Temperament
Bold and keen to work, the American Cocker Spaniel is equally suited to life as a gundog or as a household pet. Cheerful, sweet, and sensitive, the Cocker Spaniel is respectful of its master’s authority without much challenge.
Merry and endearing. A happy tail-wagger. Gentle and trusting, with average intelligence. They are lively, playful and devoted, but should be socialized well when they are young to avoid a tendency for shyness.
Usually good with children. Cockers love everyone and need people to be happy. They can be difficult to housebreak and some like to bark. However they are mostly easy to train and get along well with other animals.
Note: This is a very popular breed; the above is the typical temperament of the American Cocker Spaniel, like any breed there are always exceptions. Due to this breeds popularity one must be careful to choose a Cocker from a reputable breeder; as some have reported that their cockers did not have great temperaments, and were not good with children. Cockers with this type of temperament are not typical of the breed.
Before adopting an American Cocker, be sure to give it a puppy temperament test and if possible ask to meet the parents. Beware of poorly bred puppy-mill Cockers as they may have bizarre temperamental changes and behavioral problems. This would include shy-sharpness, which is a combination of fear and dominance that can cause viciousness.
Also look out for submissive urinating; aggressive guarding of objects, people and places, hyper-sexuality and roaming, especially amongst males.

Height, Weight
Height at the shoulder: Dogs 15 1?2 inches (38cm.) Bitches 14 1?2 inches (36.8cm.)
Weight: 15-30 pounds (7-14 kg.)