Is A Cocker Spaniel Breed Right For You?
Are you thinking about bringing a dog into your life and wondering, “Is the Cocker Spaniel breed right for me?” My heart beats dog®, and truth be told, it thumps with extra beats in a canine rhythm for American Cocker Spaniels. As a 30+-year veteran of the Cocker Spaniel world, I am often asked about this stunning breed.
Happy, smart, gentle, and with a merry disposition: These are the breed standards of the American Cocker Spaniel. If you are interested in bringing a Cocker Spaniel into you life, here’s everything you need to know.
Cocker Spaniel History
The Cocker Spaniel has an interesting history. It is believed that spaniels originated in Spain, and Chaucer first wrote about them in the year 1340 in the book Canterbury Tales (more specifically, The Wife of Bath and the word “Spanyells.”). However, archeologists have found models of dogs resembling spaniels in ancient Egyptian tombs.
In the 13th and 14th centuries, spaniels sniffed out and cornered hawks and falcons into a “corner” until the hunters could come along and fling a net over both dog and quarry. It was not until the late 1700s that the various distinctions between Springers, Cockers, Toys, Clumbers, Sussex, and Field Spaniels were bred.
The American Cocker Spaniel was founded in 1881 when two types of Cockers emerged: the English Cocker and the American Cocker Spaniel. The American Cocker is the smallest member of the sporting dog class.
With the wide eyes of melted chocolate and the adorable little face of a blonde Cocker in The Big Book of Dogs, I was immediately captivated by the breed. “Someday, I’ll have a dog just like that” my 7-year-old self made a mental note.
Fun Fact: When someone says “Cocker Spaniel” they are most likely referring to the American Cocker Spaniel, not the English Cocker.
Care for the Cocker Spaniel Coat
The overall care for a Cocker on a scale of 0-10, with 0 being none and 10 being tons is about an 8. In the Cocker Spaniel Handbook, D. Caroline Coile, Ph.D., writes, “The Cocker coat care requires dedication and know-how. Fortunately, you have choices.”
Cockers have a long, thick, wavy coat. Cocker hair grows like wildfire. One day, you get the Cocker groomed, and then poof, you wake up and think, “When did all that hair grow back?” It is extremely beneficial to brush her daily. It is part of our nighttime routine: Brushing the coat, brushing the teeth, and checking for any lumps, bumps, or nuances in change along the way.
Those Cockers you see on television at dog shows look glamorous and beautiful because a ton of money and time has been invested in their diet, coat, and physical appearance: both inside and out.
It is in the best interest of the Cocker parent to find a reputable, trustworthy groomer and to do so early on. Dogs should be comfortable having their feet touched, their face handled, their nails clipped, and so on. If you get a Cocker puppy, handle them often, touch their feet, be gentle and brush their coat and get them used to being handled.
Of course, if you are like me and want to try your hand at grooming a Cocker, know this: It is not easy, it is not without effort, and a combination of the right tools and patience is key.
I am presently enrolled in a home study course to learn to groom my Cocker at home. Learn more about home grooming of a Cocker Spaniel. Learning to groom your Cocker isn’t a quick and easy process. It can be done, but it takes work, practice, and someone to guide you in person and through study.
Cockers can easily tangle and mat. If you aren’t prepared to care for the Cocker coat, keep the ears free of hair and mats, and to ensure the coat is brushed and healthy, consider another type of dog.
Do Cocker Spaniels Shed a Lot?
Yes, but not like other heavier shedding breeds. Also, not all Cockers shed to the same capacity. After a bath, I notice my Cocker sheds a bit as well as during certain seasons. It is not constant, I do not wear fur all over my clothes, but yes, they do shed. Carry a pet hair remover product with you and keep one in the car.
Fun Fact: One of the best and most efficient ways to bathe your Cocker Spaniel is the frothing method.
What Colors Are Cocker Spaniel Dogs?
There are many different varieties of the Cocker coat color, but the ones you will see in the ring and which conform to breed standard are:
- ASCOB (Any Solid Color Other Than Black)
- Black
- Black with Tan Points
- Parti-Color
The American Spaniel Club more closely details the different color varieties.
There’s a lot of controversy around merle Cocker Spaniels, and with good reason. You’ll want to check out our article about the Merle Cocker Spaniel controversy.
