2007-02-10 11:06:00 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Dogs
I had a Cocker years ago, so in addition to all the good advice that's already up there ...
Cockers are prone to not only ear infections, but food allergies, skin issues, and often thyroid problems. If you notice any signs of skin/ear/eye/nose irritation, see the vet for an exam and ask about trying to test for food allergies. I've seen so many cases of $1000s in vet bills for something as simple as a food allergy.
For awhile, Cockers had very BAD temperaments (over-breeding), but seem to be doing much better in recent years. The coat/skin is a LOT of maintenance. Regular, frequent trips to the groomer are a must. Also, be sure to buy ear cleaner, a slicker brush, metal comb, and a good coat-conditioning spray. Ask your groomer to show you how to keep the ears clean and coat thoroughly brushed out between visits.
Also, Cockers are sporting dogs and love to be exercised. Be prepared to take him/her for some long walks, lots of games of fetch, or look into (if you have one near you and are financially able) a good Doggy Day Camp facility near you. One the comes to mind is Best Friends Pet Care, if there is a location near you.
2007-02-10 11:49:03 · answer #1 · answered by Eddie S 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First of all congrats!I had a beautiful cocker his name was Bobby.The neighborhood called him Bob the dog and he was loved by all who new him.I can tell you this for sure like most pure breds the cocker Spaniel is highly allergic to corn.The dog food in grocery stores list (corn) as the first ingredient.So buy a good quality dog food at a pet store that does not have corn.I was told this by my groomer because when I adopted Bob he scratched constantly,and I had to change his diet completely.I had to grind fresh lean meat such as steak and veggies.carrots,beets.potatos .Now it took awhile about 3 weeks, but it did the job.He then was able to eat a quality dry food with some can food such as wellness or Rocky Mountain Rainbow is real good has great veggies already in it.Also do not feed them people food it's very bad for them to get over weight,wears on the heart.Also keep the ears and eyes clean, there pron to infection.Bob enjoyed getting his face washed.Brush your dog they love that.Enjoy your new baby there very special.P.S Do not give your dog a Greene this is a edible mint chew, They have caused many problems with dogs intestines.Good Luck Hope this helps
2007-02-10 20:26:13 · answer #2 · answered by Alexis 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Use positive training methods. You can get books and CD on positive training.
Crate train your dog.
Get your puppy spayed/neutered when he/she is 6 months old. There are way too many animals that will never find a good home. You can read about the benefits of spaying/neutering your pet here: http://www.mypetnanny.info/Link_Pages/Lost_Found.htm
2007-02-10 19:09:34 · answer #3 · answered by Kamah 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Clean it's ears regularly, they get very smelly,Have it vaccinated and wormed.Feed a good quality dog food.And give it plenty of exercise and a warm bed and lots of love and discipline.
2007-02-10 19:15:08 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
your reputable breeder should have gone over this 100 times already with you..... if you didn't use a reputable breeder sorry
2007-02-10 19:55:06 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
as it gets older, long earred dogs tend to get ear infections....
2007-02-10 19:12:38 · answer #6 · answered by Renee 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
start bringing it to the groomer,,,
2007-02-10 19:17:15 · answer #7 · answered by I â?¥ my doberman 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