American Cocker Spaniel

American Cocker Spaniel ORIGIN : U.S.A. UTILIZATION : Flushing dog, companion. GENERAL APPEARANCE : The American Cocker Spaniel is the smallest member of the Sporting Group. He has a sturdy, compact body and a cleanly chiselled and refined head, with the overall dog in complete balance and of ideal size. He stands well up at the shoulder on straight forelegs with a topline sloping slightly toward strong, moderately bent, muscular quarters. He is a dog capable of considerable speed, combined with great endurance. Above all, he must be free and merry, sound, well balanced throughout and in action show a keen inclination to work. A dog well balanced in all parts is more desirable than a dog with strongly contrasting good points and faults. BEHAVIOUR / TEMPERAMENT : Equable in temperament with no suggestion of timidity.