Caring for a Cocker

 

Cockers are high maintenance dogs. If you want a wash and wear dog, who will happily spend most of the time outside with little to no coat maintenance, they’re not the dog for you. Their eyes and ears in particular require regular checking and attention.

 

Like all breeds with long, heavy ears, Cockers can tend to acquire ear infections if care isn’t paid to their ears. The ears can also become dirty after playing, foraging or eating. A quick wipe with a damp cloth and a comb through after their evening mean will keep the outside clean. You also need to regularly check the underside of your Cockers ears to make sure they are clean, have no odour and are a healthy colour–irritated/infected ears will be nasty red and feel warm to touch. A thorough brushing for approximately 20 minutes twice a week will keep the rest of their coat tangle-free and is also a great way to spend quality time with your dog–they will love you for it.

 

The Cocker coat requires thorough grooming about every 6-8 weeks, depending on your preferred length. If you’re not able to do this yourself, you can take them to a professional groomer, who will charge you anywhere from $50-$90.