American Cocker Spaniel
Bright and family-focused
Cockers 101
Sporting groupThe 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.
What 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
Energy level: 100% (Very high)
Bark level
- Very vocal
- Talkative
- As needed
Bark level: Talkative. This breed vocalizes regularly but not excessively
Size
Size: 13.5 to 15.5 inches tall. This is a Small sized Dog.
- 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.
My pet’s health plannerSM
This American Cocker Spaniel health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.
Mature adult Cocker
Risk level for common Cocker conditions
Mid-life American Cocker Spaniels should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Seizures is at high risk.
- Seizures
- High Risk
- Ear infection
- Moderate Risk
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Moderate Risk
70% on risk scaleSenior Cocker
Risk level for common Cocker conditions
Senior American Cocker Spaniels face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Cushings disease and Valvular heart disease pose very high risk.
- Cushings disease
- Very High Risk
- Valvular heart disease
- Very High Risk
- Pancreatitis
- Moderate Risk
Cocker puppy
Risk level for common Cocker conditions
American Cocker Spaniel puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid) and Ear infection pose very high risk. Gastritis is at high risk.
- Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)
- Very High Risk
- Ear infection
- Very High Risk
- Gastritis
- High Risk
Young adult Cocker
Risk level for common Cocker conditions
As American Cocker Spaniels grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid) poses very high risk.
- Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)
- Very High Risk
- Ear infection
- Moderate Risk
- Skin allergies
- Above Average Risk
Mature adult Cocker
Risk level for common Cocker conditions
Mid-life American Cocker Spaniels should be monitored for both joint and cardiovascular health. Seizures is at high risk.
- Seizures
- High Risk
- Ear infection
- Moderate Risk
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Moderate Risk
Senior Cocker
Risk level for common Cocker conditions
Senior American Cocker Spaniels face increased risk for serious age-related conditions. Cushings disease and Valvular heart disease pose very high risk.
- Cushings disease
- Very High Risk
- Valvular heart disease
- Very High Risk
- Pancreatitis
- Moderate Risk
Cocker puppy
Risk level for common Cocker conditions
American Cocker Spaniel puppies are most vulnerable during this early stage. Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid) and Ear infection pose very high risk. Gastritis is at high risk.
- Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)
- Very High Risk
- Ear infection
- Very High Risk
- Gastritis
- High Risk
Young adult Cocker
Risk level for common Cocker conditions
As American Cocker Spaniels grow into young adults, orthopedic and injury risks become more relevant. Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid) poses very high risk.
- Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid)
- Very High Risk
- Ear infection
- Moderate Risk
- Skin allergies
- Above Average Risk
Nationwide can help you save on your American Cocker Spaniel's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
- Puppy (0 to 6 months)
- Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid): Very High Risk, Ear infection: Very High Risk, Gastritis: High Risk
- Young Adult (7 months to 4 years)
- Cherry eye (prolapsed 3rd eyelid): Very High Risk, Ear infection: Moderate Risk, Skin allergies: Above Average Risk
- Mature Adult (5 years to 7 years)
- Seizures: High Risk, Ear infection: Moderate Risk, Intervertebral disc disease: Moderate Risk
- Senior (8+ years)
- Cushings disease: Very High Risk, Valvular heart disease: Very High Risk, Pancreatitis: Moderate Risk
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.
Do Cocker Spaniels need their coats cut?
Do Cocker Spaniels need their coats cut?
How do I keep my Spaniel’s coat fluffy?
How do I keep my Spaniel’s coat fluffy?
How often should I groom my Cocker Spaniel?
How often should I groom my Cocker Spaniel?
Cocker exercise & training
Cocker fun facts
Top girl names for Cockers
of Cockers are female
of Cockers are male
Top boy names for Cockers
Nationwide loves American Cocker Spaniels of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 0% |
| Female | 100% |
Among American Cocker Spaniels insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.
American Cocker Spaniel statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.
Other breeds like Cockers
Best. American Cocker Spaniel insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free