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Cocker spaniels like all breeds of dogs go through stages of growth and development and the number of teeth that a Cocker has will vary according to his age.

Teeth appear – Weeks 2 to 4

A spaniel puppy’s teeth begin to appear from around 3 weeks of age.

While he is this young he will still be with his mother and the breeder, so for most owners this appearance of milk teeth will not be an issue as they will not yet own the dog.

The puppy’s teeth will begin to appear around the same time that his eyes open and he begins to wobble around while starting to walk.

Weeks 5 to 6 – Weaning

By this time your spaniel puppy will normally have all of his puppy or milk teeth.

Most dog breeds have 28 puppy teeth.

As his teeth begin to settle, the breeder will begin to introduce the puppy onto soft puppy foods, weaning him away from his mother.

Time spent with his mom will be reduced. Nursing puppies with sharp puppy teeth can be a painful experience for the mother.

Weeks 8 onwards – Leaving for a new home

From around week 8 onwards, most breeders have found or are in the process of finding new homes for their puppies.

As the puppy grows older he will begin to lose his first teeth and the new owner will often find little bits and pieces of puppy teeth on the floor.

The teething process is often painful for puppies, just as it is for a human baby, and you’ll find that the puppy will often chew things to try and help with the discomfort.

It is a good idea to get some tough teething toys for your puppy to chew on rather than have him chewing your shoes or furniture.

To help him with the discomfort you can take a small towel, wet it with clean water and tie it into a knot.

Put the towel into the freezer for an hour or so until it is frozen, and then give it to your puppy to play with. The fibrous nature will provide him with something good to chew and the cold will relieve the pain.

It’s also a good idea, when you get your new Cocker spaniel home, that you arrange a check up at the vet’s.

Your vet will check his teeth and gums and listen to his heart and breathing to make sure that he is fit and healthy.

Puppies will nip

One other thing that you will notice is that your puppy will probably nip. This is not a sign of aggression.

Just as we use our hands to explore, touch and feel, dogs and puppies use their mouths.

Your puppy is using his mouth as a way of exploring the world and he doesn’t know how hard he is allowed to grip things. He also has very sharp puppy teeth that can be painful.

All you need to do if your puppy gets a bit rough is to let him know that he is biting too hard.

Just say ‘ouch!’ or similar and discourage him from nipping.

It is important to be consistent and to discourage your puppy from touching humans with his teeth, for obvious reasons, we don’t want him to grow into an adult who has been allowed to bite.

6 months and onwards

By the time your puppy is 6 months old, he will have lost all of his puppy teeth and his adult teeth should all have grown in.

Most adult dogs have 42 teeth.

If you find that your puppy has any of his baby teeth left then you should speak to your vet and they will advise on the correct course of action if they feel that any is necessary.

How to keep a Cocker spaniel’s teeth healthy

Just like people, your spaniel’s teeth can get dirty, tartered and damaged if they are not cared for properly.

Unlike people, dogs, don’t use their tongues or claws to pick bits of food out from between their teeth and, if this is left, then it can cause plaque and bad breath.

I’ve found that Poodles tend to have the smelliest breath of them all – spaniels generally are okay but you need to keep an eye on things.

Poor dental hygiene in dogs can lead to the same consequences faced by humans who don’t care for the teeth.

The most obvious way to clean your spaniel’s teeth is with a toothbrush and doggy toothpaste ( don’t use human toothpaste on your dog’s teeth – it can really upset his tummy and make him unwell – you should get a paste that has been specifically produced for dogs ). 

You should use a soft toothbrush and gently work the toothpaste into your spaniel’s teeth. You’ll need to use one hand to hold your dog’s lips back while the other manipulates the brush across the teeth.

In addition to using a toothbrush, you can get specially designed chew toys that will satisfy your spaniel’s desire to chew and chomp while and, at the same time, they’ll clean his teeth.

Treats can help to keep your dog’s teeth healthy

There are also various edible treats that you can get :

Pedigree Dentastix are very good and you can find them here on Amazon these are designed to clean your dog’s teeth as he eats them.

Bones too can help to keep your dog’s teeth clean, the gnawing action of your dog helps to get rid of plaque and other dental debris – just make sure that you give him the right types of bones.

For more information about the importance of keeping your dog’s teeth clean and how to inspect and clean your spaniel’s teeth , watch the video below.

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We’ve been around spaniels for many years both with and without children and they are great, friendly and energetic dogs, ideal for family life and great around children.

They are one of the most popular dog breeds. They’re loyal, loving, and make great family pets.

But is a cocker spaniel the right breed for you and your family?

If you’re looking for a family-friendly breed, Cocker spaniels are a great choice. Cockers are known for their gentle dispositions and love of children. They make great playmates for kids and will quickly become a cherished member of your family.

Are Cocker spaniels good with children?

Yes, cocker spaniels are good with children.

They are patient, sweet-natured dogs that love to play.

They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them great family pets.

Cockers do require some exercise, so it’s important to make sure they get plenty of walks or runs.

But overall, they’re gentle, loving dogs that adore being around kids.

So if you’re looking for a dog that’s great with children, a Cocker spaniel is definitely a breed to consider.

Spaniels are good family dogs if looked after properly

Cockers are good family dogs that are very gentle and kind but they can also be very sensitive and do not like harsh treatment or environments.

If Cockers are treated harshly or unkindly, then they are likely to become defensive, protecting themselves by what is misunderstood as aggressive behaviour, biting, barking and other symptoms.

Often owners confuse this behaviour for aggression and it is due to them missing the signs that the dog has displayed.

Rough play can become too much for some puppies, who can quickly become tired or frightened and, at first the puppy will signal with growls or lip curls that he has had enough, or he may try to go somewhere else to get away.

If the roughness continues then the puppy could nip or bite, it’s his natural progression from a warning ( growl, lip curl, moving somewhere else) and, if that doesn’t work then he could bite as his warnings have been ignored.

This is not behaviour that is restricted to Cockers, all dog breeds behave like this – it’s just that as Cockers are very sensitive animals, they could be ‘pressured’ into this more quickly than another breed.

If you take the time to understand your dog and watch for the signals, but more importantly, treat him properly, then you will avoid and minimise any problems.

Many inexperienced owners mistake this type of behaviour as aggression and are unable to help the dog or deal with the problem.

