Best Dog Food for Cocker Spaniels in 2024
Cocker Spaniels have won hearts worldwide, perhaps thanks to Lady’s fluffy adventure with Tramp. The 1955 Disney flick stole the show and remains a cherished classic. Since that time, these pups have found a special place in the lives of folks everywhere.
This breed is also – undeniably – adorable, boasting a soft and silky coat that comes in many color combinations. Finding the right dog foods for Cocker Spaniels requires some research, but there are several great options available out there.
Table of Contents
To create the list below we have scoured the internet, drawing on a wealth of customer reviews, expert advice and veterinary opinions to determine which are the best Cocker Spaniel dog food options. Learn more about our 10 point inspection checklist. There will be something for everyone listed below, whether you need to find a puppy food, an adult dog food, senior food or something to satisfy the limited ingredient diet needed by dogs prone to allergies.
Best Dog Food for Cocker Spaniels
1. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Cocker Spaniel Adult
This Royal Canin dry food is a breed-specific adult food for Cocker Spaniels, designed to meet all the nutritional needs of this adorable dog breed. The benefits of a breed-specific food are that every ingredient has been added with a purpose and with the understanding that every breed is different.
The adult Cocker Spaniel is generally prone to weight gain. An unhealthy weight can put adult dogs at additional risk from joint issues, diabetes, heart diseases and more. This Cocker Spaniel dog food has balanced levels of protein, fiber and carbohydrates to keep your furry and long-eared friend at a healthy weight.
The kibble itself is shaped to fit a Cocker Spaniel’s mouth perfectly and it promotes oral health thanks to its crunch, which helps to clean tartar build-up. That’s one characteristic dry dog food as over other types of food. The hard surface can scrape your dog’s teeth to eliminate plaque. EPA and DHA from the fish or salmon oil, along with taurine, promote a healthy heart.
Why We Like It – Cocker Spaniels are prone to heart disease and this breed-specific recipe has taurine and the fatty acids EPA and DHA to promote good cardiac health. The best dog food for Cocker Spaniels is a food that is made specifically for the breed, making this an ideal option for your Cocker Spaniel.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 3,661 kcal/kg, 304 kcal/cup |
| Crude Protein | 23.0% min |
| Crude Fat | 12.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 3.3.0% max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
Pros:
+ Wholesome protein sources promotes lean muscle growth and a healthy weight.
+ Fatty acids for improved skin and coat quality.
+ Contains good levels of taurine and DHA for cardiac health.
+ Recommended for Cocker Spaniels over the age of 12 months.
Cons:
– A little hard to chew for older dogs
Lean protein sources also ensure this Cocker Spaniel adult dry food provides all of the protein your dog needs to build muscle mass without gaining unnecessary weight.
Related: Royal Canin Dog Food Review
2. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult 11+ For Senior Dogs
An old Cocker Spaniel has different nutritional needs to younger Cocker Spaniels. The older they get, the more important it becomes to make sure they are comfortable and well cared for. Older breeds are also more prone to health conditions such as hip dysplasia. This dog food by Hill’s Science Diet is the best dry dog food for Cocker Spaniels over the age of 11. It has quality ingredients to support bone and joint health to keep your Cocker Spaniels moving effortlessly for as long as possible.
Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil such as salmon are combined with natural ingredients and a healthy blend of antioxidants to give this Cocker Spaniel dog food everything your old friend will need to continue living life to the fullest. Growing old should not equal life in pain for our dogs and with this kibble, you will know that you are doing your best to give your furry friend what he or she deserves.
Why We Like It – This food is specifically formulated to give older Cocker Spaniels everything they need to thrive well into their later years. Omega fatty acids in this dry food protect their senior brain and the mineral blend works to maintain a healthy heart.
This recipe has all the nutrients a dog needs to age gracefully and tastes of real chicken and brown rice. Brown rice is also high in fiber which helps to keep the food easy to digest.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 371 kcal/cup |
| Crude Protein | 18.0% min |
| Crude Fat | 11.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.0% max |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.9% min |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 3.0% min |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Vitamin E | 600 IU/kg min |
Pros:
+ Promotes stronger bones and joints.
