Cocker Spaniel (English)

1. Introduction

A Cocker Spaniel is a dog of a breed with long ears, a silky coat, and a drooping expression. This breed of dog belongs to a larger group of spaniels, which includes the American Cocker Spaniel and English Cocker Spaniel. A Cocker Spaniel is a great pet and companion dog that is friendly, gentle, playful, and most importantly, affectionate. To raise a Cocker Spaniel dog, a lot of care must be provided to it so that it would develop properly and grow with good characteristics.

Most dog owners find it hard to take care of their pets, be it in the form of pampering or even basic needs. A breed of dog that requires extensive care is the Cocker Spaniel. Despite the high maintenance needed to raise a Cocker Spaniel, many would still prefer this breed of dog due to its good temperament, affectionate nature, playful movements, and gentle disposition. With this guide, a person will ace very well how to care for and raise a Cocker Spaniel dog, be it an American Cocker Spaniel or an English Cocker Spaniel.

2. History and Origins

The Cocker Spaniel is known to be one of the many ancient breeds of dogs that existed even before the time when the Romans invaded Britain. Like any other breed of dogs, the Cocker Spaniels were used for hunting purposes such as game birds like woodcocks. In such events, dogs are used to flush birds out of the bush so that they could be shot. The larger breed of spaniels would do this job. Meanwhile, the smaller breed of spaniels like the Cocker Spaniel happens to do the same job for smaller birds such as the woodcocks. Hence, the term "cocker" arose from its ability to flush woodcocks.

The breed of Cocker Spaniel continued to flourish and became popular throughout England. In the late 1860s and 70s, a decision was made to separate the smaller spaniel breed from the larger one. This was the time when the Cocker Spaniel breed was classified into its own breed. In 1892, the first Cocker Spaniel Club was established in England. Because of the breed's fondness for hunting and gentleness, this breed of dog became popular in the United States in the late 19th century. It became separately recognized as an English Cocker and an American Cocker in 1946 by the American Kennel Club. Cocker Spaniels are still widely spread and loved as companion dogs until the present time.

3. Breed Characteristics

The American Cocker Spaniel breed height usually reaches up to 14.5 to 15.5 inches at the shoulder and weighs about 24 to 28 pounds. They have a compact body, with a distinct dome-shaped head and a long, wide muzzle. This breed of Cocker comes with attractive rounded eyes varying in color from brown to hazel. Cocker Spaniels have long and feathered ears with smooth and silky coats. They can be of different colors in either solid, patched, or roaned. Color ranges from black, tan, or brown.

The English Cocker Spaniel breed height usually reaches 15.5 to 16 inches at the shoulder and weighs about 28 to 34 pounds. They have a well-proportioned, long-bodied, and squarely built frame. This breed of Cocker also comes with rounded eyes with either a dark brown or hazel color. They have beautiful long feathered ears with a distinctly squared muzzle. Cocker Spaniels have wavy coats that may be of any color with solid or hence markings. Color ranges from black, liver, red, golden, orange, and champagne.

3.1 History and Origins

The Cocker Spaniels (English) breed of dog has been a beloved companion for generations, known for its playful and affectionate demeanor. The breed is characterized by its long, flowing ears, soft, silky coat, and expressive face. It typically stands between 13 and 16 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 20 and 30 pounds. Cocker Spaniels (English) come in a range of colors, including black, liver, red, and various combinations of these colors with white. They have a strong, athletic build and are known for their boundless energy.

Cocker Spaniels (English) are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train. They thrive on human companionship and enjoy being included in family activities. However, they can be sensitive and may become anxious if left alone for long periods of time. The breed is known for its loyalty and devotion to its family, making it an excellent choice for families with children. Cocker Spaniels (English) require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. They enjoy walks, playtime in the backyard, and swimming.

The Cocker Spaniels (English) breed is prone to certain health issues, including ear infections, hip dysplasia, and eye problems. Regular veterinary check-ups, grooming, and proper care can help prevent these issues and keep the dog healthy. Cocker Spaniels (English) can live for 12 to 15 years. As a breed, Cocker Spaniels (English) have been cherished for generations. They are often called "the merry cocker" because of their joyful disposition. With proper care and attention, a Cocker Spaniels (English) can bring years of love and happiness to any home.