It isn’t that the dog is aggressive, it’s that the owners are failing to understand the dog and the things that are upsetting the poor animal. The end result is often a dog that is wrongly labelled as aggressive.

The reason that I am sharing this information is to try and help you to understand that Cocker ownership is a two way process.

You need to work with your dog and learn about how he thinks, how he sees the world, because, to be sure, he sees it very differently from you.

What is a vacuum cleaner to you, is an upright monster with a long nose that makes horrible noises and smells – to a dog.

The ‘type’ of ‘aggression’ that we’ve outlined here, caused by being frightened, is often called Cocker Rage. 

This doing the Cocker serious discredit as biting, when frightened, is hardly rage, it’s a defence reaction.

It just shows that you need to learn as much about your dog as possible, through reading, talking to owners and, if you are not able or prepared to learn, then you should re-consider whether a Cocker, or a dog in general, is the right choice for your family.

How to help a puppy to be a good family dog

Bringing a puppy up is not a difficult job, provided you are willing to learn and work with your puppy, put a few ground rules in for family members, particularly children and be consistent, then you’ll be well on your way.

Use a good breeder

You should always do your homework to help you to find a good Cocker spaniel breeder. Speak to other owners, try to get a recommendation, if you do struggle then call and speak to breed societies to ask for their advice.

Responsible breeders will have puppies to improve the breed. They will not breed from animals that have behavioural or physical defects, and this is the type of breeder that you need to seek out.

A puppy that has been well bred has had the best start in life and will be with a breeder that has taken care of his needs as a youngster, to minimise the risks of future problems as he grows up.

See our article here about choosing a spaniel puppy.

Socialise the puppy

Just as with children, it is important for your puppy to experience as much of life as is safely possible when he is young.

Take him to different places as soon as it is safe to do so, let him meet different people, different animals, to experience different sounds, smells, sights.

Help him to enjoy and experience life and you’ll help him to grow into a well rounded, confident and calm adult dog which will, in turn, help him to be a responsible and affectionate family member.

Basic training is important

You may have no intention of working your Cocker spaniel or of entering any form of dog competitions, but this does not mean that you should skip basic training.

It is important to teach your dog some basic commands so that you can be confident that he will be well behaved and under control when you take him out.

Basic spaniel training is not difficult and you’ll find some guidance in this training article that we have written, and you and your dog will enjoy it, and you’ll both learn a great deal about each other when you do it.

Cockers are really biddable dogs that love to please and you’ll find that with short, regular training sessions, your dog’s intelligence will quickly shine, they are a very clever breed.

If he makes a mistake, remember that he is just a dog, be patient and kind, and he’ll get there.

Be firm but kind

Cockers are like children, at times they will ‘push their luck’ and ‘try it on’. You will, at times, need to be firm.

Due to their sensitive nature a firm telling off, in the form of ‘No’ is often enough. 

You should never embark on a campaign of physical punishment with a Cocker, or any dog for that matter, he will learn nothing and, in the case of a sensitive dog, you’ll scare him.

To anyone who believes in physically punishing a dog I’d say to them to get a Rottweiler and try to punish it ( I’m not encouraging this but if you did then you would be straight in the dog’s corner – and I wonder how many fingers you would have left).

Physical punishment of dogs is unnecessary and, in the case of Rottweilers, not recommended.

Do Cocker spaniels go well with children?

Yes. Cocker spaniels and children can and do get along fine. Cockers are playful, loyal dogs that love children.

There must be some ground rules in place, however – for the children and they must understand that:

The dog must also understand that the children are higher in the pecking order than he is, and the best way to achieve this is to simply involve the children with the dog’s training ( under adult supervision of course). 

If you are consistent with the words that you use for your commands and the children use these as well, then your spaniel will quickly get the idea that when the children ask him to do something, he must do it.

It is also worth while educating the children so that they understand that sometimes the dog will be tired and he will not want to play and he will just want to rest and be quiet.

For older children you may be able to get them books that can help them to learn more about dogs and how they think and learn.

Having a spaniel should be fun for everyone and is a great way to learn and understand the world as seen through the eyes of our four legged friends.

Do Cocker spaniels get on with cats?

If you have a cat around then you’ll need to make sure that the introductions between cat and dog are managed carefully.

Spaniels of all breeds will happily get on with cats, it may just take a little while for them to sort out the pecking order.

Always make sure that the cat has some means of escaping from the dog as, normally, the cat will run and the dog will chase it. 

It’s natural and so long as the cat can get away they will, eventually become good friends.

If you are looking to get a Cocker and going to have him living in the house then you’ll probably want to know do Cocker spaniels shed hair?

Most dogs do shed some hair and this is a perfectly natural action.

Shedding or moulting as it is known in some places occurs in most animals, including humans, and is a way to get rid of excess and dead hair. In dogs this often occurs in Spring as warmer weather means thick, Winter coats are no longer needed.

Why do dogs shed hair?

Shedding is perfectly normal for most dogs, including Cockers and the other spaniel breeds. 

However if your spaniel is losing hair excessively, then there may be something more that needs the attention of your vet.

Reasons why spaniels shed hair

Your spaniel’s coat is just that, a coat.

His fur and hair help him to control his body temperature and to protect him from the weather, such as the sun and ice and rain.

When his coat stops growing, he will naturally shed.

The amount that your spaniel sheds will depend on his breed, his health, the weather and sometimes his living and accommodation arrangements.

What is normal shedding?

Most dogs, particularly those with double coats, which include Cocker spaniels, will shed their coats when the weather begins to improve.

You’ll typically see greater levels of shedding during Spring and early Summer as your spaniel gets rid of his heavy Winter coat.

Just as you would not want to wear a Winter coat in the Summer, it’s the same for your dog, it’s just that he gets rid of his coat through shedding.

You may think that your dog is shedding a lot but at this time of year it could be perfectly normal and what seems like a lot of hair is actually okay and nothing to be concerned about.

Do Cocker spaniels shed all year?

It really depends on the dog as all spaniels are different but the biggest effect on shedding that I have seen is where the dog lives.

I’ve found that a spaniel living in the house or apartment will shed a lot more and more frequently than a spaniel living in a kennel or dog house, and that house dogs do tend to lose hair all year round.

Why this is I’m not sure I can only think that things such as artificial heating in houses has some sort of effect.

Do working Cocker spaniels shed hair?