+ Contains minerals essential for heart and kidney health.
+ Contains Omega 3 fatty acids from natural oil from salmon and other fish.
+ Perfect for Cocker Spaniels over the age of 11.
Related: Hill’s Science Diet Dog Food Review
3. Royal Canin Medium Sensitive Digestion Dry Dog Food
Looking for the best dog food for a Cocker Spaniel with allergies? This is likely it! Perhaps you have already tried Royal Canin’s breed-specific food for adult dogs without good results and your Cocker Spaniel has continued to itch and suffer the consequences of their food allergy. If so, Royal Canin Medium Sensitive Digestion Dry Dog Food could be a better option. This limited ingredient diet dry food is designed to give your pet the smallest chance of falling afoul of anything that will upset their sensitive body.
Prebiotics are used to balance the intestinal flora, making sure this food is easy to digest. This food for sensitive Cocker Spaniels also has a regulated protein content from quality sources for your pet.
This recipe is perfect for Cocker Spaniel allergies when regular dog foods aren’t working and it is made with an adapted recipe that is just as nutritious as any other premium dog food.
Why We Like It – It is true what they say, Royal Canin has a dog food for all circumstances, even the often tricky situation of Cocker Spaniel food allergies is no match for this blend! Even the digestion will receive support with the extra prebiotics included in the recipe.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 3,823 kcal/kg, 321 kcal/cup |
| Crude Protein | 23.0% min |
| Crude Fat | 16.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 3.7% max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
Pros:
+ Quality protein from identified sources.
+ Prebiotics ensure this pet food is easy to digest.
+ Supports a healthy skin and coat.
+ Adapted kibble size for easy chewing.
4. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw
It is no secret that Cocker Spaniels can be picky eaters at times. Perhaps you are struggling to find a dog food your pup will eat? If so, this delicious and freeze-dried dog food topping called Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw might be the solution to your problem, as it can be added to any kibble or wet food to make it more appealing.
The process of freeze-drying means that it is packed with nutrients and flavor and it includes no added hormones or antibiotics. It is naturally rich in vitamins and minerals to help boost the immune system and prevent hip dysplasia, and it is 100% grain-free and free from unnecessary fillers.
For the best results, pair with a grain-free recipe. By avoiding filler ingredients like corn, wheat or soy, you can help to ensure your dog doesn’t suffer from any unnecessary weight gain or become plagued by health issues such as ear infections.
Why We Like It – With a healthy, natural, and delicious dog food topper like this, you won’t have to change your kibble every time your picky and self-proclaimed royal Cocker Spaniel gets bored of the food he or she is being fed! The freeze-dried bits add extra taste and texture that can spice up otherwise bland dry dog food.
The grain-free recipe ensures that all this additional, alluring taste comes without the risk of health complications. The protein content in this topper also helps to build lean muscle.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 5,100 kcal/kg, 58 kcal/ 1/4 cup |
| Crude Protein | 40.0% min |
| Crude Fat | 36.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 5.0% max |
| Moisture | 5.0% max |
Pros:
+ Food topping for picky eaters.
+ No preservatives, hormones or antibiotics.
+ Made with real, high-protein turkey meat.
+ Freeze-dried and full of nutrients.
Cons:
– Could have been formulated with more nutrients
5. Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet
A contender for the title of ‘Best food for Cocker Spaniel skin allergies’ is this limited ingredient kibble from Blue Buffalo! All foods from this brand utilize the coveted Blue Buffalo life protection formula to ensure that your dog is being fed only the very best in natural, grain-free ingredients, such the high-quality salmon contained in the pack pictured above.
This recipe is made with only one animal protein source per recipe to avoid having to expose your sensitive pup to more food items than is necessary. If your dog is allergic to a specific type of protein, the Blue Buffalo life protection formula is also available in turkey, lamb or duck, as well as salmon. It is likely the best dog food for Spaniels with allergies, especially if you prefer to feed a grain-free diet.
