What are the differences between American Cocker Spaniels and English Cocker Spaniels? Cocker Spaniels have often been mistaken for Golden Retrievers because the yellow-haired Cocker Spaniel and Golden Retriever look very similar. However, Cocker Spaniels are divided into American and English types. Today, let's look at the differences between these two.

1. Appearance

 What are the differences between American Cocker Spaniels and English Cocker Spaniels? From the perspective of appearance, when an English Cocker and an American Cocker stand together, the English Cocker is perceived to be taller, especially when both dogs are of standard height, making the difference more obvious. According to AKC standards, the ideal height difference between an English Cocker and an American Cocker averages1.5 inches, which is about3.8 centimeters. Based on this value, there is a noticeable gap. In addition, the English Cocker gives off a simpler and more modest impression, while the American Cocker appears more exaggerated and flamboyant, a feeling somewhat similar to the difference between English and American people.

2. Face

   What are the differences between American Cocker Spaniels and English Cocker Spaniels? American Cockers have very large and round eyes, a relatively rounded skull, and a deep stop. The muzzle presented is short and thick with a square shape, very full and possessing a playful look, covered by the upper lip;

While the English Cocker Spaniel is the complete opposite in appearance, with almond-shaped eyes, a flatter head, a shallow stop, and a relatively narrow and moderately long muzzle.

3. Coat

   What are the differences between American Cocker Spaniels and English Cocker Spaniels? American Cocker Spaniels have an excessively abundant coat, especially on the head, tail, and body, which can be difficult for owners who do not prefer very hairy dogs to tolerate. The American Cocker looks like it is wearing a specially made sweater and pants all over its body.

However, the English Cocker’s coat is very moderate, allowing owners to more clearly observe the body structure of the English Cocker Spaniel. In terms of coat style, the English Cocker Spaniel has the advantage.

4. Color:

   What are the differences between American Cocker Spaniels and English Cocker Spaniels? American Cockers have black, which is a solid black body but allows small white patches on the throat and chest. Any solid color other than black, ranging from the lightest cream to the darkest red and all intermediate shades, are also allowed with small white patches on the throat and chest. There are also parti-colors, which are two or more distinctly marked solid colors, one of which must be white.

   What are the differences between American Cocker Spaniels and English Cocker Spaniels? English Cocker colors are diverse, including parti-colors with neat and distinct patches or speckled colors, predominantly white combined with black, liver, or different shades of red. There are also solid black, liver, or various shades of red. Solid colors with white feet are considered faults, but small white markings on the throat are allowed.