3.2. Breed Characteristics

The Cocker Spaniel (English) is a breed of gun dog developed in the United Kingdom to retrieve game from water and thick undergrowth. Cocker Spaniels' surname denotes the type of game they were originally bred to hunt, woodcocks, which are a type of wading bird. The breed is the smallest member of the sporting group recognized by the American Kennel Club, and a Cocker Spaniel is one of several types of dog classified as a spaniel. The Cocker Spaniel (English) is also recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) and other kennel clubs under alternate spellings. Cocker Spaniels typically weigh between 13.6 to 27 kg (30 to 60 lb) and stand 38 to 51 cm (15 to 20 in) tall.

The distinctive features of the dog include a round head, long ears, and a slender muzzle, which gives the breed an inquisitive expression. In competition, Cocker Spaniels are stated to come in seven acceptable coat colors: black, liver, lemon, red, gold, roan, or a combination of two colors together with white. Although generally well-mannered, socialized Cocker Spaniels being friendly, gentle, and devoted to their owners, and training a Cocker Spaniel can be a rewarding experience, obedience can decrease if the dog does not see its owner as pack leader. Being a gun dog breed, Cocker Spaniels require daily exercise.

The Cocker Spaniel has a long history. In 12th century England, the first breeds of spaniels were thought to have originated, and these early spaniels were used to flush songbirds for gentlemen to catch as a pastime. In the Lammermuir Hills, few Cocker Spaniels were used to go underground after woodcocks from Leyburn and Linton Woods. In the mid-18th century, spaniels were divided into Land Spaniels and Water Spaniels, and breeds such as Springers, Cockers, and Springing Cockers were developed from the Land Spaniels.

Spaniels were very popular at the time, and dog shows began to emerge to promote the purity and excellence of the breeds. The first recorded Cocker Spaniel club, called the Cocker Spaniel Club, was established in 1892, and Kennel Club (United Kingdom) recognition followed a year later. The popularity of the breed soared throughout the UK and the United States, and after the death of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, his Cocker Spaniel, Fala, was memorialized by the U.S. Congress by virtue of a bronze statue in Washington, D.C.

4. Physical Attributes of Cocker Spaniels

Cocker Spaniels, cherished as one of the most popular dog breeds, possess a set of unique physical attributes that distinguish them from other breeds. Their compact and sturdy build contributes to their endearing and playful demeanor. A comprehensive understanding of these physical characteristics is crucial not only for breed fanciers but also for prospective owners considering sharing their lives with these charming companions.

Size and Weight: Cocker Spaniels are categorized into two varieties: American and English. While both types exhibit similar sizes, the American Cocker Spaniel is notably smaller than the English variety. Adult American Cocker Spaniels typically stand 14.5 to 15.5 inches (36.8 to 39.3 cm) at the shoulders, while the English Cocker Spaniel is larger, measuring 15 to 17 inches (38.1 to 43.2 cm). Weights also differ, with American Cockers ranging from 20 to 30 pounds (9 to 13.6 kg), while English Cockers weigh 30 to 40 pounds (13.6 to 18.1 kg).

Coat Types and Colors: Cocker Spaniels are well-known for their silky, flowing, lush coats. Their dense fur, cascading down their bodies and adorning their ears and tails, is easily recognized. This breed possesses a soft formulation and, as such, is often considered a non-shedding dog. However, while they shed very little hair, they do experience fall-outs in other forms. Additionally, Cockers are highly regarded for their various colors and markings. Their coats may come in different patterns, including solid, roan, and parti-color, along with various markings such as tan, sable, and brindle.

