General Appearance
The Cocker Spaniel is the smallest member of the Sporting Group. He has a sturdy, compact body and a cleanly chiseled and refined head, with the overall dog in complete balance and of ideal size. He stands well up at the shoulder on straight forelegs with a topline sloping slightly toward strong, moderately bent, muscular quarters. He is a dog capable of considerable speed, combined with great endurance. Above all, he must be free and merry, sound, well-balanced throughout.
Owning
Grooming is essential and may require the help of a professional. The Cocker Spaniel can live happily in a small apartment and will also take full advantage of any open space where he can run. The Cocker easily adapts to any climate or living space. Cockers love people. They make wonderful companions for the elderly and equally love and enjoy the company of children
Temperament
Equable in temperament with no suggestion of timidity.
Did You Know
The Cocker Spaniel is known as the ''smallest member of the sporting-dog family.'' The Cocker Spaniel has been exhibited in the United States since the early 1880s. Cocker Spaniels are one America's favorite pure-bred dogs. Ch. Pett's Southwest Breeze (Ruby) was the first Cocker Spaniel in history to be awarded the AKC's Master Hunter title.