
Care & wellbeing
Long, drop ears need regular checks and cleaning. Eyes and skin may need attention.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 10.5 kg adult- Water
- 420 ml–630 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 650 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 60–90 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing most days
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a American Cocker Spaniel
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A smaller, shorter-muzzled development of the English cocker spaniel, refined in the United States into a distinct breed with a profuse coat and domed head. Originally a gundog for flushing birds, it is now mainly a companion. Merry and affectionate, it needs regular grooming and ear care.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Ear infections
- Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
- Cataracts
- Glaucoma
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Eye tests
- DNA test for PRA
- Hip scores
Not every American Cocker Spaniel is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Lower than average- Smaller food bills and medicine doses
- Regular professional grooming adds up
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a American Cocker Spaniel right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
- Smaller homes, as long as daily exercise needs are met
Think twice if
- You don't have time for frequent brushing or the cost of professional grooming
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a American Cocker Spaniel get?
Adult American Cocker Spaniels typically stand about 34–39 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 7–14 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do American Cocker Spaniels live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a American Cocker Spaniel need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a American Cocker Spaniel need?
Brushing most days. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are American Cocker Spaniels easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do American Cocker Spaniels shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are American Cocker Spaniels good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a American Cocker Spaniel live in a flat?
Usually, yes — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do American Cocker Spaniels have?
The breed can be prone to ear infections, progressive retinal atrophy (pra), cataracts. Not every American Cocker Spaniel is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- United States of America
- Type
- Flushing Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1965