4.1. Size and Weight

Cocker Spaniels are small to medium-sized dogs with distinct features that set them apart from other breeds. The English Cocker Spaniel is typically larger than the American Cocker Spaniel, however, both share similar characteristics. On average, the male English Cocker Spaniel stands around 16 to 17 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 28 to 34 pounds, and the female stands around 15 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 24 to 30 pounds. The difference in weight and height between males and females is noticeable, with males being about 1-2 inches taller and 4-6 pounds heavier. This, in turn, often leads to differences in build and appearance. Males tend to have larger heads, necks, and bodies, while females are usually more slender and elegant. Though this is a natural variation between the genders, both males and females of the breed are known for stunning beauty and charm.

The conformation aspect of either gender generally complies with the breed standard. The breed is generally respected for its athletic and active build. The legs and back are straight and strong for efficiency in motion whether walking, running, or jumping. Front legs are erect; hind legs are well muscled. Cheek muscles are also well developed for proper jaw structure and teeth alignment. The long ears are set low and covered with silky hair contrasting with the coat. The English Cocker Spaniel's hair is softer than that of the American and falls straighter to the side, thus giving a different overall appearance. The tail should be docked and about 5–7 inches in length, extending just slightly below the hocks but should not be held down. The expression of the breed is gentle, soft, and kind, with large eyes being the most impressive feature of the face.

Most Cocker Spaniels gain a few pounds with age but maintaining a healthy weight, especially when older, is necessary. Obesity is dangerous for any breed and breed standards should be kept in mind. Some signs of obesity include layers of fat covering ribs and a thick neck. A healthy Cocker Spaniel also eats about 1 ½–2 cups of quality dog food a day spread over two meals. A hungry Cocker Spaniel is a discontent and stressed dog. Commonly, some unknowledgeable people excessively feed their dogs, which seems oftentimes like an act of kindness but therefore causing their discomfort and health impairments. Nonetheless, a Cocker swallowing a fatty cat or rummaging in trash cans is not a handsome sight.

5. Coat Types and Colors

Cocker Spaniels are known for their beautiful and distinctive coats. The coat of these dogs is one of their most defining features, and there are various types and colors that are recognized by different breed organizations.

In general, American and English Cocker Spaniels can come in the same colors and patterns, but there are distinct differences in their coats. American Cocker Spaniels have a thick, long coat that is bushy and slightly wavy, while English Cocker Spaniels' coat is more straight and flat. Additionally, the English Cocker Spaniel is longer than the American Cocker Spaniel and has a longer muzzle.

When it comes to colors, Cocker Spaniels can come in different shades. The first is solid, which means they are one color without any patterns or combinations. The second is patterns that consist of two or more colors, either with spots or patches of a color. Combinations can be black/white, liver/white, blue roan, or lemon/white.

The breed's coat colors are recognized by the AKC, or American Kennel Club. For American Cocker Spaniels, the recognized colors are black, liver, red, black and tan, liver and tan, golden, roan, and parti-color. For English Cocker Spaniels, the recognized colors are black, liver, red, blue roan, liver roan, orange roan, black and tan, liver and tan, and blue roan with tan. The spots or markings do not require a certain amount for them to be acknowledged.

6. Temperament and Behavior

Cocker Spaniels tend to be affectionate, gentle, and moderate in temperament. They can be excitable and boisterous at times, with an innate curiosity, but this breed generally behaves well with children. The Cocker Spaniel is an adaptable breed. This means they can live in both busy homes with children and designs, as well as excitable families who wish to engage in outdoor hobbies. While this breed tends to adapt easily to new situations, a major factor in their awareness of change and adjustment to new places is their socialization.

Although their unwavering loyalty to their owners means they get overly attached, the Cocker Spaniel is known to be affectionate and gentle with children. They feel at their best when near people and love to play, cuddle, and receive consistent affection. In accepting this loyalty, it is important that an owner reciprocates, dedicating time and care to their Cocker Spaniel to avoid developing difficult behavioral traits. A Cocker Spaniel that feels neglected may avoid playing and become withdrawn, grumpy or aggressive due to hormonal imbalance, or develop distress that can have health consequences, such as nervous habits or excessive barking.