No grains, soy, wheat or corn can be found among the ingredients. The first listed ingredient is deboned meat (salmon, turkey, lamb or duck) for protein. The brand has chosen to pass on chicken and egg, which are both known to cause allergies in some dogs. All of this helps to make it a Cocker Spaniel food which even dogs with severe food allergies will likely be able to enjoy.
Why We Like It – This wholesome and allergy-friendly dog food is free from known irritants like chicken, grains, white potato and more. It is one of the best Cocker Spaniel diets due to its natural ingredients and added vitamins and minerals.
Furthermore, if you own a fussy eater, you can choose between salmon, duck, turkey or lamb varieties for all your protein content needs. Remember to go for duck or turkey if your dog is extra sensitive and allergic.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 3,476 kcal/kg, 349 kcal/cup |
| Crude Protein | 20.0% min |
| Crude Fat | 12.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 6.0% max |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 1.0% min |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.0% min |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Vitamin E | 300 IU/kg min |
Pros:
+ Limited ingredient recipe.
+ First listed ingredient is meat protein, with a choice of salmon, turkey, lamb or duck.
+ Suitable for dogs with allergies.
+ Free from grains, wheat and soy.
Cons:
– Certain recipes may have had recalls
6. Rachael Ray Nutrish Natural Dry Dog Food
Say no to artificial flavors, preservatives and colors with this natural recipe from Rachael Ray’s own kitchen. Every ingredient is added with a specific purpose to ensure that you aren’t feeding your Cocker Spaniel any fattening and nutritionally-void fillers. Rachael Ray vows to only use fresh meat for the food’s protein source and vegetables which she herself would want to use in her cooking, because just like us – she believes our fur friends deserve the absolute best. If you want to feed your Cocker Spaniel a great, human-grade food, look no further than Rachael Ray’s unique blend.
For a Cocker Spaniel, the natural sources of antioxidants, Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins are ideal for growing a healthy and shiny coat. Chicken meal in the recipe is a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin to protect your dog’s joints and bones. The fiber sources contained in each pack will also help your furry friend feel fuller for longer. Cocker Spaniels are prone to weight gain and by allowing them to feel fuller with less you reduce the risk of your Cocker Spaniel becoming fat and suffering from those accompanying health issues.
Why We Like It – Rachael Ray offers premium dog nutrition at a lower price, making this the best dog food for Cocker Spaniel owners with a limited budget. We trust her with human recipes, so we can only expect the dog food recipes to be equally tasty.
The recipe is jam-packed with nutritious ingredients such as salmon, which provide all the vitamins and minerals your dogs need to keep their bodies optimized at a healthy weight and their organs ticking over nicely. With Rachael Ray’s personal pledge, you never need to risk feeding your beloved animal something that wouldn’t be able to be consumed by a human being.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 3508 kcal/kg, 326 kcal/cup |
| Crude Protein | 25.0% min |
| Crude Fat | 14.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 4.0% max |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Calcium | 1.2% min |
| Vitamin E | 75 IU/kg min |
Pros:
+ Contains salmon for fatty acids and other ingredients with vitamins perfect for skin and coat health.
+ Natural sources of glucosamine and chondroitin help protect bones and joints.
+ Profits are donated to animal rescue.
+ Free from animal by-products.
7. Nature’s Recipe Senior Lamb Meal & Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
The first ingredient in this kibble is lamb meal, which contains a much higher percentage of actual protein compared to fresh meat, due to the water content having already been removed. Lamb meal is also a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin which help to maintain healthy bones and joints. There are also no animal by-products added to the recipe, nor any wheat, soy, corn or other low-nutrition fillers – only the best for your Cocker Spaniels.
Beet Pulp fiber has also been added to aid with digestion and to boost the metabolism, something which can help keep your golden oldie at a steady and healthy weight. As if this wasn’t enough, the recipe has also been tailored to promote the continued development of lean muscle and to aid the immune system.