Cocker Spaniel Personality
Cockers are a more sensitive breed. Textbooks and most Cocker parents will agree that Cockers are Velcro dogs. They love to be near their family members and are a breed more prone to separation anxiety. Some Cocker Spaniels love to cuddle.
Outside of her outer requirements, the Cocker Spaniel is definitely a breed that thrives with her pack. That isn’t to say a dog cannot be left alone, but because the Cocker is a nosy, social, and “what’s next on our agenda” kind of dog, it’s best not to leave them home alone for hours at a time, especially during the workday.
Consider coming home for lunch, having a pet sitter stop by, or enroll them in a doggie daycare where you can check in and watch on a webcam.
Fun Fact: Here are 101 things you can do with your dog indoors.
Cockers, like all dogs, need exercise. They love to be couch potatoes with you and snuggle. They also love to play ball, go on long walks, and there are those Cocker parents who engage with their dogs in agility, fly ball, lure course, and many other exercises.
Lovers of the breed are familiar with the term ‘Cockertude,’ defined as the look and attitude a Cocker Spaniel gives when they simply are over it. *grin*
I learned to groom my Cocker at home. If you’d prefer the services of a professional dog groomer, here’s how to find a Cocker Spaniel groomer you can trust.
Cockers may or may not like the water: I’ve seen both. The ear of the Cocker Spaniel has its own unique challenges and for this reason, you must engage in due diligence. Speaking of ears…
Health of the Cocker Spaniel
This writer has experienced most problems that can be associated with a Cocker Spaniel. Here is a brief overview of some of the more common health problems that can affect Cocker Spaniels.
Ears
The big hanging, floppy ears are gorgeous but have their downside. Ear infections can thrive deep within the ear canal and cause a whole host of issues, namely pain and problems for the dog. Sometimes an ear infection is present and the dog parent will have no idea; you can’t see it after all.
Cockers affected with an ear infection may shake their head, paw or scratch at the ear, roll on the floor sideways to itch it, and there may be a rancid odor or even debris upon inspection. Always seek veterinary care.
If your Cocker is a water pooch, you need to be extremely careful to watch for any signs of infection and maintain the inner and outer ear to keep it healthy and infection-free.
Here’s how to prevent and treat ear infections in Cocker Spaniels.
Of note, dogs with food sensitivities and/or allergies to food or any number of triggers can get ear infections as a result. Cockers can have more skin issues than other breeds. As a good pet parent, just know what to watch for and have the veterinarian assess any consistent itching, biting, licking, or scratching.
Immune System
I check my dog’s gums for any change in color from their usual pink to reddish healthy hue to anything that slightly resembles pale. This routine is performed nightly in conjunction with bedtime teeth brushing. I fear those four letters more almost as much as I do the Big C. In this case, I am referring to IMHA, or Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia in dogs.
My Cocker, Dexter, was diagnosed with IMT, immune-mediated thrombocytopenia in dogs, and it nearly cost him his life. Because we rushed him to the emergency veterinarian when we noticed changes in his gum color, we saved his life.
Cushing’s Disease and Addison’s Disease are also known to affect Cocker Spaniels, both English and American types.
Skin
Some breeds produce more sebaceous oil than others, and the Cocker Spaniel is but one of them. Since they produce more oil, they can have more skin problems, including lumps, bumps, and growths. There are so many different things that a lump can be that each new lump should be brought to the attention of the veterinarian.
Some of the lumps my Cockers have dealt with over the years turned out to be (after aspirating, biopsy, and/or eventual removal) include:
- Mast cell cancer of the skin
- Sebaceous cyst
- Fatty tumor
- Warts
Take the time to check out our Pet Parent’s Guide to Lumps on a Dog
In most cases, a lump will need to be aspirated at the very least. There is one thing that I can absolutely tell you about lumps on a dog: There is no way to know what a lump is unless it is tested in some way. Not every lump needs to be surgically removed. A lump can be monitored or lasered off by the vet in many cases.
Eyes
I could write an entire book on Cocker Spaniel eye issues, but suffice it to say that eye issues are a concern in the breed. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) can lead to blindness. Cockers can also get cataracts or glaucoma, plus the very common cherry eye. Our first Cocker was affected by bilateral cherry eye. Back in the 1990s, corrective surgery removed the swollen gland. Nowadays, there are a number of techniques used to help a dog with cherry eye.