Cocker Spaniels tend to be independent and stubborn. They may refuse to obey orders or commands or attempt to act outside the accepted bounds of behavior, acting out when feeling neglected. They are prone to the "Diva Syndrome" when they believe they rule the world and will bark excessively, chew furniture and shoes, and refuse to follow household rules. This behavior can be problematic if the owner does not have experience managing a strong-willed dog. Giving a Cocker Spaniel too much freedom, or being inconsistent with behavioral rules can consequently lead to subservience issues in the Cocker Spaniel.

To counter negative temperamental traits in Cocker Spaniels, focused training and socialization are necessary. Early socialization is important to prevent over-excited behavior when seeing other dogs and to avoid behavioral issues like fear or aggression towards other dogs, people, or possessions. At 7 to 9 weeks, owners should introduce them to new situations, people, and experiences, ensuring these are positive, and yielding rewards. Care should be shown when introducing them to new dogs, where they should be introduced slowly. Socialization at this age means they will grow up accustomed to the new situations or experiences.

Cocker Spaniels are energetic dogs and require regular exercise. As a guide, Cocker Spaniels need at least one hour of activity a day. If they do not receive regular stimulation and physical exercise, they will quickly become bored. Cocker Spaniels will express boredom with hyperactivity and excitement, doing such things as chewing, barking, or digging to keep themselves entertained. Aside from seeming aggressive, this behavior is harmful as there is a potential risk of injury from chewing furniture.

6.1. Personality Traits

Cocker Spaniels are well-known for their playful, energetic, and affectionate personality traits. These dogs make great companions for families with children, as they are gentle, loving, and always up for playtime. The Cocker Spaniel is one of the most playful breeds in America, constantly displaying their energy and enthusiasm for life. However, owners must be prepared for the high level of energy that comes with this breed.

In addition to being playful, Cocker Spaniels are also intelligent dogs. They can learn commands and tricks quickly, making training easy. However, be sure to use positive reinforcement with this breed, as harsh methods can lead to behavioral issues and anxiety. Cocker Spaniels also do not respond well to punishment and instead require a more lenient approach.

Cocker Spaniels are also affectionate, forming strong bonds with their families. They love to cuddle, nap with their owners, and shower them with kisses. However, be prepared for jealousy, as these dogs will demand attention if they feel ignored. Cocker Spaniels are also social dogs, becoming anxious when left home alone for long periods. These dogs prefer to spend time with their families and do not enjoy being left at home or in a kennel for extended periods of time.

Apart from this, Cocker Spaniels are good watchdogs, protective of their families and alerting them of any intrusions. The dogs become friendly with neighbors, but are wary of strangers. Cocker Spaniels bark a lot, making training essential to control excessive barking.

7. Training and Socialization

Training and socialization are critical aspects of bringing a Cocker Spaniel family member into the home. Early and ongoing training ensures a well-mannered dog that is enjoyable and safe in any environment. Fortunately, Cocker Spaniels have a strong desire to please and are quick learners. This breed is also known for its eagerness to take part in any family activity, be it young children playing, adults cooking, or someone taking a shower. This side of their personality is also often displayed by their attention-seeking antics.

Like any breed, Spaniels need early training and proper reinforcement for desirable behavior. Positive reinforcement works well with this breed, especially when paired with food treats. Positive reinforcement builds trust and a bond for both the dog and the owner/family and shows the dog that good behavior is rewarded. Negative reinforcement causes fear and distrust of the owner, making future training more complicated and sometimes resulting in aggression. Along with the physical training of commands, Spaniels also need to be taught the limits of acceptable behavior. This includes being gentle with children, not barking at other dogs, sitting on the floor instead of people's laps, and walking with a heeler's position on a leash. A stubborn dog will continue undesired behavior until it is consistently stopped. Some expect high-energy dogs to calm down with age or leave a pup to entertain itself, expecting them to learn what is acceptable on their own. This often leads to undesirable behavior getting worse with age. In addition to rules, boundaries, and limits, need to be in place, along with consistency and repetition. A Spaniel puppy or dog left to entertain itself within the house will take on the job seriously and turn table legs into chew toys, blinds into climbing equipment, and slippers into soft toys.