It can be hard to find the best food for Cocker Spaniel seniors, but Nature’s Recipe has created this product designed especially for our aging dogs.
Why We Like It – This recipe is tailored to the nutritional needs of your senior Cocker Spaniel. It contains lean protein ingredients, as well as a whole host of other vitamin-rich ingredients to ensure that your pet will enjoy a peaceful and pain-free later life.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 3,500 kcal/kg, 338 kcal/cup |
| Crude Protein | 22% min |
| Crude Fat | 10.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 5.0% max |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.17% min |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 1.3% min |
| Moisture | 10% max |
| Calcium | 1.0% min |
| Vitamin E | 125 IU/kg min |
Pros:
+ High in quality protein.
+ Promotes lean muscles.
+ Contains high-fiber ingredients for digestive health.
+ Promotes a stronger immune system to help your aging canine fight disease.
Cons:
– Not grain-free for those that are allergic
8. Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Adult Dry Dog Food
Blue Buffalo allow you to choose between beef, chicken and lamb, depending on what your Cocker Spaniel likes the best. See for yourself how this wholesome and grain-free diet gives your furry baby all the energy needed for a full day of fun and play. Blue Buffalo has great taste, but under the surface, within the details they also offer excellent nutrition.
The Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids in this recipe help to keep your Cocker Spaniel’s coat shiny and are also beneficial for brain function and reducing the symptoms of skin allergies. This food also boasts a unique feature which they call LifeSource Bits – tiny round pellets mixed in with the kibble which are full of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and taste great.
Why We Like It – This is one of Blue Buffalo’s highest-rated products, due to being grain-free. It is an excellent option for Cocker Spaniels all ages. The added lifesource bits make the kibble taste better, catering to those picky eaters we have come to know Cocker Spaniels to be.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 3,583 kcal/kg, 373 kcal/cup |
| Crude Protein | 24.0% min |
| Crude Fat | 14.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 6.0% max |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.5% min |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 2.5% min |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Calcium | 1.0% min |
Pros:
+ Rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids
+ Three types of meat protein to choose from and is grain-free
+ Exclusive LifeSource Bits.
+ Unique blend of antioxidants.
Cons:
– Packaging could have some improvements
9. Wellness Complete Health Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food
This dry food is grain-free and comes complete with deboned chicken, turkey and whitefish. As we mentioned, grain-free dry dog foods can help boost bowel support. The protein sources listed are complemented by a combination of essential vitamins and minerals. This kibble rates highly in a whole host of dog food for Cocker Spaniel reviews. Wellness is known for its nutritious and natural dog food products and this dry delight is no exception.
Wellness Core guarantees a high protein content by skipping low-quality ingredients like animal by-products, corn and soy so that you get only the best for your beloved Cocker Spaniels. The production is carefully supervised to make sure that each bag meets the company’s high standards and the food is made and packed in the United States.
Why We Like It – Wellness is somewhat pricier than other products for Cocker Spaniels, but this blend is proven to be worth every penny! Natural ingredients and healthy levels of Omega-3 make it an ideal kibble for long-haired dogs like the Cocker Spaniel.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 3,662 kcal/kg or 494 kcal/cup |
| Crude Protein | 32.0% min |
| Crude Fat | 16.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 5.5% max |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 1.00% min |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 3.5% min |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
| Vitamin E | 200 IU/kg min |
Pros:
+ Only high-quality ingredients.
+ Real turkey meat protein listed first.
+ With guaranteed levels of Omega-3.
+ Made in the United States.
Cons:
– A little bit pricey than others
Related: Wellness Core Dog Food Review
10. Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein Grain Free
This is a product line from Blue Buffalo which is widely considered to be one of the best kibble products currently available, so there is no question about it being an excellent option for your Cocker Spaniel! Real meat protein is listed among the first ingredients and an impressive collection of wholesome vegetables, berries and legumes ensure a huge range of complementary vitamins and minerals.
