Cocker Spaniel (American)
Male: 11-14 kg, Female: 9-12 kg
Male: 37-39 cm, Female: 34-37 cm at the shoulder
10-14 years
United States
About the Cocker Spaniel (American)
The American Cocker Spaniel is the smallest member of the Sporting Group, possessing a sturdy, compact body and a cleanly chiseled, refined head. Developed in the United States from English ancestors, this breed is distinguished by its rounder skull, shorter muzzle, and more profuse coat compared to its English cousin. They are celebrated for their 'merry' temperament, characterized by a soulful expression and an eager-to-please nature that makes them excellent family companions. While they remain capable of a day's work in the field as a gundog, they are more commonly found today as beloved pets and glamorous show dogs. Their movement is balanced and effortless, covering ground with significant reach and drive. Due to their affectionate personalities, they form deep bonds with their human families and thrive on companionship, requiring consistent interaction and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-adjusted.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
The American Cocker Spaniel is a masterpiece of canine conformation, presenting a silhouette of perfect balance and functional beauty. In the ring, they are known for their 'merry' carriage and a tail that remains in constant motion while moving. Their head is uniquely chiseled with a deep stop and large, dark, liquid eyes that convey a soft, pleading expression.
In Australia
The American Cocker Spaniel was introduced to Australia in 1951, which was the same year the first of the breed was registered in Australia. The breed was imported to establish the American variety as distinct from the English Cocker Spaniel in Australia according to the American Cocker Spaniel Club of Victoria Inc.
Bred For
Flushing and retrieving game birds, specifically the woodcock, from which the 'Cocker' name is derived.
Temperament
Equable, outgoing, merry, and gentle; they are known for their 'happy' disposition and constantly wagging tail.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Exercise Needs
Moderate daily exercise consisting of brisk walks, play sessions, or fetching games for approximately 45-60 minutes.
Grooming Needs
Extensive grooming is required; daily brushing to prevent mats and professional clipping/stripping every 6-8 weeks.
Living Suitability
Highly adaptable to apartment living if sufficiently exercised daily; they thrive in suburban homes with small to medium yards.
Good with Kids
Generally excellent with children, particularly when raised together; supervision is recommended with very young children due to the dog's size.
Good with Other Pets
Typically very sociable with other dogs and can live harmoniously with cats and other household pets if introduced properly.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and eager to please, making them very responsive to positive reinforcement training techniques.
Coat & Colours
Silky, flat or slightly wavy, with a medium length on the body and profuse feathering on the ears, chest, abdomen, and legs.. Black, ASCOB (Any Solid Color Other than Black such as cream, red, brown), and Parti-colors (two or more solid colors, one of which must be white).
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
American Cocker Spaniels are more likely to experience chronic ear infections due to their long, heavy leathers which trap moisture and heat—regular ear cleaning and keeping the underside of the ear trimmed is essential. They are also prone to eye conditions like Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and cataracts, so annual veterinary ophthalmology checks are recommended. While they are beautiful, their grooming demands are significant; without daily brushing, their fine, silky coat will mat quickly, potentially leading to skin irritations or 'hot spots.' Some individuals may be predisposed to dietary sensitivities and skin allergies, often manifesting as itchy paws or inflamed ears—many thrive when switched from grain-heavy commercial kibble to a fresh, single-protein diet like Majestik Kangaroo. Additionally, they have a notable tendency toward obesity if their diet is not strictly monitored, which can exacerbate joint issues like patellar luxation. Like many affectionate breeds, they can be susceptible to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, but they respond wonderfully to a consistent routine and plenty of mental enrichment.
Feeding Guide for Your Cocker Spaniel (American)
Healthy Weight
10-13 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
240-390 grams
For an adult American Cocker Spaniel, we recommend a fresh or raw food diet consisting of high-quality protein and healthy fats. Based on an average weight of 12 kg, they should consume approximately 240 to 360 grams per day. This should be divided into two meals to maintain steady energy levels and support digestion.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
Supplement suitability and dosage depend on the individual dog’s diet and health. Discuss targeted supplementation with your veterinarian or qualified canine nutrition professional.
A balanced raw diet for an American Cocker Spaniel should focus on lean proteins like Majestik Kangaroo or Beef to manage weight. Incorporating fish like salmon provides essential Omega-3s for their luxurious coat. Vegetable matter, such as leafy greens and blueberries, adds vital antioxidants. Avoid high-fat fillers as this breed is prone to weight gain.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Cocker Spaniel (American) Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Cocker Spaniel (American)? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
5-7 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.
