MALE OR FEMALE? There is a difference in temperament
to consider when choosing between a male or female Cocker
Spaniel. The males grow slightly larger than the females and
can be a bit stronger. I think males are generally more loving
and faithful than the females, but they can take a little longer
to house train, and, at around the time of puberty, males can
get a bit full of their own importance and need slightly firmer
handling.

Generally, the MALES are apt to be "lovable slobs" and "just
good ol' boys." Males tend to be more stable and reliable in
mood, meaning they are less prone to emotional swings
though they are sometimes clumsy and silly and prone to
acting like oversized puppies. They mean well and are easy
to love. Come to think of it, that sounds very similar to their
human counterparts . . . hmmmmm.

Generally, the FEMALES are more subtle than males. They
are affectionate on their own terms. They'll ask for petting,
then assert their independence by moving away when they
have had enough. Females are often quicker to learn and
not as easily distracted during training sessions. They are
less likely to engage in open dominance challenges, but
they can be clever and manipulative about getting their own
way. They are prone to mood swings and being "melondrama
queens". Remarkably, female dogs also resemble their
human counterparts . . . hmmmmm, go figure.

History of Cockers - Despite their name, the American Cocker Spaniel is originally a breed of Spanish blood. The Spanish Spaniel is considered to be the oldest of the recognized spaniels. Developed by crossing setters and spaniels, it was during the seventeen century that Cockers were divided into the water and land spaniels. The Cocker Spaniel was recognized as a breed in England, and the English Cocker Spaniel was brought to the United States where it developed different lines from the English Cocker. The American Cocker Spaniel was first recognized by the AKC in 1878 and has been exhibited in the United States since the early 1880s. The name "Cocker" comes from the woodcock, a game bird these spaniels flushed particularly well. Today, the American Cocker Spaniel serves primarily as a companion and glamorous show dog. They are also used for hunting, tracking, retrieving, watch-dogging and agility.

Me and my Cockers - Now let me tell you about me. I have Cocker Spaniels because they are like four year old children who never really grow up. They have enriched my life and given me more pleasure and companionship than I ever expected from a four legged critter! They make me laugh. When one of my friends tells me that they are considering marriage or entering into a serious relationship, my stock response is "Why don't you get a Cocker Spaniel instead?" You have probably guessed that above all else I am a confirmed "Cocker Mom".

And a bit of Cocker Spaniel humor: I love my master; thus I perfume myself with this long-rotten squirrel. I lie belly up in the sunshine, happier than you ever will be. Today I sniffed many dog butts. I celebrate by kissing your face. I sound the alarm! Paperboy! come to kill us all!!! Look Look Look Look Look! I sound the alarm! Mailman! fiend! come to kill us all!!! Look Look Look Look Look! My human is home! I am so ecstatic I have made a puddle. I hate my choke chain. Look, world, they strangle me! Ack Ack Ack Ack Ack Ack! Sleeping here, my chin on your foot . . . there is no greater bliss . . . well, maybe catching cats. Look in my eyes and deny it. No human could love you as much I do. The cat is not all bad . . . she fills the litter box with Tootsie Rolls. I am your best friend, now, always, and especially when you are eating. My owners' mood is romantic . . . I lie near their feet. I fart a big one.

Author Unknown