There are plenty of recipes available to help you find a flavor that will appeal to your beloved dog. One of the best parts is the healthy lifesource bits, which are a curated blend of healthy vitamins, antioxidants and minerals included by the brand.
There are no grains or fillers, artificial colors, flavors or preservatives are included in the pack. If you are looking for the best puppy food for Cocker Spaniels, they also offer a reliable and healthy line for puppies and young dogs.
Why We Like It – We may have listed this product last, but it is one of the best Cocker Spaniel dog food options you are going to find, thanks to the high protein content and the natural ingredients used.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 3,599 kcal/kg, 416 kcal/cup |
| Crude Protein | 34.0% min |
| Crude Fat | 15.0% min |
| Crude Fiber | 6.0% max |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 0.5% min |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 3.0% min |
| Moisture | 10.0% max |
Pros:
+ Small and easy-to-chew kibble.
+ Natural source of antioxidants.
+ With delicious LifeSource Bits.
+ Selected by holistic veterinarians.
Cons:
– A little bit pricey than others
11. Wild Earth Dog Food
Our number one choice of best dog foods for Cocker Spaniels goes to the excellent company Wild Earth. This company offers an extremely high-quality product that is kind to your wallet, your Cocker Spaniels and the earth.
Wild Earth only uses the very best, sustainable ingredients to ensure that your dog gets all of the tailored nutrition they need. They understand that dogs are omnivores and so include plenty of high-quality fruits and vegetables alongside specially selected meats to ensure a high protein content that is achieved in a sustainable way. You’ll find no meat or protein by-products or inferior products like corn gluten meal here, only ingredients specially selected for their high content of minerals and vitamins.
What’s more, our choice of the best food for Spaniel owners is delivered straight to your door. It really couldn’t be more convenient.
Nutrition Information:
| Caloric Content | 3557 kcal/kg 333 kcal/cup |
| Crude Protein | 31% min |
| Crude Fat | 10.5% min |
| Crude Fiber | 5% max |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 1.0% min |
| Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 3.0% min |
| Moisture | 10% max |
Why We Like It – Our choice of best dog food for Cocker Spaniels is an all-around ideal meal for your pet. The special blend of fruits and vegetables works alongside ethically sourced meat to ensure a high protein content. These dog foods are convenient, environmentally friendly and packed full of health benefits.
Pros:
+ Developed by veterinarians with ample amounts of fruits and vegetables.
+ Ecologically sustainable without compromising on protein content.
+ Delivered straight to your door.
+ 100% money-back guarantee.
Cons:
– May have additional price increases at times
– Results will depend on your dog’s taste preference
How We Picked the Best Dog Food for Cocker Spaniels
When deciding the best dog food brands for Cocker Spaniels, there are a whole host of factors to be considered. You need to ensure that ingredient content is designed for the nutritional needs of your dog, not for the profit of the dog food company.
Go Grain-Free if Possible
Grain-free dry dog food can be very beneficial to Cocker Spaniels and Cocker Spaniel puppies because it helps to eliminate bowel problems. If you feel your sporting dog is suffering from excessive gas, loose stools, or any skin issues, going with grain-free dry dog food can help.
No Fillers
We always avoid fillers like corn, wheat or soy to name a few. Fillers do exactly what their name suggests. They are used to “fill the space” and replace better and higher-quality ingredients all in an effort to cut costs for the manufacturer. Fillers are not as nutritious and can lead to health issues for your Cocker Spaniel puppies over time. For Cocker Spaniels and other dogs with drooping ears, fillers can lead to ear infections.
Look at the First Ingredients
High-quality dog foods should contain meat or fish protein as their first ingredient to ensure a solid protein source for all your dog’s growth needs and to match their activity levels. Whole ingredients from clearly labeled animal ingredients are preferred.
Extra Supplements
We made sure to include dog foods that have extra minerals and vitamins which help to maintain a healthy immune system, digestive system and maintain your dog’s skin and coat. DHA is an example of a supplement that can increase cardiac health and lower heart health problems.
