American Cocker Spaniel for sale

They are usually affectionate, people oriented, and eager to please, which suits many family homes. Most enjoy children and visitors but can be sensitive to rough handling or loud, chaotic environments. Early socialization helps reduce shyness, overexcitability, and barking. They thrive when they can be close to their owners and included in daily life.

The long, silky coat requires consistent care to avoid mats, especially on the ears, belly, and feathering. Many owners brush at least several times a week and schedule professional grooming every 4 to 8 weeks. Trimming around the feet, sanitary areas, and face helps keep the coat manageable. Regular ear cleaning is essential because heavy, coated ears trap moisture and debris.

Their small size and typically moderate energy level can work well in an apartment if their exercise and social needs are met. Daily walks, play sessions, and mental enrichment are important to prevent boredom and nuisance barking. They are often sensitive to being left alone for long periods, which can lead to vocalizing. Good soundproofing and training for quiet behavior are helpful in close quarters.

They are prone to several inherited issues, especially eye diseases such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, and ear infections related to their heavy ears. Skin allergies, autoimmune conditions, and hip dysplasia also occur in the breed. Reputable breeders screen for eye, hip, and sometimes cardiac issues. Regular veterinary checks, ear care, and weight control can reduce the impact of many problems.

Most adults do well with about 45 to 90 minutes of combined physical and mental exercise daily. This can include brisk walks, fetch, gentle hiking, and training games that use their natural willingness to work with people. Although often described as companion dogs, they still retain sporting-dog energy. Under exercised individuals may become hyperactive, anxious, or barky in the home.

They shed a moderate amount year round, with more noticeable shedding as coat length increases. The breed is not hypoallergenic, because they release dander and hair like most coated dogs. Regular brushing and professional grooming help control loose hair and reduce tangles. People with allergies should spend time with the breed before committing to ownership.

They are generally willing to learn and respond well to positive reinforcement, since they enjoy food rewards and praise. Their sensitivity means harsh corrections can cause anxiety or shutdown, which may be misread as stubbornness. Short, varied training sessions work best and help channel their energy into polite behaviors. Consistent boundaries from puppyhood are important because many will test limits gently but persistently.

The heavy, feathered ears limit airflow to the ear canal, which increases the risk of infections and yeast overgrowth. Owners should check and clean the ears regularly, especially after bathing, swimming, or time in damp grass. Keeping the hair around the ear opening neatly trimmed can improve ventilation. Any odor, redness, or head shaking should be checked by a veterinarian promptly.

They can suit first-time owners who are prepared for the grooming commitment and willing to invest in training and socialization. Their typically gentle, eager-to-please nature is forgiving of beginner mistakes, but unmanaged grooming, separation issues, or barking can become stressful. New owners should budget for regular professional grooming and preventive veterinary care. Puppy classes and early exposure to different environments help build a stable adult dog.

A responsible breeder health tests breeding dogs for known issues in the breed, especially eye conditions and hip disease, and is open about results. They prioritize stable, friendly temperaments and are honest about both the strengths and challenges of the breed. Puppies are raised indoors with careful socialization and do not leave before an appropriate age. You should be asked many questions in return, because a good breeder wants to ensure a suitable long-term home.