At the very least, a qualified vet should be performing a complete yearly eye examination on the Cocker. Another option is to take your Cocker to an eye clinic in your area. With a few droplets of a solution in each eye, a veterinarian will assess if your dog is affected by a number of eye diseases.
Diligent Cocker breeders will include eye clearances on both the mother, father, and potentially others in the line before breeding or adopting Cocker puppies out to a pet home.
How Much Should Cocker Spaniels Weigh?
Because Cockers love food so much, they can very easily become overweight, which leads to all sorts of health problems. Like people, each dog is different and that goes for Cocker Spaniels. American Cockers tend to be a bit smaller than English Cocker Spaniels, so keep that in mind as you aim for your dog’s ideal weight.
There are breed standards and then there are Cockers who come from breeders and/or rescue and don’t fit the standard. The following numbers are averages:
Cocker Weight: 26 to 33 pounds for females; 29 to 35 pounds for males.
Cocker Height: 14 to 16 inches for females; 15 to 17 inches for males.
Read our article on Cocker Spaniel weight.
Preventing Health Problems In Cocker Spaniels
Genetics of a dog will predict a lot of things. Some Cockers may inherit genetic variants for disorders commonly associated with the breed.
Always have your Cocker’s thyroid screened as they are prone to thyroid issues.
I ordered a genetic test kit from Embark for all of my Cocker Spaniels. It screens for genetic health risks and can trace your dog’s breed and ancestry to their great-grandparents. You can share the results with your veterinarian and take proactive steps to support your pup’s overall health.
If you have a purebred Cocker, consider partaking in an eye clinic conducted by Dr. Gustavo Aguirre from the University of Pennsylvania. The doctor and his team are trying to find the gene responsible for cataracts in Cockers.
A reputable breeder will work with the University of Pennsylvania’s PennHip diagnostic tool, which evaulates Cocker hips to determine their chances of getting hip dysplasia later in life.
Most reputable breeders will do genetic testing so they do not breed dogs with genetic issues, such as progressive retinal atrophy.
Cocker Spaniel Tail Docking
There’s a lot of controversy around this topic, but Cocker Spaniel tail docking is primarily done on American Cockers Spaniels in the United States.
It is part of the breed standard and also prevents the tail from being harmed in the brush or brambles outside.
The Cocker Spaniel Personality
Backyard breeders, puppy mills, and crappy owners can lead to a dog who snaps or bites. This is true for any breed. It has been my experience in owning Cockers for over three decades that people have one of two schools of thought on Cockers:
- They are awesome dogs;
- They snap and I wouldn’t want one;
My first Cocker was a puppy mill rescue. If you don’t know what a puppy mill is and want to learn, we have written about puppy mills (no sad or disturbing photos). There is such a thing as Cocker rage in some dogs, and puppy mills perpetuate this concern.
Despite all of our best intentions, positive reinforcement, training, and a life of love, she would snap if someone startled her or tried to lunge at her, as oftentimes kids will do. We learned to keep her out of those situations and when in public, we did not engage in a situation that might escalate.
My other two Cocker Spaniels are the opposite. We know their background, breed line, and we are more experienced Cocker parents now. I will always support reputable Cocker rescue groups and reputable Cocker Spaniel breeders.
I’ll never forget a line I read in a Cocker Spaniel magazine many years ago, and I wish I could credit the person. She said, “Cockers have a very soft disposition and they do not do well with harsh discipline.”
Positive reinforcement is key in training a dog, and the Cocker is easily upset. Never spank a dog, never rub their nose in excrement (note: it’s disgusting, unhealthy, and an old wive’s tale), and always be kind to your dog, even when you might personally be upset or had a bad day.
Cockers left alone for hours on end while you are out will not thrive, so make adjustments such as daycare, having a friend stop by, a trusted dog walker, etc. to be with them in your absence.
What to Feed a Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are high-energy dogs that require the proper amount of biologically-appropriate proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins and minerals.
The breed is known for its love of food, so watching their weight is important. I keep track of my dog’s weight and ongoing notes in the DogMinder, which we created.
The dog food that we feed is from Dr. Harvey’s. I’ve been feeding Dr. Harvey’s for close to two decades with success. Here’s why Dr. Harvey’s is the best food for Cocker Spaniels.