Working Cocker spaniels do shed their hair although their levels of hair loss are lower than that of show bred dogs.

This is probably because working spaniels tend to have shorter coats than show dogs and are often more active which will help with the removal of dead hair from their bodies.

Why is my Cocker spaniel shedding so much?

If you think that your spaniel is shedding a lot and maybe too much then there could be a health or behaviour reason.

If your dog is anxious or worried, maybe you have moved house or there have been some changes in the home, then he could shed more due to anxiety.

Your assurances and care will help him to adapt to the change and it may also be useful to visit your vet.

Other things can cause excessive shedding such as worms, fleas, ticks and other skin or parasitic infections.

If you see anything like this then you should see your vet. It is also important to keep up to date with worming and flea treatments.

There is also the potential for allergic reactions to things such as household cleaners.

Hay fever can also affect dogs and this can result in bald patches on legs and other areas that become irritated and inflamed.

How to deal with Cocker spaniel shedding hair

Your spaniel will shed hair but you can reduce the amount that he sheds through regular grooming and brushing. 

By adopting a regular care routine you will be able to pick out the excess hair that would otherwise end up on your furniture or carpets.

You’ll need to get a good dog grooming brush such as this double sided brush on Amazon.

Regular brushing and grooming will also give you a good chance to check your dog over for any signs of injury or ticks in his coat etc.

If you groom your dog frequently and keep him clean then you will find that he will shed a lot less than if you did not brush or bathe him.

Some people suggest bathing a Cocker once or twice a week but this is excessive and bathing him too often can damage his coat and lead to potential skin problems, once a month should be the maximum and if possible longer.

Brushing is more important and effective than washing and if you use a good brush then you will be able to remove a good deal of dead hair.

How do I get my Cocker spaniel to stop shedding?

The reality is that it is perfectly normal for your Cocker spaniel to shed some of his hair and the amounts vary between dogs.

If your dog is losing lots of hair then you should consider getting advice from your vet.

It is quite easy to manage the amount of shedding from your Cocker through regular brushing and grooming and, if you choose to, taking him to a professional dog groomer a couple of times a year for a trim.

One word on groomers – if you have your Cocker shaved then his hair will grow back wiry and will likely lose the glossy, wavy look that makes Cockers so attractive.

My two Cockers have haircuts twice a year and we never have them shaved.

The Cocker Spaniel is generally known by two titles, the English Cocker spaniel and the American Cocker spaniel.

The two breeds are considered as separate breeds although they do originally come  from the same place.

Both breeds produce good litters of puppies which will vary in size depending on a number of factors and it’s important to understand these in order to provide your Cocker with the right care while she is pregnant.

Let’s take a look at litter size and the things that can affect this.

How long are Cocker spaniels pregnant?

Pregnancy length for Cocker spaniels is the same as other dogs at 63 days from conception, however accurate identification of the conception date is not always straightforwards.

The date of mating is not always the date of conception and the process of egg fertilisation can occur over a period of 48 hours after mating.

The only way to be reasonably accurate is with the help of a vet.

But 63 days is the general length of pregnancy for a Cocker spaniel.

How many puppies can a Cocker spaniel have the first time?

A spaniel’s first litter is generally smaller than average and a healthy Cocker spaniel bitch may have less puppies in her first litter than at later dates.

To be accurate and get an understanding of how many puppies to expect the only way will be to visit your vet who will be able to estimate the number via palpation or ultrasound.

Can a Cocker spaniel give birth to only one puppy?

The birth of one puppy in any dog breed is rare and, thankfully is uncommon in Cocker spaniels or any of the spaniel breeds.

Known as Single Puppy Syndrome the birth of a single puppy can be problematic for the youngster and any female dog that is likely to give birth to just one pup should be monitored carefully at birthing time by a vet.

Factors affecting the number of Cocker spaniel puppies

The number of Cocker Spaniel puppies that are born can be influenced by a variety of factors. Here are some of the primary ones:

Age of the Dam (Mother): Younger bitches, especially those in their first or second heat, might produce smaller litters compared to those in their prime age. However, very old bitches might also have smaller litters.

Health and Nutrition: A healthy bitch that receives proper nutrition before and during pregnancy is more likely to have a larger litter. Deficiencies in certain nutrients can affect fertility and the number of puppies born.

Genetics: Some bitches naturally produce larger litters than others, and this trait can be hereditary.

Frequency of Breeding: Overbreeding a bitch can reduce the number of puppies in subsequent litters. It’s generally recommended to allow a bitch to rest between litters.

Size of the Dam: While Cocker Spaniels are a medium-sized breed, there can still be size variations within the breed. Larger bitches might have more room to carry a larger number of puppies.

Mating and Conception: The number of times the bitch is mated during her fertile period, the health and age of the sire (father), and the quality of his sperm can all influence the number of puppies conceived.

Veterinary Care: Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and deworming can ensure that the bitch is in optimal health for pregnancy. Any underlying health issues can affect the number of puppies.

External Factors: Stress, trauma, or exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy can affect the number of puppies that are born.

Previous Litters: Sometimes, the number of puppies in previous litters can give an indication of future litter sizes, although this isn’t always a reliable predictor.

Breeding Techniques: Artificial insemination, for instance, might produce different results compared to natural mating.

Gestation Period: If a bitch delivers prematurely, it might result in a smaller number of live puppies.

Environmental Factors: The environment in which the bitch is kept during pregnancy, including her level of physical activity, temperature, and overall comfort, can play a role in the number of puppies she delivers.

It’s worth noting that while these factors can influence the number of puppies born, there’s always an element of unpredictability in breeding.

Breeders and veterinarians can sometimes estimate the number of puppies using ultrasound or X-rays, but the actual number can vary.

What is the ideal number of puppies for a Cocker spaniel?

The “ideal” number of puppies for a Cocker Spaniel, or any breed for that matter, can vary based on several factors, including the health of the mother, her age, and her overall care. However, in general terms:

Cocker Spaniels typically have litters of between 3 to 7 puppies. A litter size of 4 to 6 puppies is often considered average for the breed.

It’s essential to ensure that the mother is in good health and receives proper prenatal care, as this can influence the number of puppies she can safely carry and deliver.

If you’re considering breeding your Cocker Spaniel or are expecting a litter, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and her puppies.

