15-30 lbs
13-16"
Afghanistan
The Colonial Cocker Spaniel was created by crossing two separate but similar Spaniel breeds. Both the American Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel are sweet and gentle dogs that will do great around people of all ages. However, the breed can develop social anxiety and therefore should not be left alone for long periods of time, which is something that you must consider before welcoming one of these sweet pups into your family. Although the two breeds have some similarities in their physical appearances, there are differences as well. Therefore, the appearance of these dogs can differ between individuals.
Colonial Cocker Spaniels were created from two very similar breeds; the English Cocker Spaniel and the American Cocker Spaniel. Spaniels date back to the 14th century, and were originally referred to as Spanyelles. At the beginning, all dogs from this family were part of one large breed, but eventually the difference in sizes made them useful for different hunting purposes. The larger of the dogs were talented in springing game, whereas the smaller ones were used for hunting birds such as woodcock. The breed was given the name of Springer Spaniel, and Cocker or Woodcock Spaniel since that is what they were used for. Although the Kennel Club of England separated the Spaniels into two distinct breeds, dogs of both types could still be found in the same litter. They would then be divided into the proper category according to their size. In the 1900s, these dogs were known to be great working dogs as well as companion pets. The larger breed then became the English Cocker Spaniel, and the name of American Cocker Spaniel was given to the dogs who were smaller. Many American Cocker Spaniels were imported to Canada and the United States, where they were used for flushing and retriever several types of bird. Meanwhile, the English Cocker Spaniel was beginning a career in show competition. Two other lines of Spaniel emerged later on in the century. These new breeds were the Field or Cocker Spaniel and the Marlborough Cocker. 1936 was the founding year of the English Cocker Spaniel Club of America. The American Cocker Spaniel Club of America followed closely behind, coming into existence in 1936. This group had a goal of discouraging the interbreeding of the English and American varieties.
The standard structure of these dogs will vary according to the dominance of the parental genes but will include moderately long muscular necks and rounded back legs. Their eyes should be dark and the ears are usually low set and lobular. Both the English Cocker Spaniel and the American Cocker Spaniel will have similar physical characteristics. The English version is slightly larger than the American, and has shorter fur. The American Cocker Spaniel also has a more abrupt stop compared to the English Cocker Spaniel, as well as shorter muzzles. Their long ears are on round heads, and the coats are feathered. In the English version, the upper lips will hang down over the lower jaw and teeth that should meet in a scissors bite. The American type has squared off lips and upturned noses, which will be brown or black, depending on coat color. The eyes are rounded with oval eye rims, and the feet will be cat-like with arched toes.
This coat of this breed will need to be brushed every day and should be bathed regularly. Some owners of the English Cocker Spaniel choose to clip them in order to reduce the maintenance. The American Cocker Spaniel will need to be thoroughly groomed and trimmed every few months, with regular brushing in between. These dogs have large eyes that will need to be cleaned regularly as well. All dogs, but especially the Spaniel, with their long hanging ears, should have them wiped and cleaned regularly. About once a week should be enough to prevent infections. Remember that dogs with long and hanging ears are more prone to problems, so this is an important step. Dogs should also have their teeth brushed about two or three times per week. Toothbrushing every day is the best way to keep teeth and gums healthy. Cut your pet’s nails as needed. This may be once or twice a month, but it mainly depends on the dog’s activity level, as dogs who are more active can wear them doing naturally.
This hybrid breed is alert and lively. Their friendly and cheerful nature makes them great family pets. Since they are gentle and playful, these dogs would do well in a home that has children as well as other pets. This intelligent breed will be easy to train, and their loving personality makes them sweet and affectionate. To teach Spaniels, you will need to be patient and gentle. Some of these dogs have a tough time getting the hang of housebreaking. This breed can develop separation anxiety, and therefore are happiest around families that can give them affection and do not leave the home empty for long periods of time. They tend to bark at anything and everything, so teaching them a quiet command may be a good idea. As with all breeds, teach the Colonial Cocker Spaniel basic obedience and properly socialize them as puppies. This will ensure that your dog is calm being out in public as well as respectful of your authority.
Although the Colonial Cocker Spaniel is not very big, they will do better living in homes that have an accessible yard for them to run around in. Their outdoor playspace should be fenced in, as this active and curious dog may run off after birds or other small creatures. Make sure that they do get enough exercise, as the Colonial Cocker Spaniel can develop anxiety if not active enough. They will enjoy following you on hikes, runs or other activities.
Written by Kathleen Egger
Published: 10/16/2017, edited: 02/24/2021
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