Cockers tend to have a lot of sensitivities, food allergies, environmental allergies, and skin issues. What works for one Cocker may not work for another.
Are Cocker Spaniels Easy To Train?
Cocker Spaniels love to please their owner, and they are overall smart and easier to train than many other breeds.
They are loving and easy-going but also a sensitive breed that does not respond well to harshness or yelling. Cockers have a high prey drive and want to make you happy. Return the favor by training them with positive reinforcement techniques.
The length of training sessions will vary by the age of the Cocker. Always keep sessions quick, focused, and full of fun.
Cocker Spaniel Breeders and Rescue Groups
I rescued a Cocker Spaniel and I also acquired Cockers through reputable breeders. Always do your homework, and follow the questions and steps in our detailed posts:
How to Find a Reputable Cocker Spaniel Breeder
Listing of Cocker Spaniel Rescue Groups
How Long Do Cocker Spaniels Live?
Cockers live anywhere between 12 and 15 years if their care is consistent, proper, and you take good care of the dog. I know of Cockers who have succumbed to illness at a much younger age, and I recently learned of an 18-year-old Cocker.
My first Cocker lived one week shy of 15 years. This writer believes she would have lived much longer, but irritable bowel disease took her from this earth.
My second Cocker Spaniel, was tragically and unexpectedly struck with hemangiosarcoma that robbed him of a longer life at 13 years 2 months old.
Here’s our in-depth article on how long Cocker Spaniels live and what to do to improve their longevity.
Where to Get a Cocker Spaniel
Ah, the great breeder versus rescue debate. I have dealt with both. There is no shame in screening potential reputable breeders who genuinely care about the Cocker Spaniel and the home into which he or she is placed. There are plenty of unscrupulous, money-hungry, unqualified backyard breeders and puppy mills. Know how to spot a good breeder.
When the Associated Press asked us why Cockers are so popular, we shared our logic and reasons.
Popularity will mandate and dictate what the general public demands. Puppy millers and horrid backyard breeders must be shut down. Puppy mills are selling thousands of dogs online, many who are sick, abused, and have health problems.
I’ve fostered dogs and advocate for rescuing dogs in need. We fundraise through Wigglebutt Warriors(r), our fundraising arm, to help dogs in need who have been abandoned, neglected, abused, and/or dumped.
Like breeders, there are awesome Cocker rescue groups and some with which I would not engage. At their core, a good rescue group puts the dog’s interests first. This has been my experience with OBG (Oldies but Goodies) Cocker Spaniel Rescue. There are many good and loving, dedicated Cocker rescue groups out there. Just do your homework.
If you choose to open your heart and rescue a Cocker Spaniel, some things to ask the rescue group include: What they know about the dog’s history, health, and background along with any special needs, issues, or health concerns. It’s better to know and be able to help the dog and be prepared than to be surprised, and a reputable rescue group will share with you what they know.
It is said that when you rescue a Cocker, they rescue you, too. I can personally attest to that. Here are some things dog rescue groups do wrong.
Fun Fact: A Cocker is a wonderful, wiggly, merry breed and a perfect companion for the right person or family. A Cocker is not for a short time and a Cocker, or any dog, is a commitment for life: At least the life of the dog.
Cockers Are:
- Foodies
- Wigglebutts
- Ball obsessed
- Clingy
- Funny
- Eternal puppies at heart
- Smart
- Hairy
- Can be more prone to ACL tears than other breeds
- Commonly associated with piddle excitement (they pee a bit when super happy, like when you come home)
Cockers Aren’t:
- Fond of Being Alone
- Cheap to Care For
- Boring
- Low energy
- Heavy runners (running yes, long distance marathoning, not advisable)
Bottom Line On Cocker Spaniels
I am a bit obsessed with the breed in a really good way: They wrap themselves around my heart in a way that other Cocker parents can understand, and I am ever the better person for it.
If you do get a Cocker, be loving, loyal, patient, kind, and simply be there. They will repay you a thousand wigglebutt times over for it. Learn more about a Cocker Spaniel’s personality
FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Cocker Spaniels.
There are differences between the ECS and ACS in size, coat, personality, and more. Read our in-depth post about American vs English Cocker Spaniel differences.