Do Cocker spaniels mainly have their puppies at night?

From my experience most dog breeds tend to have their puppies at night rather than during the day.

You should have a reasonable idea of when you spaniel will be due to give birth, giving you the chance to prepare.

You’ll want to provide her with a warm, quiet place where she can have her puppies, with plenty of old newspapers or other bedding that she can use.

She’ll also need a good amount of clean water for drinking.

Make sure that your vet is notified and that you know how to get help if needed. Most bitches are natural mothers and the process of puppy birth is normally complication free.

Overhead heat lamps are an ideal way of keeping your mother and her puppies nice and warm, they are safe, clean and cheap to run.

Looking after the mother

The days up to birth you need to keep a close eye on the mother to be, don’t let her out unaccompanied just in case she gives birth outside, stay with her and keep an eye on her.

When she is due to give birth you’ll notice that mother will become restless and may start to build a nest for her puppies.

Take her to the place that you have set up for her, get some help as you’ll need the assistance, stay calm and let nature take her course.

As the first puppy is born, be there to help to clean up, you should do things calmly and quietly, do not be worried if she picks her puppy up to move it, she won’t want you to touch it.

She will eat the placenta so do not be alarmed at this and she will lick the puppies to clean and stimulate breathing.

How often are Cocker puppies born?

Puppies should arrive at regular intervals of between 30 minutes to two hours, and she should be as comfortable and as quiet as possible.

If, however there is a delay and the bitch begins to become distressed then you must get your vet to look at her.

Most deliveries go well and a healthy litter will snuggle up to mother and feed eagerly.

How do I know if my Cocker spaniel still has puppies inside her?

When whelping has finished your spaniel will seem relaxed and tired, she may get up for a few minutes away from the puppies and may indicate that she needs the toilet.

Generally if, after two hours there are no more puppies, then she has most likely finished.

Can a dog have puppies on different days?

Most litters are born in the same delivery, on the same day. There have been instances of puppies being born on different days from the main litter, but these are rare.

The normal intervals for the birth of puppies are anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours.

What is the average Cocker spaniel litter size?

The average litter size for Cocker Spaniels, commonly known as English Cocker Spaniels, is typically between 4 to 6 puppies.

However, it’s important to note that litter sizes can vary, and factors such as the health and age of the mother, genetics, and other individual factors can influence the actual number of puppies in a litter.

What should I feed my Cocker after she has given birth?

You should make sure that the new mother has access to good, high quality food that is nutrient dense.

A good puppy food would be an ideal choice. 

You can read more about the best puppy foods in our article here.

Your options vary in terms of feeding and, rather than giving big meals, you should provide her with more smaller meals, or you can leave food for her so that she can ‘free feed’ taking as much food as she needs, when she needs it.

Will my Cocker let me touch her puppies?

You should not really need to handle new born puppies unless there is a problem.

Most female dogs are tolerant of their humans and will be glad to see you.

They may let their favourite human touch the puppies but you should not make a habit of this and only do it if absolutely necessary.

If you need to move the puppies and their mother then you need to do this carefully and quickly. The biggest risk to newborn puppies is getting cold.

Ideally you should not move puppies until they are at least three weeks old and they shouldn’t be handled or played with until at least this age when they are walking and their eyes have opened.

In all cases, if you do need to move the puppies you must keep them warm, do it as carefully, quietly and quickly as possible and get them back to their mother as fast as you can.

How do you travel with newborn puppies?

Ideally you don’t. You should really plan ahead and avoid any form of travel with a newborn litter of puppies.

However, sometimes circumstances dictate a need to travel so you’ll need a good travel crate or cage that you can pad out to make it safe and warm.

You can read more about suitable crates in our crate article here.

This will be for the pups, mom will need to travel separately so she doesn’t sit or lie on them.

Keep the puppies warm inside the car and keep the mother near to them.

You must stop regularly, at least every 90 minutes and put her with the puppies so that they can feed and she can nurse them.

Your journey will take longer but you will need to take your time, drive gently and quietly, and keep the car warm.

When should I move Cocker spaniel puppies out of the whelping box?

By the time your Cocker spaniel puppies are two weeks old they should be alert and trying to stand up and, by the time they are three weeks old they should be trying to climb out of the box.

Once the puppies are two weeks old, their mother should be spending some time away from them.

By the time they are four weeks they should be playing, running and doing what puppies do, such as wrestling with each other.

At this point they will be adventurous and will try to climb out of the whelping box to explore. You should make sure that their surroundings are secure and safe.

When should a Cocker spaniel puppy leave for it’s new home?

Your puppies should not really leave before they are eight weeks old. By this time the puppy will be strong enough and be growing in independence.

However before your puppies can go to new homes and families, there are other things that, as a responsible breeder, you will need to do.

The puppies will need weaning onto solid food.

They will need worming.

You may need to register them.

You will probably want to get them checked over by your vet.

If you are in the UK then you will need your vet to microchip them.

You may want to prepare owner’s packs or even owner’s contracts before they go to their new homes.

Puppy starter packs

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Frequently asked questions

If you don’t have a spaniel then thinking about getting a puppy or an adult dog can be really exciting.

There are lots to think about and one of the biggest considerations is if where we live will be suitable and, depending on where you live you might be asking can English Cocker Spaniels live in apartments.

Basic apartment living with a Cocker spaniel

To enjoy the best possible life with a Cocker spaniel if you live in an apartment or flat you will need to consider a few things that will help your spaniel to be comfortable.

One of the most important activities of the day for a Cocker spaniel is exercise.

Spaniels are energetic dogs and enjoy long walks and times of play and engagement.

Provided that you are able to take your dog out at least twice a day for about 30 to 40 minutes, then he will be happy living in an apartment.

Sleep

Another thing that you will need to consider is where your spaniel will sleep.

Thankfully English Cocker spaniels are very sociable dogs, they love human company and a Cocker will be more than happy to cuddle up in bed beside you.

This might not suit you or your lifestyle but either way you should make sure that your spaniel has a place that he can call his own, a nice comfortable dog bed, for example.

Noise

Another thing to consider, something that applies to all dog breeds if you live in an apartment is noise. Dogs bark and some dogs bark more than others.

English Cocker Spaniels are not overly noisy and do not normally bark, however, it is something to consider before getting a dog if you live in an apartment.

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Can Cocker spaniels stay alone in an apartment?

