Varieties of Cocker Spaniels

Cocker Spaniels are a relatively small breed of dog that was originally bred as a sporting dog. They are popular as show dogs and are a loving, friendly breed that does well in a family environment. According to the American Spaniel Club, they are companion dogs by nature. When choosing a Cocker Spaniel, you will find different varieties to consider in both breed type and in coat color.

  1. Black Varieties

    • Cocker Spaniels that are a solid, true black or jet black without any brownish or reddish undertones fall within the black variety. Black Cocker Spaniels that have some tan are also included in this variety. The tan marks must fall within certain points, which are on each of the dogs feet, partially up each leg and under the tail and ears. In addition, they may also have tan points on the eyebrows, on the sides of the muzzle, and on the chest. Black dogs with white only on the chin or chest are also considered a part of the black variety.

    Any Solid Color Other Than Black (ASCOB)

    • Cocker Spaniels that are a solid color, with the exception of black, fall under the any solid color other than black (ASCOB) variety of Cocker Spaniels. These dogs are a uniform color and while not multi-hued, they may have a small patch of white on their chest or chin. The colors of the ASCOB Cocker Spaniels include, but are not limited to, red, buff, cream and brown.

    Parti-Color Varieties

    • Parti-color Cocker Spaniels are a mixture of two or more solid colors with one of the colors being white. If you are planning to show your parti-color Cocker Spaniel, certain standards that must be met. According to AKC, if the primary color is 90 percent or more the dog is disqualified. The Cocker Spaniel Handbook states that the white should make up at least 10 percent of the color of the coat. Roan Cocker Spaniels have flecks of color mixed with white. Roans also fall into the same color category as the parti-color variety.

    English Cocker Spaniels

    • English Cocker Spaniels are medium sized dog that has a long, narrow slightly arched head. They have oval shaped eyes, and a muzzle that is as long as the head. The dog's physique is also tall and thin with a narrow chest.

    American Cocker Spaniels

    • The American Cocker Spaniel is a smaller dog than its English counterpart. It has a more domed shape head and defined eyebrows with rounded eyes. It has a fuller coat, short muzzle and pronounced stop, which is the area between muzzle and skull. The American Cocker Spaniel also comes in the color buff which does not show up in English Cocker Spaniels.