Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels were recognized by the AKC in 1878. Generally smaller than the English, separate classes were created for the two types in America in 1935 and the Cocker Spaniel Club of America discouraged breeding between the two types in 1938.[14] The American Cocker Spaniel was recognized as a separate breed by the KC in the UK in 1970.[28] The American Cocker Spaniel is referred to as the Cocker Spaniel within the United States.[14]
The American Cocker Spaniel was bred smaller, as American woodcocks are smaller than their European relatives, and the breed's appearance changed slightly during the first part of the 20th century ,as the preference by American breeders was for a more stylish appearance.[7] The standard size according to the AKC is between 14.5 and 15.5 inches (37 and 39 cm) at the withers for males and 13.5–14.5 inches (34–37 cm) for females.[29] The weight of the breed is typically between 24 and 30 pounds (11 and 14 kg).[30]
At the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, the most prestigious dog show in the United States,[31] the American Cocker Spaniel has won Best in Show on four occasions since its first award in 1907. The most successful breed is the Wire Fox Terrier with 13 wins.[32] The American Cocker Spaniel is judged in three separate breed classes under AKC rules; "black", "parti-color", and "any solid color other than black..." (ASCOB).[33] Sophia and Olivia won the gold medal of dog showing in