Facts on Cocker Spaniels for Kids

"Lady and the Tramp" demonstrates the friendly and loving temperament of the American cocker spaniel, one of the most popular breeds, according to American Kennel Club statistics. Curious children can learn plenty of other facts about this dog, many of which explain its reputation as an ideal family pet.

  1. History

    • The American cocker spaniel was bred from the English cocker spaniel to create a smaller dog ideal for hunting birds. The name cocker comes from the woodcock, one of the birds it was used to hunt. The only original difference between the American and English cocker spaniels was size, but over the years they developed more differences and the American version became a breed of its own in 1945. The American version has a more rounded head and longer fur.

    Appearance

    • The American cocker spaniel is the smallest of the spaniel breeds, with an average height of 15 inches and average weight of about 28 lb. It has long ears that drop down and feathered hair around its ears, feet, legs, chest and tummy. The coat is silky and can be wavy or flat and in a variety of colors. The tail is often docked, which means two-thirds are removed by a veterinarian.

    Personality

    • It is a loyal and obedient dog that responds well to humans and is fairly intelligent and easy to train. It is a gentle and loving breed of dog that is eager to please and is good around children and other animals. Because it is a hunting dog it enjoys fetching and retrieving toys and likes plenty of exercise. Cocker spaniels can be shy if not socialized when young, and they bark and urinate in excitement if not trained properly.

    Care

    • The feathered fur needs plenty of grooming to avoid tangles --- especially the ears if they have dipped into the feeding bowl. They are energetic and need two good walks a day. They are suited to urban or country life and make a great first family pet. They enjoy playing with toys but do not like rough play. Their eyes need cleaning regularly, as eye problems are common. The average life span for a healthy dog is 12 to 15 years.