The dog’s proficiency in locating and flushing game birds, including woodcock, made it a popular sporting animal as well as a faithful companion.

In 1879, the first modern cocker spaniel, a black male named Obo, sired a litter and began the American breed of the cocker spaniel. Today, significant physical characteristics separate the American and English cocker spaniels, though both breeds are similarly affectionate, loyal, and energetic.

Cocker spaniels have a compact, muscular body that is well balanced and agile. A cocker spaniel’s sense of smell is forty times more acute than a human’s, a feat achieved with a prominent nose. A cocker’s ears are one of its most prominent features. The dark brown eyes are prominent and expressive, showing intelligence and alertness.

Colors range from solid black, which is the most dominant coloration, to solid coats of all shades including gold, red, tan, and fawn. Dappled and spotted coats are not uncommon, though they are less favored for show dogs. The heavy coat requires frequent grooming, and persons with sensitive allergies should not consider adopting a cocker spaniel.

The cocker spaniel measures between fourteen and fifteen inches tall at the shoulders and weighs between twenty-four and twenty-eight pounds. Abundant exercise and a balanced diet is essential to any cocker’s health. Most love to swim, so they should be closely monitored in parks or other areas where their enthusiasm outstrips caution.

The smallest breed in the Sporting Group, the cocker spaniel has one of the largest hearts. The dog’s affectionate and energetic disposition makes it a fine pet for most families. Cockers are adventurous and playful, and relate well to younger children.