Socialization is equally as important as training. The temperamental stability of a Cocker Spaniel is largely dependent on socialization to everyday activities, people, and dogs at a young age. 1-2 visits to the veterinarian for vaccinations every month until a pup is four months old provides an excellent opportunity to socialize classically fearful experiences and people. Adult dogs often react out of fear and chomp when picked up and poked. With a new pup, sitting in the examination room with many different people and dogs while exposure to as many people, places, and activities is introduced to the dog while it is confident and curious lays the groundwork for a calm and confident adult. Puppies should enter homes with visits planned to parks, shopping areas, and gatherings where children will be present before maturity and, if possible, puppy kindergarten classes. This is all in an effort to produce a well-mannered and friendly adult dog comfortable in every situation. There are periods of heightened sensitivity during this process, meaning attention to socialization must be increased.

8. Health and Wellness of Cocker Spaniels

The Cocker Spaniel, while undeniably charming and affectionate, is not without its potential health issues. Understanding the risks associated with this breed is paramount for responsible ownership. Cocker Spaniels are prone to ear infections due to their floppy ears, which prevent proper airflow and thus create a warm, moist environment that encourages the growth of bacteria and yeast. Regular ear cleaning is essential to mitigate this risk. Additionally, Cocker Spaniels may be susceptible to eye problems, such as cataracts and microphthalmia, which is the condition of having abnormally small eyes. Regular veterinary eye examinations are advised for early detection of potential issues. Lastly, hip dysplasia, a hereditary condition wherein the ball-and-socket joint of the hip grows abnormally, can affect this breed, leading to arthritis and pain. Cocker Spaniel hips should be evaluated at around 2 years of age.

To ensure a long and fulfilling life for Cocker Spaniels, proper exercise and nutrition must be prioritized. Cocker Spaniels require daily exercise, which may involve walks, runs, swimming, or playing fetch, among other engaging activities. Not only do these activities fulfill the energetic nature of this breed, but they also stave off boredom and subsequent destructive behaviors around the home. Grooming also serves a dual purpose of providing exercise and bonding time with owners. While a 30-minute walk every day is the bare minimum, Cocker Spaniels can also enjoy up to two hours of exercise a day, especially as puppies and young adults.

Nutrition is equally important for keeping Cocker Spaniels healthy. Choosing high-quality dog food will greatly benefit this breed. Ingredients should include fresh meat, vegetables, and grains. However, avoid brands with excessive fillers, which can upset a Cocker Spaniel’s stomach. During the first 12 months, puppies should eat puppy food to ensure they gain enough nutrients to grow strong and healthy. A Cocker Spaniel should be given an adequate quantity of food to maintain a healthy weight. Overweight dogs are at a greater risk for developing diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. Owners are encouraged to consult their vet to decide the exact amount of food their Cocker Spaniel should receive. To determine a dog’s perfect weight, most dog food bags indicate the “ideal weight” for that particular product.

8.1.Common Health Issues

Cocker Spaniels, characterized by their adorable droopy ears and vibrant personalities, are cherished family pets and dedicated hunting companions. Nonetheless, these captivating canines are vulnerable to several health complications, many of which can be effectively prevented or managed with timely attention. Prospective pet owners should familiarize themselves with these common afflictions when contemplating purchasing an adorable puppy from a reputable breeder, rescue, or animal shelter.

In owning a dog, the most significant investment is typically not the initial purchase price. Instead, the greatest expense arises when the pet experiences injuries or illness. Consequently, selecting a breed that is free from genetically-based health issues and providing high-quality veterinary care is paramount.

Ear Infections: Cocker Spaniels have long, floppy ears that create a dark, humid environment ideal for yeast and bacteria growth. Regular ear cleaning with veterinarian-recommended solutions can prevent chronic infections. When cleaning ears, follow the veterinarian's instructions for frequency and use only products compatible with a Cocker's particular ear health needs.