Many dogs are left alone for some parts of the day, while their owners are at work or shopping for example.

Cocker spaniels are no exception to this and, if you own one, then the reality is that at some point you will need to leave him alone while you do something else.

The best way to deal with your dog if you do need to leave him on his own is to make sure that you have taken him out for a good walk before you go, that he has some food and has plenty of clean water to drink. provide him with a comfortable place to sleep and he will settle down until you come home.

An interactive dog toy can help to keep your dog occupied for a while. You simply fill the toy with dog treats and your dog will spend time working out how to get the treats.

This mental stimulation is good for all breeds and, as well as occupying your dog for a while, the mental workout will tire him and help him to sleep.

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Try not to leave your spaniel for too long, and, if you are delayed or likely to be away for longer than you like, then try to get someone to call in and check on your dog and maybe take him out so that he can use the toilet.

Both the English and American Cocker spaniel  breeds are both very social and get attached to their humans, so they can be pretty prone to separation anxiety.

Careful, gentle conditioning and training, a clear and consistent “be good while I’m gone” routine, and good understanding of your dog will help to avoid problems with separation anxiety.

As long as you are able to provide them with lots of social, intellectual and physical activities as much as possible you will avoid many problems with your English Cocker living in an apartment.

How many Cocker spaniels can live in an apartment?

In the US most apartments are limited to 2 dogs, of any breed and, in some cases, dogs are not allowed.

If you are keeping a Cocker spaniel in an apartment and you are looking at an extra dog then you really need to think about how much space is available, not only for the dogs, but also for you and your family.

Before you commit to getting a spaniel you should check with your landlord if dogs are allowed and, if so, how many and what, if any restrictions exist.

A small apartment can present challenges for a family to live in and, if you decide to get a Cocker spaniel then you will need to be prepared to adapt and change some aspects of your life to accommodate the dog.

If you are already struggling with apartment living then you should take a deep breath and give serious thought before you commit to getting a Cocker.

Can an English Cocker spaniel live in an upstairs apartment?

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Thankfully English Cocker spaniels are kind, gentle dogs that love people and the family life. An English Cocker spaniel is at his happiest when he is with his human pack, no matter where they live.

Cocker spaniels can live in upstairs apartments as long as the same approach is adopted as with other apartments in terms of exercise, sleep etc.

If you leave your spaniel while you are at work for example, then there are some great technologies available now that can help you to stay in touch with your dog while you are out and he is at home.

Many of these devices have built in cameras and microphones that allow you to stay in touch with your dog. Often they have mobile apps so that it is easy to use from your cellphone.

There are even some devices, such as this one on Amazon, that will dispense treats for your spaniel, either by your control from your phone or by your dog activating the device by playing a dog style game.

Things that you will need for an English Cocker spaniel in an apartment

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When you have an English Cocker spaniel in an apartment there are a few dog products that you should get to make sure that you can care for your spaniel properly.

First Aid Kit – You should have a first aid kit for your spaniel just in case.

The kit should include antibiotic ointment, bandages, gauze, ear cleaner, cotton swabs, saline solution, tweezers and a pair of scissors ( shears).

Dog Bed – Your spaniel will need a place that he can call his own, where he can go to relax and chill out and also to rest and sleep. 

Get him the best bed that you can afford to keep him warm, safe and comfortable.

Crate/Pet Gates – there may be times when you need to use a crate for your spaniel, maybe to keep him from certain areas of the apartment while you are out or to keep him safe.

There are many different types of crate available and you should choose carefully to make sure that a crate is large enough for your spaniel.

There are also pet gates available that fit across doorways to keep your spaniel away from certain areas.

Cleaning products – Your spaniel may have accidents while in the house/apartment.

While this is unpleasant you should not scold your dog if he has a mishap.

It is your fault, You are the human who can open doors and take him out, so it will be your job to clean it up. A selection of upholstery and carpet cleaners is recommended.

Grooming Equipment – Spaniels love to be groomed and a spaniel living in an apartment will need regular brushing and an occasional bath to keep him clean and to reduce shedding.

At the very least you should have a twin sided brush that is suitable for dog grooming.

Walking gear – Your spaniel will need exercise and for this you will need a suitable leash and perhaps a whistle. English Cocker spaniels can get cold in bad weather and you may wish to get a dog coat for him if you live in a cold area or an area that has bad winters.

Think about your own needs too, hat, gloves, coat, boots etc.

Toys – Cocker spaniels love toys, mine have loads of soft toys, chews, balls and lots more.

Toys are great for dogs, they provide them with something to chew on, throw around, wrestle with and play with. There is a wide selection of toys that you can get to keep your dog occupied.

Dog Treats – Cocker spaniels love treats and they enjoy biscuits, meaty strips, bones, dentastix and more.

It is always a good idea to have a variety of treats available for your spaniel to use as a treat or as a reward.

Will an apartment smell of dogs?

Most of the spaniel breeds are clean dogs that rarely smell. If your dog gets wet or you don’t look after him then he can develop a doggy odour.

In the main Cockers are clean dogs that normally do not smell.

You can find out more about smelly Cocker spaniels and reasons why they might smell in our article here.

FAQs

Cocker spaniels love going for walks and need good amounts of exercise every day in order to keep them in the best of health.

I’m fortunate where I live as within a few minutes we are into open fells where my two Cockers can run freely whenever we are not training.

How long should a Cocker spaniel be walked for?

Ideally you should look to try and get your Cocker out two or three times daily, at a minimum.

Cockers, like most of the spaniel breeds, are high energy dogs that need good levels of exercise.

A Cocker spaniel puppy will need regular, short walks, as he will get tired easily, and too much vigorous exercise at a young age, could lead to injury.

If you have a yard or garden then a puppy will enjoy scampering around. This is also a good opportunity to introduce puppy toilet training.

Adult Cocker spaniels are much tougher than puppies and they will enjoy good, demanding exercise.

If you can find places where they can run free, without fear of disturbing livestock, then letting them charge around, chasing their noses, is ideal exercise for them.

Cocker spaniel walking time by age

Is one walk a day enough for a Cocker spaniel?

This will depend on how far you walk with your dog and the type of exercise. Generally speaking the longer the individual walk, the less the number of walks needed.

All dogs are different and older dogs are more likely to be content with one walk than younger, more active individuals.

