* 
The Cocker Spaniel 263 
Body.—Comparatively short, compact and firmly knit together, giving 
the impression of a concentration of power and untiring activity. Chest 
deep rather than wide, not narrow fronted nor yet so wide as to interfere 
with free action of the fore legs. Ribs well sprung, deep and carried far 
back, short in the coupling and flank, free from any tucked appearance. 
Back and loin immensely strong and compact in proportion to the size of 
the dog, the former level and the latter slightly arched. Hips wide, with 
quarters considerably rounded and very muscular. 
Legs and Feet.—Fore legs short and straight, though proportionately 
longer than in any of the other breeds of short-legged spaniels, strongly 
boned and muscled, with elbows well let down and straight, short, strong 
pasterns. Hind legs proportionately short. Stifles well bent. Second 
thighs clearly defined. Hocks clean, strong, well let down, bent and turn- 
ing neither in nor out, the hind quarters from a back view presenting an 
impressive combination of propelling power. Feet neither small nor 
large, round, firm, not spreading, and with deep, strong, horny pads and 
plenty of hair between the toes. They should turn neither in nor out. 
Stern.—Should be set on and carried level with the back, and when 
at work its action should be incessant in this, the brightest and merriest 
of the whole spaniel family. 
Coat.—Flat or slightly waved, silky and very dense, with ample setter- 
like feather. 
Colour and Markings.—Blacks should be jet black, and reds, livers, 
etc., should never be of faded or “washy” shades, but of good sound colours. 
White on the chest of self-colours, while objectionable, should not dis- 
qualify. 
Weight—Not under eighteen nor exceeding twenty-four pounds. 
General Description—Embodying the foregoing, i.e., a neat-headed, 
wide-awake, serviceable-looking little dog with an expression of great 
intelligence, short in body when viewed from above, yet standing over 
considerable ground for one of his inches upon strong, straight front legs, 
with wide, muscular quarters suggestive of immense power, especially 
when viewed from behind. A downward tendency in front he ought not 
to possess, but should stand well up at the shoulders like the clever little 
sporting dog that he is. Massive in appearance by reason of his sturdy 
body, powerful quarters and strong, well-boned limbs, he should never- 
theless impress one as being a dog capable of considerable speed combined 
