hi

i have just seen some photos of these dogs on a web site.  They look fabulous but do they make good family pets.  has anyone any info on them re grooming/excercise etc.  also, i`m presuming that they would be rather expensive as well as difficult to come accross.  Is this right?

Thank you

Hi guest, I can give you any info you want on American Cockers, but unfortunatley your post will be removed unless you add contact details.

They are wonderful bright, bubbly dogs.  The coat requires a considerable degree of commitment.  Generally speaking the full, flowing coats seen on show dogs are not practical for the average pet, as they require a full bath and blow dry at least every 5 days, plus very regular clipping, trimming and handstripping.  However, there are several variations on pet trims which keep the typical look of the breed but makes routine maintenance much easier.  The puppy trim, the most popular, looks cute, requires a brush out a couple of times a week, but does need regular visits to your groomer (every 4 - 6 weeks).

They make wonderful family pets (they are one of the most popular breeds in the USA) being outgoing, fairly easy to train, very eager to please.  They dont require enormous amounts of excercise, but are very happy to join in if you if you want to do long country walks too! :)
Most of mine love joining in ball games, love a paddle in the sea, they truly need to be a very important part of the family, and expect to join in everything you do ;)

It is very importatn to remember that the breed does have some hereditary helath problems.  The most common and well known is hereditary cataract, it is therefore vital only to buy from breeders who have regualr eye tests on all breeding dogs and bitches, and to only consider a pup whose parents both have current , clear eye certificates.  Also in the breed, but in a smaller way, is epilepsy, kidney/liver problems,  and back problems.  Carefully check out the breeders knowledge of their dogs standing with relation to these, and discount anyone who tells you that the breed is not affected by them!

Prices vary widely, if you are looking for a show or pet puppy, sex and colour can all have an effect.  Roughly speaking the range is from £450 to £800.  You should note that it is not always the best breeders who are asking the most money in the breed ;).
bye
Gwen

hi
well i have nothing to add gwen has said everything i can think of about the breed
bibi fiona