AMERICAN COCKER SPANIEL
The American cocker spaniel is an intelligent, faithful, and cordial dog breed. They have round eyes with glossy hair.
History
Spaniel family dogs are the ancestors of the American cocker spaniel. Spaniel word means Spanish word show that this breed has emerged from Spain. In 1892, the Cocker spaniel was acknowledged as a breed in England. American kennel club acknowledged the American Cocker spaniel and English cocker spaniel as two different breeds in 1946.
Physical appearance
The American cocker spaniel has a bodyweight of 24 to 28 pounds. The male American cocker spaniel has a height of 15 inches while the female has 14 inches. The American cocker spaniel’s coat color includes black and tan, black and white, brown white, and tan.
Average lifetime
American Cocker spaniel can live up to 10 to 15 years. Dog owners must vaccinate their canines to protect them from fatal diseases.
Temperament
The American cocker spaniel is very amiable, attentive, and loves playing different games. American Cocker spaniels are warm-hearted with their family members and enjoy participating in family activities. This breed can’t bear harsh behavior due to its sensitive nature. American cocker spaniel enjoys living in apartments.
Susceptible to Diseases
American Cocker spaniels are usually healthy, but they are susceptible to certain conditions and diseases of dogs. Below are some conditions that are known to affect American cocker spaniels more than other breeds.
Eye Diseases
American cookers are susceptible to eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. A cataract is an eye disorder in which the eye lens gets cloudy due to the formation of the thin film. Glaucoma occurs due to the rise of intraocular pressure, which can damage the optic nerve and retina. Progressive retinal atrophy is a disorder that can occur due to the damaging of photoreceptor cells of the eyes and cause blindness.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a disorder in which decreased thyroid gland production is present. Hypothyroidism can lead to obesity, hair loss, and epilepsy.
Primary seborrhea
Primary seborrhea is a skin disorder that develops due to the overproduction of skin cells (sebaceous cells). This disorder can lead to oily skin and a foul smell. Dog owners must consult the vet for their canine medications.
Care and grooming
- American Cocker spaniel needs walk or exercise daily to be mentally and physically fit.
- Cleaning the nose, ears, and eyes is crucial to preventing infection and dust deposition.
- Brushing hair two to three times weekly is necessary to maintain the glossy appearance of the coat.