Omega fatty acids contained in your dog’s ingredient diet also help ensure healthy cognitive development. It may also be a good idea to look for foods that contain a natural source of glucosamine and chondroitin, such as protein meat meals like chicken meal or salmon meal.
These help to maintain healthy joints and help prevent conditions like hip dysplasia which plague older dogs and patellar luxation. Patellar luxation is an issue of dislocating joints, which typically happen in smaller dogs.
With all this in mind, you are ready to find out the best food for Cocker Spaniels.
Dog Food for Cocker Spaniels Buyers Guide
It is almost impossible to refrain from running up to a Cocker Spaniel and throwing your arms around them – that is how cute they are! Those large eyes, long ears and flowing and soft coat, combined with their incredibly friendly and loving personality, makes the Cocker Spaniel a breed that is easy to love.
As cute as they are, they also require great care and healthy nutrition, just like any other dog. For a Cocker Spaniel owner, it is important to remember that this is a breed that will require quite a lot of grooming – either done by you or by a professional groomer – so it is not a dog for people who are not interested in this.
One way to make the grooming process easier is by providing high-quality dog food, as good nutrition also shows on the outside by making the coat shinier and easier to comb through. But what do Cocker Spaniels like to eat and what is the best dog food for Cocker Spaniels? There are a few things to consider to make sure you make the best decision possible for your four-legged friend.
Energy
The average Cocker Spaniel is a very happy, active and surprisingly agile dog, so it is important to choose a dog food product that provides them with the energy they need to keep up with you and your family. Energy comes from protein, so what you want to find in your kibble or wet food is a good source of this – preferably from quality meat. It doesn’t matter if you are looking for the best food for Cocker Spaniel puppy dogs, for adult Cocker Spaniels or for seniors – they all need protein to thrive.
A nutritious and balanced meal will also result in an active and happy pup. Enough fruits and vegetables such as sweet potato and blueberries in dry or wet food can greatly boost the recipe.
Avoid animal by-products and look for real meat listed first in the ingredient list, possibly followed by another meat source or meat meal. This will usually indicate a high-quality product with a satisfying protein content.
If your Cocker Spaniel has a sensitive stomach or if he or she is prone to food allergies, pick a dog food with a mild protein source such as lamb or turkey or go with a limited ingredient recipe where only one animal protein source is used.
Digestion
Cocker Spaniels are often prone to upset stomachs and certain dietary restrictions and no dog should have to walk around feeling ill. Signs of an upset stomach are loose stools, diarrhea, frequent vomiting or walking with their back arched. These are all issues that can often be resolved with the right dog food. Probiotics and prebiotics are great for digestion and are likely to help your Cocker Spaniel’s metabolism to start working more effectively.
This is also true for overweight dogs who need help losing a few pounds, so if this is the case, make sure to look for dog food with an added prebiotic ingredient and/or other digestive enzymes. If your dog has severe food allergies or frequent stomach issues, you might want to choose a product designed to suit dogs with a sensitive gut.
Skin & Coat
A well-kept Cocker Spaniel coat is just gorgeous and seeing it flow in the wind as your dog runs around and plays is one of the many things that make people all over the planet fall in love with this breed. Omega fatty acids are the key to a luxurious coat, healthier skin and even joint support.
Your dog’s diet will have a direct effect on how the coat looks, so make sure your chosen kibble has plenty of antioxidants, fatty acids (such as Omega-3 and Omega-6) and minerals for improved coat health. Fishy ingredients such as salmon or salmon meal are great natural sources of these fatty acids. Salmon meal, like omega fatty acids also has the added benefit of helping to protect your Cocker Spaniel’s joints. Without fish oils, salmon meal can really help.
Even if your dog doesn’t get enough omega fatty acids from even the best dog foods, you can easily find supplemental ingredients available on the market.
