American Cocker Spaniel Dog Breed Temperament, Health Issues, Grooming, and Living Conditions

Temperament: The American Cocker Spaniel dog is keen to work and can be playful and devoted that need socializing, well to avoid extreme shyness. This breed needs firm, loving leadership, with lots of long walks and exercises daily, to be happy. This is one of the easiest breeds to train. It is wise to remember the leadership needs to be the human, or the dog may suffer from small dogs syndrome and here, we would see a completely different dog. The owner has to be the alpha, showing good pack leadership. The daily mental and physical exercise will stop most behaviour problems such as guarding aggressively an object or obsessively barking. With a good owner, who understands the canine behaviour, the dog will be happy and content.

Health issues: Unfortunately, this breed has many health issues from problems with the eyes, and the major concerns can be hip dysplasia, PRA, liver disease, CHF, IMHA, and a host of many more health problems. Carefully check with a veterinarian and good reputable breeders for a full list of health issues, before considering this breed.

Grooming: Daily eye care is important with this breed as they tend to tear. The coat can be left long, which will require daily brushing, gentle brushing is best. This coat needs bathing and frequently needs clipping, every other month, if desired. This breed needs regular trimming and is an average shedder.

Living conditions: The American cocker spaniel will be fine in an apartment providing, they have had their exercise. A small garden is all that is required.