Cocker Spaniel care guide
The Cocker Spaniel's wagging stub and soulful eyes earned it the nickname 'merry Cocker'. A gentle, sensitive bird-dog at heart, it thrives on soft-handed training and family inclusion, and wilts under harshness or isolation.
Feeding
Cockers gain weight easily; measure meals and keep treats small. Some lines have sensitive skin that benefits from omega-rich diets.
Exercise
An hour daily of walks and retrieving games; their hunting nose loves scent-based play.
Grooming
High-maintenance: the silky, feathered coat needs brushing every other day and professional grooming every 6 weeks. Clean ears weekly — those glorious ears trap moisture.
Common health issues
- Chronic ear infections — the breed's classic problem
- Progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts
- Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
- Hip dysplasia
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Frequently asked questions
American vs English Cocker — what's the difference?
The American is smaller with a more domed head and fuller coat; the English is slightly larger with a more moderate coat. Temperaments are similar: gentle and merry.
How do I prevent ear infections?
Weekly ear cleaning, thorough drying after swims or baths, and keeping ear hair trimmed for airflow. Recurring infections deserve an allergy workup.
Related breed guides
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