The Ultimutt Cocker Spaniel Handbook

Originating in Spain, their name is derived from the word “cocker” meaning “woodcock”, a game bird that the dogs were bred to hunt. Their origins can be traced back as far as the 14th century, but it was in the 19th century that Spaniels became more clearly defined, having previously all been grouped under the same category. 

Primarily, there are two types of Spaniel: English and American. The former is an older breed, mainly used for hunting in the UK. Their slightly smaller American counterpart was bred for companionship and show purposes.

Cocker Spaniels are known for their soulful eyes and luxurious, silk coats. These coats can be in various colours, including black, liver, red, golden or combinations such as black and white. They’re highly intelligent and trainable, and have transitioned seamlessly into family life due to their social and affectionate nature. Due to these characteristics, they require mental stimulation and enjoy learning.

Cocker Spaniels are generally healthy dogs, but like all pooches they can be prone to some genetic and health conditions. Cocker Spaniels have very long, silky ears. This can make them more prone to ear infections and therefore regular grooming is advisable to keep their coats and ears in check.
 
Hip dysplasia can also affect this breed, a genetic condition whereby the hip joint doesn’t develop properly which causes pain and eventual arthritis. Maintaining a health weight and if needed, providing supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin, can help to alleviate symptoms should this condition affect your pup.

Cocker Spaniels have plenty of energy and it’s important that this drive for exercise is satisfied. They are curious dogs, and setting parameters from a young age on your dog walks will encourage good behaviour as they grow up. As a breed, they need about 1 to 2 hours of exercise per day. They love to run, so letting them exhaust themselves off the lead in a safe environment is recommended.

Whilst Cocker Spaniels are known for their long, silky coats, maintaining this does require some attention (and will prevent health conditions flaring up). Brushing their coats daily, or every other day, will prevent their coat matting. A slicker brush or pin brush to remove the tangles is advised. Go section by section, and work from the roots outwards to avoid damaging the hair. 

On top of this, a full bath will help keep your Cocker Spaniel clean. Don’t bath any more than every 4-6 weeks to avoid drying out their skin - and always use a dog-specific shampoo. Obviously owners vary as to how ‘hands-on’ they want to be with their pooches maintenance, but cleaning their ears weekly will help stave away infections (those long, floppy ears catch a lot of moisture, increasing the risk of infection).

Like all dogs, a healthy diet that is packed with nutrition will benefit your pup. The correct diet will help maintain a healthy weight, and in turn this will reduce the chance that your dog develops any common health issues that Cocker Spaniels can be susceptible to, like arthritis and hip dysplasia. 

Food that prevents inflammation is also recommended, as this will reduce the chance of allergies causing itchy skin and ear infections. Each dog is different but processed foods, grains, dairy, sugar and high-fat foods are all likely to cause inflammation.