Cockers 101

Sporting group

The American Cocker Spaniel was for decades the top purebred dog in the nation, an outstanding family dog of reasonable size. Intelligent, friendly and sweet-natured, the Cocker is still popular – and rightfully so.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about Cockers

Merry spaniel was most popular dog for decades.

While the English and American Cockers were once the same breed, the American Cocker today has a squarer head and more coat than does the English. For ease of maintenance, the silky coats of most Cockers is typically kept clipped short. Cockers are lively and playful, easy to train and eager to please -- although occasionally stubborn. Early socialization and manners raining will help with the latter. The Cocker adores children, is friendly to all, and compatible with other family pets.

Energy level

100% energy level

Energy level: 100% (Very high)

Bark level

  • Very vocal
  • As needed

Bark level: Talkative. This breed vocalizes regularly but not excessively

Size

13.5 to 15.5 inches tall
Small breed size

Size: 13.5 to 15.5 inches tall. This is a Small sized Dog.

Lifespan

10 to 14 years

Lifespan: 10 to 14 years average

Weight

20 to 30 lbs

Weight: 20 to 30 lbs typical range

Breed Group
Sporting group
Energy level
Very high (100%)
Bark level
Talkative
Height
13.5 to 15.5 inches
Lifespan
10 to 14 years
Weight
20 to 30 lbs

The American Cocker Spaniel stands 13.5 to 15.5 inches tall and weighs 20 to 30 lbs. American Cocker Spaniels have a lifespan of 10 to 14 years. They are known for a very high (100%) energy level and a talkative bark.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big do American Cocker Spaniels get?
American Cocker Spaniels stand 13.5 to 15.5 inches tall and typically weigh between 20 and 30 pounds.
How long do American Cocker Spaniels live?
The average lifespan of a American Cocker Spaniel is 10 to 14 years.
Are American Cocker Spaniels good for first-time dog owners?
American Cocker Spaniels are intelligent but have high energy. They do best with experienced owners who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Do American Cocker Spaniels bark a lot?
American Cocker Spaniels are considered talkative — they bark more than average but are not excessively vocal.

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My pet’s health plannerSM

Mature adult Cocker

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Cocker conditions

Ear infection

Intervertebral disc disease

Seizures

Senior Cocker

8+ years

Risk level for common Cocker conditions

Cushings disease

Pancreatitis

Valvular heart disease

Cocker puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Cocker conditions

Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)

Ear infection

Gastritis

Young adult Cocker

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Cocker conditions

Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)

Ear infection

Skin allergies

Mature adult Cocker

5 years to 7 years

Risk level for common Cocker conditions

Ear infection

Intervertebral disc disease

Seizures

Senior Cocker

8+ years

Risk level for common Cocker conditions

Cushings disease

Pancreatitis

Valvular heart disease

Cocker puppy

0 to 6 months

Risk level for common Cocker conditions

Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)

Ear infection

Gastritis

Young adult Cocker

7 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Cocker conditions

Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)

Ear infection

Skin allergies

2-American cocker spaniel laying down GettyImages-186124172

Nationwide can help you save on your American Cocker Spaniel's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

3-Fun fact American cocker spaniel GettyImages-1300910337

An American Cocker Spaniel is credited with saving the political career of Richard M. Nixon. Nixon was accused of taking money from donors for his own use, and some pushed Dwight D. Eisenhower to choose another VP candidate. Checkers was a gift to the Nixon family, and he made a point of saying that the dog was one donation he did keep for himself – on behalf of his daughter Tricia.

American Cocker Spaniel coat care and colors

Regular veterinary dental care is essential. Between cleanings, daily tooth-brushing helps, using a pet-safe toothpaste in a dog-approved flavor. Avoid wrestling matches in adult dogs at nail-trim time by acclimating puppies to having their feet handled and nails attended to. Some dogs better tolerate nail grinding rather than trimming.

Cocker exercise & training

Exercise level

Exercise level

The compact size of the American Cocker Spaniel reduces the need for the kind of activity larger hunting dogs require. A brisk daily walk, a game of fetch – all good!

Trainability

Trainability

American Cocker Spaniels are bright, eager to please, and love to learn. Reward their good manners with praise and tiny treats, and add some tricks.

Cocker fun facts

Top girl names for Cockers

100%

of Cockers are female

0%

of Cockers are male

Top boy names for Cockers

Nationwide loves American Cocker Spaniels of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Cockers

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