How does the English cocker spaniel differ from the American version?

Question

Mostly in terms of temperament, I mean...

Answer 1

Uh its from another country

Answer 2

The American Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel used to be born in the same litter. In 1946 the AKC separated the two breeds and today's American Cocker has changed greatly from the older style dogs that were so prevalent in the past. In fact the Cocker Spaniel was first in popularity in 1936 and kept that position for 17 years until the Beagle became the first in popularity in 1953.
Today's American Cocker can be distinguished from her English cousin (former brother) through a rounder skull, fuller coat and shorter muzzle. The cocker spaniel is supposed to have a merry temperament and trust me there are many that have absolutely wonderful temperaments. I have even seen them accidentally cut during grooming and be so sweet that they don't say a word let alone snap. On the other hand, like any breed that has enjoyed too much of the lime light, over breeding by some has created some dogs that do not have the best of temperaments. Those people that show in general do not put up with bad temperaments especially in breeds that call for a merry temperament. The Cocker is supposed to have its tail up or at least out and not down in the ring and a bad temperament or a fearful dog will put that tail right down. So not only are show dogs not allowed to exhibit aggressive behavior, but they should have good merry temperaments. You can take a better look at both these breeds at AKC.org (Links provided bellow).
I should say also that the English Cocker has more of a setter type head in the modern dog as opposed to the American, and the English carries less coat although it is heavily feathered, and a lovely breed to. Today each has a different look or expression. Cockers.com will give you some info on some good American Cocker breeders.
There are links to videos on each of those pages and you can see better what the breeds look like.

Answer 3

The English Cocker Spaniel differs from the American Cocker Spaniel in several areas. The head is shaped with a longer muzzle, flatter head and less prominent eyes. The English Cocker Spaniel is slightly taller, heavier and more solid. The English Cocker Spaniel does not have the profusion of tummy coat and leg furnishing found on the American Cocker Spaniel. The classic temperament of the English Cocker Spaniel is that of the "Merry Cocker." English Cocker Spaniels are friendly, affectionate, and loyal. This is most obviously displayed in the incessant tail wagging of a happy English Cocker Spaniel. They are good with children and make wonderful companion dogs. English Cocker Spaniels need daily exercise as a outlet for their energy. They make wonderful dogs for many activities including hunting, obedience, tracking, agility, fly-ball and therapy. Although, English Cocker Spaniels are alert, they will not attack strangers. They are more likely to lick a burglar than to protect your home. English Cocker Spaniels are sensitive and quick learners, especially when trained with motivational methods. They do exhibit some independence when outside the home due to their hunting background, but do not wander out of your eyesight. Inside the home, they stick close to you. They will watch you take a shower, share your bed, give you kisses and play a game at any moments notice.
English Cocker Spaniels can live in any environment, provided they have daily exercise. Brisk walks, fetching or field work can keep an English Cocker Spaniel in excellent shape.

English Cocker Spaniels need human companionship. Although they can sleep all day while you're at work, they require lots of attention and exercise when you're home.
In America, after World War I, the English Cocker type was less favored than the American cocker type which was forming. The American type was smaller and more elegant. The two Cocker Spaniels were shown together, competing against one another, until 1936 when the English Cocker received status as a variety. Pedigree research began in order to separate the English Cocker from the American Cocker. The English Cocker Spaniel Club of America pledged not to interbreed the two types. The American Kennel Club granted a separate breed designation for the English Cocker Spaniel in 1946.

In the 1960's the American Cocker Spaniel gained popularity as a show dog in the United Kingdom and qualified for its own breed classification in 1968. Although the American Cocker Spaniel has gained popularity as a companion dog in the United Kingdom, the English Cocker Spaniel remains among the most popular breeds in the United Kingdom.

In the United Kindgom and much of the world, the name "Cocker Spaniel" refers to the English Cocker Spaniel, while in the United States the name "Cocker Spaniel" refers to the American Cocker Spaniel. Confused? So was I...lol :)

Answer 4

The American Cocker Spaniel, also known just as the Cocker Spaniel, has an equal temperament that is never timid. The Cocker Spaniel is the smallest member of the Sporting Group, and therefore always smaller than the English Cocker.

The English Cocker Spaniel has a merry and lively personality. He is never lazy but also never over-active. The ECS is an exuberant worker as well as a faithful and loving companion. This dog is multi-purpose in field, tracking, obedience, companion, and other areas of work.


Although these two dogs look alike, they are indeed very different in shape, size, and structure.


http://www.akc.org/breeds/english_cocker_spaniel/index.cfm

http://www.akc.org/breeds/cocker_spaniel/index.cfm

Answer 5

In my experience, English Cockers are less aggressive than American Cockers. This is primarily because the American has been over-bred and bred by many irresponsible people who have tried to capitalize on their popularity. Because English Cockers are not as popular, more of the breeders are responsible and breed for temperament as well as physical attributes.

Poorly bred American Cockers can be highly aggressive, especially with children and strangers. Buff CS seem to have higher incidences of aggression than the other colors (again, because this is the most popular color). If you do your homework and get an Amer. CS from a reputable breeder, or adopt one from a shelter or rescue who does thorough behavior screenings, there is no reason you can't have a sweet and gentle dog, though.

Answer 6

In terms of temperment, the American Cocker is mean and spiteful whereas the English Cocker is sweet and loving. If you have kids, DON'T get an American Cocker from just any backyard breeder or pet store. Research the breeder and get some references. English Cockers can be expensive $500+ but they are well worth the money if they come from a good line. Don't worry if they haven't won a Best In Show ribbon but look at the lineage and see if you see any regional or national field trial champions in the US, Canada or Great Britian. Any reputable breeder will have both sire's and dam's family tree.

Answer 7

english haven't been so over bred and are not as popular,,,,, they are better looking tooo........ sadly when a dog becomes popular, backyard breeders start breeding and the breeds temperament, health start going down the drain..... as with the american cocker.......... that is why you will find alot of people won't brag about their favorite breed ( they even cringe when a movie comes out featuring a dog) for instance,, goldens,,,, look what air bud, incredible journey has done to the golden population.... such a shame..... in any case English cockers are very nice dogs.... go to AKC.ORG and read their breed standard etc......