If you follow this guidance, it will be easier to look after your Cocker Spaniel’s coat. However, this is no full substitute for regular grooming to make sure you care for your dog inside and out. Ingredients which improve coat quality will generally also be great for your dog’s skin, which is highly beneficial for dogs with skin allergies.
Best food for a senior Cocker Spaniel?
There are countless options for Cocker Spaniels of all ages, but if your dog is over 7 years old, it will be beneficial to switch over to senior dog food.
Consider ‘Nature’s Recipe Senior Lamb Meal & Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food’ if you want your aging Cocker Spaniel to eat a healthy and nutritious dog food made for senior dogs.
As your dog ages, he or she will need less protein, calories and overall energy as the activity levels decrease. It’s not uncommon for a senior dog to be much calmer over time. As your dog enters his later years, more supplements will be more helpful than carbohydrates. Senior dog recipes are tailored to meet the needs of an aging dog, so it’s crucial for a dog parent to swap recipes after the age of 7.
How many times per day to feed a Cocker Spaniel?
This will always depend on the specific dog, but it is recommended to feed an adult dog at least twice a day, to avoid them gulping down the food at their one mealtime. Eating too fast can cause stomach health problems and the life-threatening condition bloat, so if your Cocker Spaniel is a fast eater you might even want to consider splitting their daily dog food quantity into several smaller portions.
Feeding small amounts throughout the day will keep your dog feeling full and satisfied, but if you prefer – just stick to feeding twice daily.
For puppies, the feeding schedule will be much more frequent. Puppies need a smaller amount of food fed to them more often throughout the day. You’re looking at anywhere between 3 to 4 meals spaced out every 2 to 3 hours.
Many factors will impact how much your Cocker Spaniel eats, from his health condition to even the weather. You will notice a decrease in your dog’s appetite when the temperatures rise. Hot summer months will leave your dog feeling lazy and lethargic, so don’t be alarmed if he tends to eat much less.
How much food should a Cocker Spaniel eat?
The quantity of food you give to your four-legged friend will depend on the quality of the product, how much protein it contains and whether it uses fillers. It will also depend on your dog’s weight, size, energy level and life stage.
This is why it is important to follow the guidelines on the packaging and to ask a veterinarian for help if you feel the recommended amount isn’t ideal for your dog. Even dogs with the same weight and size and life stage may need different amounts depending on the activity level.
A good way to judge is to go by the packaging and if your dog finishes the food within 15 minutes and is pining for more, then give your dog a little bit more to gauge the right amount. If your dog is unable to finish the food, then he may be a Cocker Spaniel that doesn’t need as much to meet his energy output.
The nutritional density of a recipe will also impact how much your Cocker Spaniel eats. A recipe that is high in nutrition will fill up your dog faster. So it’s not necessarily that your dog is eating less, it’s just that he is consuming higher-quality food.
Conclusion
All dogs need and deserve a healthy and nutritious diet and the Cocker Spaniel is no exception to this rule. A portion of high-quality dog food might cost a little more than the typical grocery store brands, but whatever additional money you end up spending is money you will be saving on veterinary costs.
A healthy diet sets your Cocker Spaniel up for long life without serious health complications. It will keep them strong and disease-resistant. Good nutrition will also show on the outside with a shinier coat, clearer eyes and better oral health.
Do your Cocker Spaniels a favor and choose a brand and a product that give them the nutrients they deserve. Give your vet a visit just to determine if your Cocker Spaniel requires any special treatment. Your vet will have a good idea of your dog’s health history. For a more thorough picture, you can also ask the breeder about any genetic health concerns.
Expert Tip
When switching from one dog food to another, always do so slowly and gradually. Add a small amount of the new ingredients on the first day and then increase it little by little over the next few days to avoid an upset stomach.
Did You Know?
Two dogs were brought over to America on the Mayflower. One was a large and impressive-looking Mastiff and the other was a Spaniel. It is unclear what type of Spaniel it was, but it is possible that the first Cocker Spaniel (or one of its forefathers) came to the United States on this legendary ship.
