We don’t know which Cocker Spaniel you are talking about here – American or English. The good thing is that it’s not going to be an issue because the answer remains the same for both.
Originally bred as hunting dogs in the UK, Cocker Spaniels get their name from their use to hunt the Eurasian woodcock. The American version was bred to specialize in hunting the American woodcock (who could have guessed that!). You may think that the hunting background would make them scary and aggressive, but they are just the opposite - super happy, playful and affectionate. They are highly intelligent and athletic as well. With them, it’s like you’ll have a puppy even when they are in their adult phase. (1)
They have a long and flowing coat, which is nothing short of the epitome of elegance. They have the power to melt the iciest of hearts. It comes in a smooth texture and a luxurious length. The fur is typically feathered on the ears, legs, chest, and belly. This beautiful coat comes in a variety of colors, including solid black, golden, liver, and multicolored combinations like black and white or roan patterns.
This luxurious coat is like glitter at a craft party, though. Once it starts shedding, you’ll find the traces everywhere, from your couch to your furniture and sometimes even your food. Don’t start worrying already. They are far from shedding like a Golden Retriever. There are ways to control the shedding as well.
Read More: How Much Does a Cocker Spaniel Cost?
Factors Influencing Shedding in Cocker Spaniels
Cocker Spaniels have a medium-length, silky coat that is as flat as an iron. It comes double layered – a short undercoat that helps regulate the body temperature and an overcoat that offers protection from dirt and water (and attracts the ladies). All dogs that have this kind of double-layered coat tend to shed.
These Spaniels shed moderately throughout the year. This shedding is usually the outercoat outgrowing a certain length and falling as new growth appears. They have a shedding season when they shed more than usual. It is usually in hot months when the undercoat sheds to cool their bodies. (2)
While climate is one of the most important factors affecting shedding in a Cocker Spaniel, other factors like age, health and diet can also affect it. Skin conditions like allergies, atopy, etc. are common conditions seen in these dogs. They can cause itchy skin and affect shedding. Stress can also affect shedding in dogs. Events like changes in routine, staying away from the owner for too long, a new pet in the house, etc., can increase shedding in some dogs.
Tips to Manage Shedding in Cocker Spaniels
Cocker Spaniels are not very heavy shedders. However, even the moderate amount of shedding they have can be controlled. Here are some tips to do so –
Brush their coats 2-3 times a week to remove loose hair and avoid matting or tangling. A pin brush works well for removing dead hair. You can then use a soft bristle to list loose hair.
There is no fixed frequency recommendation for bathing them. You can bathe them every 15 days if the dog spends a lot of time outdoors or once every 1-2 months if their favorite hangout place is your couch.
You may need to increase the frequency during the shedding season.
While your dog doesn’t really need a haircut, they could use a trim around their face and ears.
You can’t stop their shedding completely. More than can’t, you should not. However, regular grooming can help reduce it and keep the dog’s coat healthy.
Grooming Needs Beyond Shedding
Apart from their skin and coat, you also need to take care of some other things to keep them healthy overall. They include – (3)
Ear cleaning – If you look at the amount of hair around their ears, you’ll know how easy it would be for dirt and debris to stick in there and cause issues. It can also cause infections. Moreover, the long, heavy ears can prevent air from properly circulating the ear canal as well. So, you’ll have to regularly clean the ears and check for any lumps or signs of parasites.
Brushing the teeth – Just how important it is to brush your teeth regularly to prevent plaque and tartar from building up, it is the same for dogs. Make sure you clean their teeth, too, to keep their gums healthy.
Exercise – We know it’s not really included in grooming, but it is very important to keep your dog mentally and physically stimulated. A well-stimulated dog is a healthy dog.
Common Shedding Concerns in Dogs
While the amount of shedding can vary a little from dog to dog, you may sometimes find abnormal amounts of shedding that may not particularly be natural. There can be various reasons behind it. They include – (4)
Allergies
Stress
Illness
Poor diet
Parasites
Skin infection, etc.
It is important to ensure regular vet visits to identify symptoms, if any, at early stages and treat them.
More about Spot Pet Insurance.
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Spot accident and illness plans can be used with any licensed vet in Canada or the U.S. Whether you are home, or traveling to the U.S., veterinary services your pet receives for the diagnosis, treatment, or management of covered conditions can be eligible for reimbursement. Spot’s accident and illness plans can help cover a variety of conditions including broken bones, lacerations, aggression, kidney disease, diabetes, and more. With the addition of Wellness Riders for an extra cost, you can also receive reimbursements for wellness exams, certain vaccinations, dental cleanings, and more.
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With 15 years as a dog and cat parent, my pet articles are a mix of humor and firsthand experience - proof that the best stories often come with paws and purrs.
With 10 years of experience as a pet parent, I aim to empower pet owners with insights into pet insurance and maintaining their pet's well-being. I aspire to be a trusted source, combining knowledge with a commitment to the welfare of our beloved pets.
Wikipedia contributors. (2024, November 22). Cocker Spaniel. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cocker_Spaniel
Kerr, K. (2024, August 20). How much do cocker spaniels shed? Facts & care tips. Dogster. https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/how-much-do-cocker-spaniels-shed
Cocker Spaniel - temperament, lifespan, grooming, training. (n.d.). [Video]. https://www.petplan.co.uk/pet-information/dog/breed/cocker-spaniel/
When and why do dogs shed the most? | Veterinary Dermatologist in Orange Park. (2024, July 30). https://www.animalfriendsdermatology.com/site/blog/2024/07/30/when-why-dogs-shed-most
