The English Cocker Spaniel is a separate breed from the American Cocker Spaniel, though it shares many similarities with the breed. The primary difference between the two breeds is in appearance. American Cockers have round eyes, a rounded skull and a shorter muzzle than their English cousins. There are also differences in colors of the breeds, with the popular buff color of American Cockers not available in English Cockers.

One way that the breeds are very similar is in their hunting abilities. Both dogs were originally bred to flush game, but due to their recent popularity, most of their original hunting instincts and talents have been lost in the show lines.

On the field front the English Cocker Spaniel is experiencing a resurgence in this country thanks to the devotion of a small group of dedicated individuals. To see my original write-up on this breed it is almost laughable how little I knew about these dogs at the time. The phrase often used is "cockers are characters" and this merry little dogs do not disappoint. Animated little hunting dogs that get the job done, if you are looking for a small flushing breed that can be part of the family, look no further than the "pocket rocket" English Cocker.

Clubs and Organizations

• The English Cocker Spaniel Club of America, Inc.
  http://www.ecsca.org
  

Health Information

• Cocker Health
  http://www.ecsca.org/healthed.html

Rescue Information

• Cocker Rescue
  http://www.ecsca.org/rescue.html

Other Sites of Interest--Breeders and General Interest

• Glencoe Kennels
  http://www.glencoekennels.com/
• Cockers in the Field
  http://www.fieldcockers.com/
  
• Oahe Kennels
  http://www.oahekennels.com/
  
• Field Cockers
  http://www.fieldcockers.com/
• Spaniels In The Field
  http://www.spanielsinthefield.com/
• Spaniel Journal
  http://www.spanieljournal.com/