Allergies: Allergies are prevalent in Cocker Spaniels, causing itching, skin infections, and ear infections, primarily due to food, fleas, or environmental allergens such as pollen. Severe cases may necessitate immunotherapy injections (desensitization) or novel in-house food for testing. Several medications can soothe itchy skin. Treatments for skin infections may include antibiotics, topical applications, and medicated shampoo.

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Hip Dysplasia involves improper formation of the hip joint, causing pain, lameness, and inflammation. Elbow Dysplasia is a condition involving abnormal bone formation at the elbow joint, resulting in pain and lameness. Both conditions are worsened by excessive weight and activity, particularly during puppy growth. Breeders are expected to screen for the presence of these conditions, and responsible ownership includes maintaining an appropriate weight and careful exercise during growth. Medications can prevent discomfort in affected adult dogs, but severe cases may necessitate surgical intervention.

Eye Problems: Affected breeds are prone to cataracts, entropion (eyelids fold in and irritate the eye), and cherry eye (gland prolapse). These conditions can be addressed if detected by a veterinarian.

Separation Anxiety: Cocker Spaniels are companion dogs and require social contact. They are prone to separation anxiety, which can be treated with behavior modification and anti-anxiety drugs.

9. Exercise and Nutrition

Regular exercise is essential for the physical and mental well-being of Cocker Spaniels. These dogs are energetic and playful, and they enjoy good daily exercise. Adult Cockers require at least an hour of exercise a day, preferably split into two sessions. To cater for their strong hunting instinct, walks should include sniffing around. They also enjoy swimming. Cockers love playing sports such as agility, flyball, and obedience. This helps develop a good bond between dog and owner. An untrained Cocker can be a challenging pet, leading to unwanted behaviors if they do not have enough exercise. They are usually quiet at home but can bark excessively if bored.

Nutritionally, a Cocker Spaniel’s food should contain three basic elements: Protein, Starch, and Fats. Dry food, or kibbles, is the most commonly used pet food. There are many high-quality brands available. The right amount to feed depends on several factors, including the dog's age, size (is it a Mini, Standard or Max), health (sick or well), activity level (active or couch potato), and anything else that needs to be considered. A Cocker Spaniel should be fed twice a day - morning and evening - and having a routine helps to avoid confusion. As a rule of thumb, do not feed below the likely requirements listed on the food label, as the dog will not thrive. Ideally, use the guidelines as a starting point and adjust as necessary, either up or down. Cod liver oil is commonly added to a Cocker Spaniel’s diet. This 'superfood' is full of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that help keep a dog's coat shiny and reduce shedding.

10. Grooming and Maintenance

Taking care of pets is a very important task. Regular grooming is essential for the healthy coat of the Cocker Spaniel. If the Cocker Spaniel's coat is not brushed regularly, the coat will get matted. To avoid this, comb the dog's coat at least a few times a week. A pin brush, wide tooth comb, and comb must be used for brushing. While brushing, remove all tangles and mats. After brushing, separate the strands of hair around the ears and the throat with a comb. Also, brush the hairs around the muzzle and under the chin and discard any flying hairs. Brush the coat thoroughly and wash it with shampoo every one or two months to ensure a clean look. In addition to bathing, the dog should also be taken for walks to ensure that the coat remains clean. After a bath, the Cocker Spaniel must be dried properly to ensure that there are no wet patches in the coat. Usually, the hair dries out within a day. If there is a possibility of the coat getting matted in busy areas, it is best to keep the coat clipped.

The Cocker Spaniel's long, droopy ears also need special care. The ears must be checked every week to see if there are any signs of dirt or wax. During a clean-up, the ear canals must be gently taken up; cotton balls soaked in special ear cleaning solutions can be used for the task. Square cotton pads can also be used for clean-up purposes. Care must be taken to ensure that no liquid gets inside the ear canal. After cleaning the ear canals, use cotton balls to clean the edges of the ears. While cleaning the ears, check for insects and signs of pain. If any such signs are noted, take the dog to a veterinarian. The eyes should also be checked for dirt every week.