Yes, many Cockers love to do canine sports. Each dog is different, so be sure your dog is engaging in activities he likes. These events include rally, agility, nose work, obedience, dock diving, and more.
One of the most famous Cocker Spaniels is Lady from Disney’s epic film, Lady and the Tramp, released in 1955. Other famous Cockers include Ch. My Own Brucie, a male Cocker Spaniel, who won Best in Show at Westminster Kennel Club in 1940 and 1941.
Yes, many Cocker Spaniels are very good with cats. Slowly introduce the two and be sure to read our article on Cocker Spaniels and cats.
As someone who has been involved with the breed for over 30 years, I’ve learned that humanely docking the tail helps protect the Spaniel from injury in the field.
Yes, some Cockers tend to bark more than others, especially when they are excited or intent on something. They may bark at delivery people, and it not lovingly and properly trained, the barking can become excessive and continue.
Wonderful post. So informative. You talk about so many things a pet owner should be researching prior to choosing a breed for their family. I’m a spaniel fan and lover. I can’t wait to meet you and your Dexter.
We feel the very same way about you, Tonya 😉
Wow, this is a great resource for anyone thinking of getting a cocker! Probably the most thorough that I have seen! They are such cute dogs. 🙂
Yes indeed, high maintenance, loving, and oh so worth it 😉
It is so important to do your research on the breed before you get a dog and to check out rescues and Responsible Breeders (we hate Puppy Mills too and poor little Kilo the Pug still has issues).
Dex is a great Cocker Ambassador. I think “Cute Loving Wigglebutt” when I think of the breed now. However, I also know how much work goes into training, grooming and caring for him. Thanks for sharing your insights and information.
We are so glad that wigglebutt makes you think of Cockers and Dexter is appreciative of those kind words, too.
You did a good job of presenting all aspects of Cockers. Many novice dog guardians could very easily be won over by the Cocker cuteness, not keeping in mind the activity and care requirements of the breed.
Thanks for this info!
Appreciate the kind words, Karen.
I must say that you have opened my eyes to the Cocker breed. I remember when my children were young and we were considering our first dog, I asked the vet what she thought about us getting a Cocker Spaniel. The one thing I remember her saying was warning me about the Cocker’s ears. They are so adorable to look at and many of the traits remind me of the pug – “Foodies, Clingy and Funny”. Thanks for such an informative post.
Oh yes, those gorgeous ears of theirs, but oh the price we pay. I have been pretty fortunate with very few ear infections.
Really great article, Carol, and right on the mark! If only every prospective adopter/owner would take the time to research the breed to know what to expect. Thank you so much for your mention of Oldies but Goodies (OBG) Cocker Rescue too! We value our long relationship with you and all that the Wigglebutt Warriors have done for our pups over the years!.
You are so welcome – we love OBG!
I know from your precious posts how important grooming and healthcare are for cocker spaniels, so it is great to see a comprehensive post that allows people to get answers to the ‘What do I need to know before I get a Cocker Spaniel’.
My Sister-in-Law had two Springer Spaniels, who are like kids with ADD, active ACTIVE ACTIVE!!!!!!! They were eventually rehomed to a busy farm who loved them. They drove her crazy and with a growing family they did not get the attention they needed,
Ha ADD… I am glad they got the home to run around and get that attention. Spaniels tend to be excitable 😉
A truly great and informative post, Carol! This article is the one stop, has it location for people interested in the breed – and you’ve pointed out great resources to dig further so that they can make an informed decision!
I appreciate you saying that!
Ruby is a mix – we think mostly poodle and yorkie, but possibly a little cocker, too.
I can see the Cocker in her for sure.
I only rescue so have never thought about what breed would be good for me
Rescue or purebred from reputable breeder: All dogs need homes.
I didn’t know Cockers had such intensive grooming needs. Mr. N has a drop coat so he is similarly high maintenance!
Oh yes, lots of work in that Cocker coat. I told Dexter I felt like I was mowing the lawn BOL.
I’ve always thought Cocker Spaniels are very cute, This is a very thorough introduction to Cocker Spaniels, and I hope it will help a lot of people decide if a Cocker is a good breed for them. I think you did a great job grooming Dexter!