You also need to factor in the time of year, weather and your fitness levels and time available.

A Cocker will never get bored of going for a walk so, if you can provide him with more than one walk a day, he will enjoy the opportunity to run around and enjoy himself.

Exercising a working Cocker spaniel

If your Cocker is a working dog, or trained for other purposes, then you will need to keep a close eye on him when he is out ‘exercising’.

Free running is a great way to keep your Cocker fit and strong and, particularly during the summer months, when there is no work for him, running free is ideal – as is any form of cardiovascular exercise.

However, you must keep an eye on your dog and monitor his free running.

As a working dog his instinct will be to hunt and, if you allow too much free hunting, then he is likely to begin to ignore you and cast himself too far away from you.

Keep him close, use the whistle or call his name.

An option that I use for Boris and Nimrod when we go out, is to let them do their ‘business first, with a sniff around, call them in and then set them off hunting, as though we are out shooting.

After a few minutes, I’ll get them into heel, maybe put their leads on for a while, and then, when we are heading back to the car, I’ll allow then to run and ‘play’ – while watching them closely.

Your Cocker needs to run free, you can’t keep him on a lead for the whole walk, just watch him when he is and you’ll help to avoid any bad habits from creeping in.

How far can a Cocker spaniel walk?

Further than I can, would be the easy answer. Seriously though, they can walk a serious distance.

Although I have successfully tired a spaniel out before, it was not easy and most spaniels have the to go on and on and on.

Today, for example, my two Cockers were out first thing this morning on the fell.

We did some training for about twenty minutes, followed by a walk while they ran through the heather and rushes.

After getting home they spent most of the morning and early afternoon helping me do some outdoor jobs, their support was in the form of digging holes everywhere.

They have just gone out again with my daughter, to climb the steepest fell in the area, a walk of around 2 to 3 miles.

I suspect that when they get back, they’ll eat, sleep for about 30 minutes and then they will be back to ‘full power’, ready for more.

How far can a Cocker spaniel run?

Before I had knee surgery I used to run a lot. I would often take one of the dogs with me. 

If I ran 5 miles across the fell, then the dog would probably run double that, as he ran back and forwards. 

If you are planning to go running with your Cocker then try and go somewhere where your dog does not need to be on a lead, trust me, running with a spaniel that is on a lead, is like having a fish on a line, he’ll trip you up, you’ll get tangled up.

Best to run without the lead.

Also, try to run on a soft surface for the benefit of your dog. Roads and pavements can be damaging to his paws and his joints.

If possible run on grass or ‘off road’, if you can get to the beach then these are great places to go running with a dog.

The surface is soft, he can run free and you can easily see where he is, and, there’s normally water, so he can go for a dip too to cool off.

Is swimming good exercise for Cocker spaniels?

It certainly is. Swimming is a great way to help keep your spaniel fit and, from my experience, is one way to tire him out.

If you are lucky enough to live near a clean river or the sea, where is is safe to take your dog, then, swimming can be a great way to help him to burn off that excess energy that spaniels have.

You should always make sure that the water is safe for your dog and that it is not too fast flowing or, if a river, that it is not swollen and there is no risk of your dog being swept away.

Cocker spaniels do get cold so, swimming in cold weather is not ideal.

Clearly if your dog is working then there may be occasions when he does need to swim in the cold, but, for general exercise, swimming is best kept for warmer days.

How should I exercise an injured Cocker spaniel?

If your Cocker is recovering from an injury or surgery or other ailment, then you’ll need to change his exercise regime to help him with his recovery.

You should always listen to your vet and, if you have any doubts or need professional advice, then your vet is qualified and is the best person to help you.

Apart from reducing the time spent on walks and restricting free running there is little to do other than to be careful and aware of your dog’s condition and needs.

There are some places that provide recuperation services for dogs, such as hydrotherapy pools, which are heated and allow the dog to swim gently to aid recovery.

Your vet will be able to advise on these and any other specific exercise needs for your Cocker spaniel.

Introduce mental stimulation into your Cocker spaniel’s exercise

If you can make your spaniel’s exercise into something similar to a ‘doggy mission’ then this will help him to become tired.

Any form  of mental stimulation is great for your Cocker spaniel, such as training, playing, chasing etc.

Simply playing ‘fetch’ with a tennis ball when out walking, will introduce some purpose into your dog’s walk and will stimulate his brain.

Throwing a ball and getting him to retrieve it encourages the chasing response whch most dogs love.

If you can make the game more interesting and difficult by making the ball harder to find so that he has to hunt for it, then that’s even better.

Try to exercise your spaniel’s brain as well as his body when you take him out.

How much exercise does a Cocker spaniel puppy need?

Puppies need less exercise than an adult dog. If you over exercise a puppy then you run the risk of causing damage to his bones and joints which could lead to arthritis.

General advice is to allow for 5 minutes of exercise per month of age , up to twice a day until the puppy is fully grown.

So, for example a four month old Cocker spaniel puppy would need 20 minutes of exercise twice a day.

As well as this exercise you will also need to take him out to use the toilet regularly.

How often should I walk an old Cocker spaniel?

It’s a fact that dogs, like people, get old and as they get old, they get slower and less active.

That doesn’t mean that you cannot enjoy walks with your Cocker spaniel, it just means that the walks may not be as long and he will probably get tired sooner.

It is important that your older Cocker gets out for regular walks, the exercise is good for him ( and for you) and you should try to maintain a routine with him as much as possible.

Try to take him out in the morning, when he has woken from a good night’s sleep.

He’ll probably have more energy at this time and he will enjoy the exercise.

How far you walk with him depends on your dog and you should watch him while you are out to see if he is getting tired.

He’ll probably sleep when he gets home.

Elderly spaniels sleep much more than younger dogs. Later in the day you could take him out again.

It all depends on your dog and if he has been with you for a while then you should know him pretty well and know what he enjoys.

FAQs

Fish is a popular choice of foods for dogs and can provide your pet with a wide range of valuable nutrients and oils that will help him to stay fit and healthy.

But does this extend to canned fish, such as canned tuna?

Canned tuna in brine is a good choice for a Cocker spaniel and, if fed in moderation it will provide your dog with some valuable nutrients and beneficial and healthy oils. It also makes a nice treat and alternative meal for dogs, most of whom, love the smell and taste.

