The American Cocker Spaniel evolved in the United States from spaniels imported from Great Britain. The name cocker comes from the fact that the breed originally hunted woodcock. In the United States the breed is registered under the name "Cocker Spaniel", as is the English Cocker Spaniel in the UK, which can cause confusion between these two breeds. By the 1930s the American variety had become so different from its English ancestors that it was given separate breed status. Originally a gun dog, the Cocker now fulfills the position of family pet or show dog most often and is rarely seen hunting. He is a faithful and responsible children's companion. Cockers have been a highly popular American breed since the 1940s, occupying the top position in number of American Kennel Club registrations in many years.

American Cockers weigh 24 to 28 pounds (11 to 12.75 kg) and stand 15 inches (38 cm) maximum height. They come in three major color varieties: black, ASCOB (Any Solid Color Other than Black) and particolor. The other solid colors are chocolate, red, buff, cream, and sable. The domed head, large dark expressive eyes, short deep muzzle, and abrupt stop are characteristic breed points. The coat is flowing, long, silky and abundant. The long, luxuriantly feathered ears are a striking breed feature.

Cocker Spaniels are susceptible to a variety of maladies, particularly infections, affecting their ears and, in some cases, their eyes. As a result, they may require more medical attention than some other breeds.

Their temperament is typically happy, trusting, and intelligent. However, their popularity also led to considerable bad breeding in an attempt to keep up with the demand, and some lines contain dogs who tend to be high strung and snappish. As with all puppies, owners are advised to choose their breeder carefully.

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