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While Cocker Spaniels were once bred to be hunting dogs, nowadays they find themselves in the category of family dog. Their small size, energetic demeanor and relatively low maintenance requirements have made this breed a popular choice for pets. Because Cocker Spaniels have a long lifespan (12-15 years), you should read the steps below to ensure that you give your Cocker Spaniel the proper care during his long life.

Step 1: The eyes are the window: Cocker Spaniels have adorable eyes that always seem to reel their owners in. Unfortunately, allergies can sometimes cause mucus to build up in the corners of their eyes and owners need to be on the lookout for this. Routine cleaning of the eyes will help maintain eye health. Owners simply need to clean the eye area with a soft cloth moistened with warm water. This breed has been known to be susceptible to cataracts so owners should look for any signs of cloudiness in the eye. The breed has also been plagued with glaucoma, and in poor breeding lines, Progressive Retinal Atrophy. Cocker owners should remain vigilant about their dog’s eye health by taking note of any signs or symptoms of discomfort.

Step 2: Listen up: Those long and floppy ears add to the endearing personality of a cocker, but they can also add up to problems for a Cocker if not properly cared for. The hair in and around the ears should be trimmed frequently to avoid the possibility of irritation and infection. Ears should be cleansed frequently, including whenever the Cocker has been running through fields or brush. Finally, Cocker owners should look for behaviors such as the dog shaking his head back and forth or rubbing his head on the ground; these are typically signs of an irritation or infection.

Step 3: Exercise his rights: Your Cocker Spaniel has the right to remain trim and fit. In order to stay within the recommended weight guidelines of approximately 25-35 pounds, your Cocker should be given the opportunity to exercise daily and should be fed a healthy diet.

Step 4: The agony of the feet: A Cocker owner should plan to pay special attention to the pads of the Cocker’s feet. Because of all the hair that grows there, a Cocker is known to suffer from the tight balls of matted hair that can develop and cause pain between the toes. The best solution is for the owner to regularly trim the hair around the pads.

Step 5: Speaking of hair: A Cocker’s hair tends to grow rapidly and can become matted all over his body. His long locks can also get caught in brush as he frolics and plays. Plan to have your Cocker trimmed or shaved regularly in order to avoid painful brushing later. If you wish to keep your Cocker’s hair long, plan to brush it out daily to avoid tangles.
Step 6: More grooming advice: Because Cockers tend to have skin allergies, owners and groomers should take care to bathe them using a natural, gentle shampoo product.

Step 7: The Cocker’s social needs: A Cocker should be socialized among pets and children as soon as the dog owner feels comfortable. Cockers can become attached to his owner and may act timid or anxious around other people. In order to minimize this, expose him to people and/or obedience training early on.  Like many breeds, the Cocker does not like to be left home alone for long periods of time and may bark or get into mischief if left alone for too long.

Overall, the effort it takes to give the proper care to your Cocker Spaniel is worth the loyalty and companionship you’ll get in return from him. By paying special attention to the steps mentioned above, you will be giving your Cocker the opportunity to live a long and healthy life.

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