What are the benefits of feeding canned tuna to my dog?

Many dog foods contain tuna and other fish, it is good source of protein, oils and nutrients that, as well as being good for humans, is also good for spaniels and other dogs.

Feeding tuna fish to your Cocker Spaniel can provide him with a number of health benefits:

Tuna can help to lower blood pressure

It is good for your dog’s heart

Your spaniel‘s immune system will benefit

Feeding tuna can be good for overweight dogs as it helps weight loss

Tuna is s good source of energy

It is good for skin, bones, eyes and coat.

Tuna fish can help your spaniel if he has an upset stomach

Is canned tuna good for Cocker spaniels?

Tuna fish is a great source of high quality protein and it contains almost no fat.

Canned tuna contains all of the amino acids that your spaniel needs for healthy growth and for the maintenance of lean body tissue and muscles.

Canned tuna is a good source of omega 3 fatty acids which can help the brain development of puppies,  strengthen your spaniel’s immune system, reduce inflammation and help your dog to fight off cancers and other illnesses.

Tuna, like all fish is a great alternative for your spaniel and, if fed carefully, will provide you with a different option when feeding your spaniel.

The taste and smell is something that most dogs love.

Popular tuna choices for dogs

Is tuna a superfood for dogs?

Superfoods are those which provide maximum amount of nutrients with the minimum of calories and there are a few foods that provide health benefits to your dog in this way.

The natural oils in tuna fish provide high levels of nutrients with minimal levels of calories making tuna an ideal superfood for your spaniel.

How much canned tuna can I feed a Cocker spaniel?

It’s clear that canned tuna fish is great for a Cocker Spaniel and that there are many health benefits for your dog.

There is a concern about mercury levels contained within some types of tuna, due, in the main to their feeding habits, and it is sensible to limit the amount of tuna fish that you feed to your Cocker.

Once or twice a week is the maximum suggested for adult Cocker Spaniels.

Is canned tuna healthy for Cocker spaniels?

Canned tuna fish is a healthy option for your spaniel and makes a nice treat. 

When you go to buy canned tuna for your dog always look for tuna fish that is in water or brine rather than oil and preferably without any added salt.

The oil that some tuna is packed in can upset your spaniel’s stomach. 

If the only tuna that you can find is packed in oil then you should rinse the tuna in a sieve with tap water to remove as much of the oil as possible before feeding it to your dog.

Can I feed tuna fish to my Cocker Spaniel everyday?

Tuna fish are large, long living fish, and their bodies can contain high levels of mercury. 

Tuna are not toxic to dogs but, if you feed tuna fish to your spaniel too often, then there is a possibility of your spaniel ingesting levels of mercury that could be bad for him.

Daily feeding if any form of tuna, canned or otherwise, to your Cocker Spaniel is not recommended.

Is tuna good for Cocker Spaniels that are unwell?

Last summer, Boris, one of my Cocker Spaniel was unwell. He had contracted giardia which made him pretty poorly and upset his stomach quite badly.

After getting treatment from the vet, the vet suggested a diet of mashed potato and tuna fish for Boris, to get him eating and to help to settle his tummy.

Boris is normally great with his meals but this illness had really taken its effect on him, but, as soon as he was given the mashed potato mixed with the tuna, he wolfed it down.

A few small meals of this and he re-gained his energy and, along with his doggy meds he was soon back to normal.

So, from our experience a diet of small meals of mashed potato, mixed with a small can of tuna, works wonders for Cocker Spaniels that are unwell.

Can Cocker spaniels eat tuna and rice?

Yes. Tuna and rice is a good combination for your Cocker spaniel.

You should however always make sure that the tuna fish is in water or brine and not oil and, of course make sure that the rice is cooked properly and has cooled before you feed it.

Mix the tuna fish into the rice, you can add the water from the can to the dish for extra flavor.

Can Cocker spaniel puppies eat tuna?

Canned tuna fish makes a good meal for a Cocker Spaniel puppy. The richness of Omega 3 oils will help your puppy with all aspects of his development.

The best way to feed tuna to your puppy is to mix about a quarter of a can of tuna fish into the puppy’s regular food mashing it thoroughly to make sure that any small bones have been crushed.

How to feed tuna fish to a Cocker spaniel

You should not have any problems getting your Cocker Spaniel to eat tuna fish.

I’ve found that most spaniels like fish as much as meat and they will happily scoff as much tuna as they can get.

If you have never given your dog tuna before then, like with every other new food, you should introduce it gradually, never all at once to avoid upsetting his tummy.

You should use tuna fish as an occasional treat, as opposed to a regular, daily meal. Mix the tuna fish in with your Cocker’s other food if you can, and add the water from the can which he will enjoy.

If your Cocker starts with an upset tummy or has diarrhoea after feeding him tuna fish, then you should avoid feeding him tuna.

Final Words

Tuna fish is a healthy and tasty treat for your Cocker spaniel.

As long as sensible precautions are taken  then giving canned tuna fish to your Cocker spaniel as an occasional treat should be okay.

If you do decide to give your Cocker spaniel canned tuna fish then make sure that it is canned in water or brine and not oil.

Only give your Cocker a small portion of tuna at a time, if possible then the best way is to mix it with his regular food.

Your Cocker will get benefits from the Omega 3 oils in the fish and feeding small amounts at a maximum of twice a week will help to keep him healthy.

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So, do Cocker spaniels need coats? It will depend on where you live and the weather and temperature outside. You’ll need to provide your dog with a good coat if it is cold and wet. So, yes, Cocker Spaniels do need coats.

Cocker spaniels are hardy dogs that have been bred for days outside, working and they enjoy being outdoors for long periods.

Like all animals, they can get cold, particularly if the weather is damp or wet, the temperature is low and if they are stationary for long periods and it is important to protect them from adverse conditions.

My two Cocker spaniels, Boris and Nimrod, and others that I have been around do seem to get cold more quickly than other breeds of spaniels that I have owned. So they have coats to give them some protection, and these do help.

What type of coat does a Cocker spaniel have?

Cocker spaniels have short to medium length coats that normally have areas of feathering around the chest and legs. 

Their hair is generally fine and silky, although if the Cocker has been shaved in the past then his hair will be more wiry.

Underneath the ‘top coat’ of fine and silky hair, there is another layer which we can describe as an undercoat.