Thanks so much, Beth. Like most dogs, they have their nuances and special needs, but they are a fantastic breed for the right person. I appreciate the kind words on Dexter and his grooming: We are a work in progress.
Very interesting read. We recently found some paperwork indicating that Jack is a ‘cockapoo.’ We see the physical resemblance to both breeds. Reading this makes a lot of sense. He is turning into a Velcro dog and we did wonder where some of the markings came from.
Those faces are precious. Our neighbor has three Cocker Spaniels. So interesting learning about the breed
Lily & Edward
Because we fly – and fly so much – they are just a tad on the big side. But I do love them. Such adorable faces. mind you the only dog I was ever scared of as a child was this terrifying cocker next door. I was 6 … and that dog was surprisingly mean! LOL there is always one bad apple somewhere? or bad owners…? who knows.
Hi! Kelly is part cocker spaniel (and part long haired dachshund) and almost all of what you wrote is true for her. She is sweet, smart, loving and also very independent and strong willed. She will be 16 next month. She is doing okay but has Cushings Disease and CCD.
We had a Cocker Spaniel when I was a child. Her name was Fussy and she would sleep on top of her dog house like Snoopy. In the 60s, our dogs tended to stay outside. If I had one now, it would be indoors with me
My sister turned me on to your blog. I have had “Cocker Spaniel Fever” for decades, ever since my aunt gave my family a cocker when I was 8 years old. My current cocker is a 14.5 year old parti-color female named Taffy. She has many excellent qualities but unfortunately became a fear biter. I learned to managed this, and she has mellowed a lot in the last 2 years. She is extremely loyal to her family and is an “eternal puppy at heart”. You are right, life with Taffy is never boring. Many of my laughs during the day are because of her.
My daughter says I should get a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel for my next dog. I thought a lot about it for a year but I had to be honest with myself – if you are a certain kind of person, once you’ve had a cocker in your life, no other dog is right for you.
Welcome to the Fidose family, Karen. We love dogs but Cockers have stolen our hearts. My last Cocker was a fear biter, too. Many warm hugs and thanks for being here!
Your blog has changed my mind about Cocker Spaniels, I have always been a German Shepherd person, but now I have to look at a smaller breed and Cockers are now on my list.
Great article Carol. Good job describing our wonderful favorite breed. You may want to add something about disc disease too! With Cockers being the #2 dog most common for IVDD (behind Dachshunds), it’s important people considering a Cocker know what to look for. This one was a surprise to me when my dog ruptured a disc in 2010 and 2012, and I thought I knew all of the Cocker genetic tendencies.
In spite of their health issues, I wouldn’t trade the Cocker breed for anything! I can’t imagine having any other breed (other than another type of Sporting Dog maybe). Love your blog as always!
Thank you for your article was a great read They are a great breed for sure, love them. We just had to put ours down after 18 wonderful years with him.
I am so incredibly sorry for your loss, Phil. That is the one flaw our beloved dogs have: Their short flicker with us.
Cocker Spaniel named Lady. Lady is from LADY AND THE TRAMP!
Thank you for post. I grew up with 2 cockers. As an adult, I have had many cockers. I bought from reputable breeders & I rescued many from puppy mills. I love most dogs but I can’t imagine living without cockers. They are wigglebutts that wrap around one’s heart.
My pleasure – and you are so right that wigglebutts wrap around the heart.
Hello…I loved your article. I had my first cocker in 2008 from a breeder. Someone bought him prior to us but returned him.. Before we bought him we took our other dog a spaniel retriever mix to make sure they were compatible. They hit it off. They were inseprable. My family called him my velcro dog…lol. He was terrified of men especially my son in law. We figured the people before us must have resembled him. We loved him thru it and he lightened up EXCEPT my son in law. His name was Buddy because he was my lil buddy. I went thru a very unexpected divorce and Buddy was all i had. I loved him more than myself at times. In 2018 he got very sick very fast. I spent hundreds of dollars in vet bills. He had a growth the size of a sm cantalope attached to his liver. I have ALWAYS kept up on shots and tags so this grew in less than a year. I lost my best friend at that time. I would love to foster cockers. I am a foster now but the breeds very. Im new to this but it majes me feel worth while to the dogs. I had to put my other dog down 3 weeks ago. She was 17. My Buddy was 10. KUTOS TO YOU ALL !!!!