Do you own a cute and adorable Cocker Spaniel puppy? Well….as a responsible dog owner you ought to know everything…even small and trifle…things about your dog.
As for Cocker Spaniel commonly asked questions:
- Do Cocker Spaniels shed a lot?
- Does English Cocker Spaniel shed a lot compared to American cocker Spaniel?
- Are Cocker spaniels Hypoallergenic?
- How to control Cocker Spaniel shedding?
Let us answer all your questions and help to understand your Cocker Spaniel dog in a better way.
Cocker Spaniels are companion dog breeds. They are the smallest member of sporting dog breeds. This breed is known for its well-balanced sturdy body, thick luxuriant coat, and handsome face.
Cocker Spaniels are not only handsome-faced but also have a cheerful and sweet temperament. Their big, dark eyes and sweet expressions can easily melt your heart and it is no surprise that they have been popular choices among Americans.
Characteristics of this dog breed
- They are usually 14-15 inches tall and can weigh around 24-28 pounds.
- They come in different colors Including Black, Liver/Brown, And Red/Golden. Multi-Color (Two Or More Solid Colors) Are White With Red, Black, Or Liver.
- They have a silky coat that requires extensive care and grooming.
- These gentle, loving pets are ideal for a family with children, and even for an elderly person.
- There are ideal for apartment-dwellers, or small houses.
- They are always to please his family and like to stay close to them.
- They have a soft personality, therefore you have to be gentle around them and use easy training methods for them.
- Though they are companion breeds they retain their hunting instinct and can sometimes chase small animals or birds.
- They are vocal so train them to follow your “Quiet” command.
Do Cocker Spaniels shed?
Yes, they shed moderately.
Cocker Spaniels have a double cat and it sheds moderately but sheds more during shedding season (once or twice a year).
Let us, first of all, understand more about their coat….
Cocker Spaniels Coat
Cocker Spaniels have a double coat: Inner Coat and Outer Coat.
- The outer Coat is short around the head and longer on the rest of the body.
- Inner or undercoat is short and dense. It protects Cockers from extreme climatic conditions.
- Undercoat sheds much than an outer coat, but it depends on which cocker spaniels you have.
- They shed heavily twice a year during spring and autumn.
Does English Cocker Spaniel shed a lot compared to American cocker Spaniel?
English cocker spaniel generally requires less maintenance than an American cocker spaniel. But as far as shedding there is nothing much difference between them.
Though American Cocker spaniels have delicate coats which means you have to be extra careful while grooming them.
Though they both are alike, there are some differences that you can spot.
– English Cocker Spaniels are shorter, have short necks, have a large snout, and have shorter coats.
– Whereas, American Cocker Spaniels a bit taller, have longer necks, have a shorter snout, and long coats.
How much a Cocker Spaniels shed?
Cocker spaniels shed moderately. They shed the same amount of hairs as King Charles Spaniels or other spaniels. But not as much as saint Bernard or Labrador retriever.
All Cocker Spaniels sheds but it depends on how often your brush or bathe them. Also, dogs that spend more time out are prone to shed higher than others.
Are Cocker spaniels Hypoallergenic?
No, Cocker spaniels are not hypoallergenic. The term hypoallergenic is used for dog breeds that do not shed much.
There is no such hypoallergenic dog. Though Dog produces allergens in their saliva, fur, or dander.
Therefore if you are allergic, then despite all cuteness this Breed is not for you.
How to control Cocker Spaniel shedding?
You can surely reduce your Cocker spaniels shedding by proper and optimized diet, and regular grooming.
Poor Nutrition can lead to heavy shedding in your Cocker Spaniel Dog. Proper nutrition can reduce the possibility of excessive shedding and also improve his coat. A healthy cocker spaniel has stronger hair follicles which mean lower shedding.
Proper Brushing can also reduce shedding. Brushing naturally spreads the natural oils of your Spaniels skin and improves the condition of their coat. Also, dead and old hairs are removed in the process which means your furniture, the floor is saved.
Always be gentle while brushing him…remember their soft heart…Don’t scare them in the process.
You can also use gentle shampoos on your Cocker Spaniel.
Even after all this if you are still facing extensive shedding then contact your veterinarian as your Spaniels puppy could have developed some skin allergy or fleas.
Finally, A cocker spaniel is bound to shed Therefore if you think you cannot handle his furs or this extensive care and grooming this breed is not for you.