This is a soft coat which provides your dog with insulation to help to keep him warm.

This soft ‘inner coat’ is one of the reasons why many people say you should not roughly towel dry a spaniel as you will force water into the undercoat, which will make him cold.

It is also one of the reasons why should not bath your Cocker Spaniel too often as you remove the natural oils that help to repel moisture.

Should I get a winter coat for my Cocker spaniel?

This really depends on where you live, the temperature, whether you dog gets wet when you go out and, to some extent, how old and healthy your spaniel is.

The double coat that Cocker spaniels have is designed to keep them warm, however, it is only thin and will only provide your dog with protection for a short period of time.

Whereas his coat is better than the coat of a poodle, it is not as effective as that of a husky or similar dog.

If you live in a cold or wet ( or both) area, then it is wise to get your Cocker spaniel a coat, this will help to keep him warm and happy and will also help to minimise any potential health problems that could occur with him getting cold.

Is putting a coat on my spaniel cruel?

I’m not an advocate of putting clothes on spaniels or, for that matter any other breed of dog. I’m of the view that dogs are dogs and should be allowed to be dogs, they are not mini people.

That said many people do dress their dogs up in a variety of outfits and the dogs don’t seem to suffer from it.

As for being cruel? I don’t know, but there are certainly far more worse things that people do to dogs which are definitely cruel.

If your spaniel gets too cold then he can become very unwell and if a coat helps to prevent this and keep your Cocker spaniel warm and comfortable then it is worth using. 

Can Cocker spaniels get hypothermia?

If your Cocker spaniel gets very cold then this can result in hypothermia. 

Your spaniel’s normal body temperature will be between 101 degrees fahrenheit and 102.5 degrees. Anything below 100 degrees is considered to be hypothermia in dogs.

If this persists and is not dealt with quickly then it can cause serious complications and can even be fatal.

You will know if your spaniel is feeling cold as he will likely be shivering, the inside of his ears will be cold to the touch and his gums may look pale.

If he isn’t warmed carefully then he may become listless and lethargic.

The key causes of hypothermia are:

Being exposed to low temperatues for long periods of time

Being in winds or draughts – this can even occur on a warm day

Wet hair/fur and skin

Being in cold water or icy conditions (snow) for long periods of time

What to do if your Cocker spaniel gets really cold

If your Cocker spaniel gets excessively cold, then you should look to turn this around and help him to feel warm. The longer that you leave it the worse it could become.

Warm some blankets, towels, sheets, anything you can find, either in the dryer, on a radiator, with a hairdryer – however you are able.

Wrap your dog in the warm blankets

Fill a hot water bottle with hot water, wrap it inside a towel and place it carefully against your spaniel’s tummy.

Move your dog to a warm area

Make sure that he is dry and away from any draughts

Contact your vet for professional advice if you are concerned

How to stop your Cocker spaniel from getting cold

The best way to stop your spaniel from getting cold is to avoid spending too much time in cold and wet conditions with your dog.

If you are out while the weather is like this then keep your spaniel moving, he will generate body heat from running or walking.

If you stay still while he is wet then he will quickly get cold – just like you do.

If your spaniel is old or has health conditions then the risk of getting cold can increase and you should be thoughtful about how long you spend in the cold and wet with him.

Dog coats, boots and other dog clothing can help to keep your Cocker spaniel warm and dry particularly during the winter months.

Do Cocker spaniels like rain?

Based on the information I gathered during my research, the response of Cocker spaniels to rain varies among individual dogs.

Some Cocker spaniels avoid puddles and dislike getting wet or muddy, while others seem to be attracted to mud, puddles, and bodies of water. For instance:

One owner mentioned their Cocker spaniel, Smudge, would avoid puddles and detour around them, also disliking washing paws in water.

Another Cocker spaniel, Floyd, initially avoided puddles and mud but eventually started to head straight for them.

Tilly, another Cocker spaniel, is a puddle-avoider and dislikes rain to the extent of not wanting to go out even for a wee.

Mollie loves mud and bodies of water but refuses to go out in the rain.

Some owners observed their Cocker spaniels running around trying to get away from their wet selves after walking in the rain.

Another example is Gari, who enjoys lying in puddles but hates getting a shower.

It appears that while some Cocker spaniels may enjoy playing in water and getting muddy, they might not necessarily enjoy the rain itself, often showing an aversion to going out in it.

This behaviour seems to be more about individual preferences rather than a breed-specific trait.

What is the best coat to get for a Cocker spaniel?

There are a number of things to consider before you buy a coat for your Cocker spaniel:

The size of the coat – you need to make sure that you get the right sized coat for your spaniel so that it fits properly and keeps him warm and dry.

The ideal dog coat should fit well but should have enough room and freedom to give your dog  the opportunity to move around easily.

The coat will need to cover the main areas of his body that will be exposed to the weather – his chest and neck, his back, and some of his tummy.

Most suppliers provide guides to help you to measure your dog before you order so that you can get the correct size.

My Cockers have coats from the middle isle of Aldi – which were cheap, but well made and are durable – great value for working spaniels that often get filthy.

Here are some alternative options, that are great for Cockers:

Things to look for

Can you wash it? – Your spaniel’s coat will get dirty quite quickly, most likely from mud and dirty water.

It can also get grubby from snow and slush and there is a good chance that it will end up with urine on it from when he goes to the toilet.

So before you buy check to see if the coat can be easily washed, either by hand or in the machine.

Is it waterproof? – at the very least any coat for your Cocker Spaniel should be water resistant but ideally you need a coat to be waterproof.

If a coat cannot withstand the rain and damp then it will quickly allow water onto your dog’s skin and he will get cold. You need a coat that keeps your dog warm and dry.

How well insulated is it?  – To keep your spaniel warm you will need a coat that is well insulated.

Check the coat to see what the insulataion is made from, most coats contain synthetic materials and fleece that will keep your spaniel warm.

Can he go to the toilet easily? –  Your spaniel will need a coat that allows him to go to the toilet when he needs to.

A coat that needs removing or prevents him from going is no real use to him. Most coats have openings that are conveniently placed.

How heavy is it? – You’ll need to find a coat that offers the best combination of weight and weather protection and insulation.

A coat that is too heavy for your spaniel will be ineffective and uncomfortable for him, whereas one that is lightweight will offer little protection in harsh weather and environments.

FAQs