In addition, the Cocker Spaniel's teeth must also be cleaned regularly. Gums can turn tacky and teeth can develop tartar and hard mineral deposits if teeth are not brushed regularly. While brushing the teeth, a child's toothbrush can be used to clean the outer surfaces of the back teeth, top jaw, and incisors. After brushing the back teeth, the tongue must be lifted up to clean the teeth on the other side. Toothpaste must be expert-recommended dental paste that does not foam.

10.1. Brushing and Bathing

The Cocker Spaniel breed is known for its long, feathered coat that requires care to maintain its beauty, prevent matting of fur, and keep the skin healthy. Regular brushing, particularly a minimum of three brushes a week, is needed using either a slicker brush or a wire comb. More frequent brushing is recommended when the Cocker has been swimming or after a muddy walk. Regular grooming also offers the chance to inspect the coat for any foreign material or skin issues.

Bathing is another important component of grooming care for a Cocker Spaniel. Bathing should occur when the coat needs it or at least every four months, using a special shampoo for dogs with sensitive skin. Rinsing is equally as important as shampooing to avoid problems with the skin. It should be ensured that soap that may irritate the dog's skin is properly rinsed. Dominant or brave dogs should be bathed on a lead attached to a collar rather than using a slip collar to avoid sudden movements from putting a strain on the neck when slippery. After the bath, coat conditioner or oil can be applied to maintain texture and sheen. Afterward, the dog should be thoroughly dried with a towel before using an air force drier held five to six inches away to avoid burning the skin. If a hairdryer is used, it should have a low setting and the dog should be dried in sections to ensure it is not burnt.

11. Ear and Dental Care

Despite their spaniel legacy, the English Cocker Spaniel is not known for excessive ear problems if proper care is taken of them. The breed's ear hair doesn't mat easily and has less chance of damage from swimming, unlike the Water Spaniel and Irish Water Spaniel. Nonetheless, it is important to check the inside of the ears and keep them groomed. Weekly brushing and combing of the ears is usually sufficient. It's best to acclimate them to this early on, as an adult dog is far less likely to comply than a puppy. Use a slicker brush or a comb with long teeth, and start by grooming the hair with fingers or a large-tooth comb. Comb the long hair around the ear and along the flap, pulling the comb straight out at the ear margin. Do not use a coarse comb, as this might hurt the skin under the hair. Use scissors to nip off hair that can be caught and pulled with the comb.

It is advisable to keep the inner ear free of hair, as trapped moisture might turn the ear into a warm damp place for mites and germs. Show dogs often have all the ear hair plucked out; for pets, only the first inch is plucked at home. Have the rest of the hair plucked by a professional groomer if the owner finds it too difficult. Clean the ears with cotton wool and a suitable ear cleaning agent every week, and have them checked when the dog is bathing. If swimming, clean them after each swim and dry properly. If undesired dirt, wax, and smell keep returning, the use of a medicated ear cleaner or mineral oil may be used. After the dog has been swimming, drop a few drops of mineral oil into the ear, massage, and let it be. Excess moisture will be absorbed into the oil.

Dental care is often neglected or thought unimportant; however, dental disease is a serious matter and is rather common in dogs. When the teeth are unclean, a thick scab of plaque builds upon the teeth, which in time goes off into roots and further into the gums. The mouth gets paranoid, unpleasant smelling, and sore. Dogs with dental diseases do often not eat and lose weight. This may also lead to other problems, as sulcus bacteria get into the blood circulation and damage kidneys and the heart. That is why mouth hygiene is important! There are both preventive and remedy measures for dental care. Preventive measures include regularly brushing the teeth, which is the best way to prevent plaque; providing the dog with raw bones or dried fish-skin products in moderation, as this physically cleans the teeth; and using special dry food or snacks against dental plaque (consult the vet if there are any questions). To harden bacteria in the plaque, tartar is formed; this is much harder to remove. Remedies include the scraping of the tartar by the vet, which includes a full anesthetic, and after the procedure, the teeth are polished.