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Happy but not yappy, the Cocker has won the hearts of millions of pet owners. The breed's ancestry is identical to that of the English Cocker, which was first imported to North America during the 1880s. Through selective breeding during the next 50 years, breeders in the United States gradually developed a different type of Cocker. This was a smaller dog that was higher on leg, shorter backed, with a sloping topline and shorter muzzle, more domed in skull and with profuse leg furnishings. For a time this attractive little dog became almost too popular for its own good. Overproduction threatened to destroy its merry temperament. Fortunately, this trend is now reversing. The luxurious coat comes in three color varieties: black, parti-color (white with markings in another color), or any solid color other than black. A good brushing every day will keep the coat mat-free. Males measure up to 15.5 inches at the shoulder, females 1 inch less. While the breed is probably still capable of working as a gundog, the majority of American Cockers enjoy life as loved and loving family pets that enjoy spending time with the children and going on daily walks. The breed fits well into most accommodations.

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