Cocker Spaniel Care Kit

Caring for Your Cocker Spaniel

People originally bred this dog for use in hunting. As their name hints, the “cocker” spaniel would specialize in hunting woodcock. These spaniels located and flushed the birds for their owners, and then used their keen sense of smell to locate the birds and carry them back to the hunter. Nowadays, few household cocker spaniels are participating in frequent hunting trips, but these spunky little dogs still need to “work.” Read on to learn how you should properly care for your cocker spaniel.

 Cocker Spaniel Kit 

Leashes & Harnesses

Features

Like all hunting dogs, these pups have surprising stamina packed into their smaller body. While getting their daily exercise, ensure you:

  • Use a harness that will not choke.
  • A 16 – 20″ chest fit on average (measure your cocker spaniel).
  • Have a standard six-foot leash.
  • Avoid dangerous retractable leashes.

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Basic Toys

Features

This little breed is highly intelligent and has a strong prey drive. Keep them entertained with toys that are:

  • Fetchable!
  • Durable.
  • Provide varied textures.

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Mentally Stimulating Toys

Features

Since you likely aren’t taking your spaniel out to “work” retrieving birds, you need to replace that mental stimulation. Choose activities that:

  • Replicate foraging behaviors.
  • Encourage critical thinking skills.
  • Take a long time to finish.

Expert Picks

  • Chuckit! Dog Ball Launcher – Ask your dog for their best “sit,” “down,” or “paw,” then chuck that squeaky ball across the yard!
  • KONG Extreme Dog Toy – Your dog might be on the smaller side, but you still want at least a size Medium! Fill with canned pumpkin and peanut butter, then freeze!

Chews

Features

If you need a little time to yourself and want to keep your cocker spaniel preoccupied, a good chew is the way to go. Choose chews that are:

  • High-value.
  • Thick/braided/long.
  • Safe for dogs.

Expert Picks

  • Braided Bully Stick – The braided shape means your dog takes even longer to chew! Fully digestible.
  • Split Elk Antler – Split antlers have easily accessible and yummy marrow. Supervise at first.

Dog Beds

Features

After a long day of play, provide your pup with a bed that is:

  • Easy to clean.
  • Durable.
  • Supports joints.

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Dog Crates

Features

This dedicated little breed doesn’t like being left alone. However, when you do need to leave your cocker spaniel at home, make sure that their crate is:

  • Safe and secure.
  • Comes with a divider.
  • Sized properly.

Expert Picks

  • MidWest Homes Crate – This crate leaves ample space. It comes with a divider and double doors.
  • AmazonBasics Crate – Also sized appropriately for most cocker spaniels. Comes with a divider.

Dog Treats

Features

This smart little breed loves to learn new things. When training use positive reinforcement, and feed treats that are:

  • Tasty.
  • Soft/moist.
  • Provide varied proteins.

Expert Picks

  • Beam’s Ocean Chews – These jerky-like fish skins are chewy and high-value. Rip them up into smaller pieces while training.
  • Zuke’s Training Treats – Many different flavors to choose from. Small chewy treats that are easy to break into pieces.

Travel Supplies

Features

Your cocker spaniel loves spending time with you. Bring them along for the ride, but don’t forget:

  • Care necessities.
  • Seatbelt adaptors.
  • Seat covers.

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Anxiety Reduction

Features

If your dog shows signs of anxiety, help ease their nerves with:

  • Mentally stimulating activities.
  • Their favorite chew.
  • Compression.

Expert Picks

  • IQ Treat Ball – Let your dog work their brain and get some treats! Mentally stimulating activities help reduce anxiety.
  • ThunderShirt – Compression reduces anxiety in some dogs. A small should fit most cocker spaniels, but measure first!

Housebreaking

Features

As with any smaller breed, housebreaking can be difficult. Always remember to:

  • Crate when unsupervised.
  • Use gates and playpens to keep your dog close.
  • Closely supervise.

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Dog Foods

Features

Whether you have a puppy or an adult dog, proper nutrition is important. Choose a dog food with:

  • High-quality ingredients.
  • “Exotic” proteins.
  • High protein percentage.

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Hair Clippers

Features

Underneath their long silky coat, this breed has a soft undercoat. Because they have a double coat, you should not shave their fur. However, you can trim their fur with scissors.

Expert Picks

  • H-Jia Dog Grooming Set – This grooming set comes with several types of scissors with safety tips to protect your dog.

Shampoos

Features

You should wash and thoroughly groom your cocker spaniel every six weeks or so. When you bathe your dog, choose shampoo that’s:

  • Soothing on skin.
  • Safe for dogs.
  • Helps reduce shedding.

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Brushes

Features

Your cocker spaniel has a double coat. To prevent tangles, you must groom regularly with:

  • A shedding rake.
  • A Pin brush.
  • A fine comb for the ears and feathering.

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Hair Dryers

Features

You must fully dry your cocker spaniel to prevent skin irritation. When drying, choose a dryer that is:

  • Powerful.
  • Quiet.
  • Controllable temperature.

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