Cocker Spaniels are known for their sweet temperament. They are perfect for those who live in condos and apartments because they don’t need a lot of space to play. A 30-minute walk and daily romp in the backyard can keep them healthy and happy. This breed doesn’t like being left alone outdoors and may try to amuse themselves by barking or digging. They may also chew on your stuff and display other unwanted behaviors when they are bored.
Cocker Spaniels are most comfortable when they are with their family. This breed will do well in obedience and agility competitions, canine sports, tracking and hunt tests because they are hunters at heart. They are sensitive dogs, so they don’t respond well to ruthless treatment. They might snap or growl when they are afraid or in pain.
Cocker Spaniels should be trained and socialized early in order to teach them the right manners. This breed should be handled kindly and carefully to bring out their best personality.
Is the Cocker Spaniel Hypoallergenic?
There is no hypoallergenic dog. Cocker Spaniels shed moderately, but they do it more during the shedding season. So, what does hypoallergenic mean when it comes to dogs?
Hypoallergenic dogs are those that shed little or don’t shed at all. You might say that dogs that shed less also produce fewer allergens. However, it is theproteins in their saliva, urine and dander that cause allergic reactions meaning that no breed is 100 percent hypoallergenic, including the Cocker Spaniel.
However, it doesn’t mean that you can’t own a Cocker Spaniel. People’s immune systems are triggered by various allergens meaning that allergic reactions have more to do with an individual dog than a certain breed. If you suffer from an allergy, you should speak to your doctor before getting a dog. A professional can assess your symptoms and prescribe medication if necessary.
Coat
Cocker Spaniels have a feathery coat that comes in various colors such as brown, tan, black, white, tri-color and silver. Studies discovered that the saliva of dogs has a higher possibility of triggering allergic reactions than dander. Cocker Spaniels have fewprotein-stained antigens in their dander, but they are not considered hypoallergenic.
This breed has a double coat with a soft undercoat. Some Cocker Spaniels will shed more than others while others will shed less and need only to be brushed once or twice a week to keep their coat smooth and shiny. ExpectCocker Spaniels to shed more in the fall and spring.
Reasons for Excessive Shedding
Shedding allows the new healthier coat to grow. One of the reasons for shedding is hormonal changes, which are influenced by the decrease and increase in the number of daylight hours.Cocker Spaniels shed their undercoat in the spring to prepare them for the new season. There are also other reasons why your dog is shedding excessively, including skin problems and age.
OlderCocker Spaniels are susceptible to hypothyroidism, a health problem that could lead to fur deficiency. This breed is also susceptible to skin problems that could cause hair loss. Poor diet and food allergies can also lead to hair loss. If your Cocker Spaniel is shedding excessively, it is best that you speak to his vet about it.
Grooming
Cocker Spaniels need intensive grooming. If you want to grow their coat tofloor length, you should brush it every day to prevent it from getting matted and tangled. In case the coat is trimmed, you only need to brush them every 3 days unless it is shedding season or they are dirty. You should use a slicker brush to remove loose hair.
Brushing not only eliminatesdead hairs, but also improves the blood flow in the skin tissues. This process stimulates hair follicles. Pick tangles and mats apart with your fingers.
This breed also needs to be bathed on a regular basis but you should not use your own shampoo. Buy a high-quality shampoo for dogs. Rinse your dog thoroughly as soap residue can damage their coat and cause skin irritation. Use a blow dryer to dry their coat properly.
Pay attention to their ears because this breed is susceptible to ear infections. Make sure that their ears are dried carefully. Cocker Spaniels are prone to various skin issues, so don’t forget to check for inflamed spots after giving them a bath.
Tips to Minimize Cocker Spaniels Shedding
Aside from regular bathing and grooming, you should also wash your dog’s plush toys,beds and blankets with hot water to reduce the amount of allergens in your home. Clean carpets and dust hard surfaces on a regular basis. Don’t let your dog sleep in your bed or your sheets will be covered with their dander, saliva and hair. You may also want to throw away heavy curtains andold carpets that can trap dander. HEPA filters can reduce the amount of airborne allergens as well.
Aside from cleaning your home, you should also pay attention to your dog’s diet. Avoid cheap food that contains grains and corn. Go for natural food like meat porridge. Give them vitamin supplements only twice a year. Dogs that have food sensitivities or allergies may shed a lot due to their diet.
It’s best to talk to the vet about your dog’s diet, so you can make the necessary changes. You can add flaxseed oil or olive oil to their food because these oils have omega-3 fatty acids that can help improve the condition of their coat and stop excessive shedding. Don’t forget to give your Cocker Spaniel clean water. Dehydration causes dry skin, which can lead to excessiveshedding.
Dogs that have ticks and fleas scratch a lot, which can lead to severe shedding. Anti-flea collars,protectivetopical liquids, sprays and special shampoos are available. If you want to use an anti-flea topical liquid, you have to apply it 4 to 5 days after your dog was bathed. Follow these simple rules and you can minimize your pet’s shedding.
