American Cocker Spaniel Breeders

Early American Cocker Spaniel breeders didn’t distinguish between the English and American varieties of the breed. The English Cocker Spaniel was introduced to the USA in the 1880s and local breeders started to breed them as gun dogs and family companions. Cocker Spaniel of the American type appeared only in 1940s. American and English Cocker Spaniels were recognized as separate breeds in 1946. In the USA, both breeds compete together in Field Trials up to nowadays.

The distinction of working and show type dogs in American Cocker Spaniels is less than in English Cocker Spaniels. More American Cocker Spaniel breeders produce dogs for shows than for field work. Though both types are active, intelligent, and easy to train, American Cocker Spaniels bred for shows cannot be used as gun dogs. Both types make wonderful family companions, but working dogs needs more exercise and mental stimulation.

Most dogs of this breed are good-natured and affectionate. Although, an American Cocker Spaniel produced in a backyard kennel may be difficult to train and prone to behavior or health problems. There are several inherited conditions American Cocker Spaniels are susceptible to: Progressive Retinal Atrophy or Night Blindness, Nephropathy or kidney failure, Hip Dysplasia, and several others. They can be prevented only by screening the breeding stock. Responsible American Cocker Spaniel breeders improve health and personality of their bloodlines, but never breed dogs for a certain coat color or other characteristics.

Health and personality of purebred dogs depend not only on the breeder, but also on the owner. Prior to choosing a puppy, the buyer has to make sure that the breed is well suited for his/her family and living conditions. Adult American Cocker Spaniels are very active and playful. They need daily walks and enjoy playing active games like fetching or Frisbee. Though this breed is reported to be easy to train, a novice owner may have problems with housebreaking and obedience training. Devoted American Cocker Spaniel breeders who care about the future life of their dogs ask perspective buyers many questions concerning their lifestyle and dog ownership experience and may refuse selling a puppy to the wrong family.