Health Issues in Cocker Spaniels and How to Prevent Them

Cocker Spaniels are well-known for their adorable appearances. Those mesmerizing eyes, elegant coats, and soft and long ears will make the Spaniels one of the sweetest dogs in existence today. However, these pups have the most easy-going and happy personalities, making them a joyous addition to a home. Whenever you consider getting a Cocker Spaniel or have one already, it is essential to know that they are identical to numerous other dog breeds and prone to health issues. Our post today will help you identify the key health issues encountered by the Cocker Spaniels and how you can treat and prevent them from happening.

Top Health Issues & Preventive Measures for Cocker Spaniels

Let us have a look at the top health issues face by Cocker Spaniels and their treatment

Ear Problems

The longer ears of Cocker Spaniels are more than just highly adorable and unique. They serve the most distinguished operation for any gundog, directing the smells out of the surroundings to their noises. Although these are the dogs that need not head out chasing for the next meal any longer with those impressive ears that retain the charms of the Cocker however, they come with their issues. There are numerous ear issues that pet owners come across that should be identified. However, odd objects or grass seeds end up leading to an earache of a canine.

However, such ear issues are common across numerous breeds with the owners who can help minimize the scope for this common health-related issue among the Cocker Spaniels impacting their pet. Here, you have to ensure to keep the ears of your dog clean while inspecting them regularly. As soon there are any unusual signs like odd smells or discharges, head out right to the vet for assistance and advice.

Canine Hip Dysplasia

Numerous small dog breeds are well-known for their genetic predisposition to the development of issues like hip dysplasia. This is a notable condition where ball-and-socket hip joints develop abnormally and never fit together the way they intend to, leading to hip dislocation. You may find your dog limping, refusing to take daily walks, or refusing to play their favorite game, which you will find in online training programs.

These are the signs leading to the issues related to the hip and should get inspected by the vet sooner. Hip dysplasia is considered a common option among the bigger canines, mainly those that are bigger compared to the medium-sized Cocker Spaniel with different dog breeds and sizes that get impacts. Here you have to contact your vet immediately to identify such signs in your dog. Hip dysplasia among the canines is incurable; however, it can be effectively managed with the help of a well-balanced diet, subtle exercises, and therapy.

Luxating Patella

Another potential health issue in Cocker Spaniels, luxating patella, may be exhibited through issues linked to mobility and joint and muscle health. Limping is a common sign that your dog is in pain, and they may take a couple of steps with one of the affected limbs incorrectly. This results from a situation known as kneecap dislocation.

Well, the worst that happens in mild cases is that the kneecap returns to a normal position on its own. However, if your dog has been diagnosed with grade 3 or grade 4 luxating patella, this is a situation whereby the kneecap is permanently off the groove. Non-invasive treatments like physical therapy and relatively less intensive exercises are recommended for treating a mild patella that is luxated, but surgical intervention is deemed necessary for severe cases. However, if you are a responsible owner and take your dog to a vet who knows about this disease, it can be treated, and your beautiful Cocker Spaniel will go back to being as happy as ever. 

Hereditary Eye Disorders

It should also be noted that it is for the same lovely eyes that Cocker Spaniels are subjected to the following health problems. Hereditary cataracts manifest in your dog’s eyes as a cloudy film, which can set in early and sometimes as early as the first couple of months in the life of your dog. Progressive retinal atrophy is a disease in which the cells in the pup’s retina degenerate with the outcome of blindness. This is a congenital disease, which implies that puppies are born with the disease, and an owner cannot do anything that will help keep it off.

Suppose in any way your dog seems to need to be better coordinated and needs clarification, moving around pushing items of the house, or even getting lost. In that case, you should consult your veterinarian for diagnosis. Subsequently, dogs are able to adapt well to the situation of losing eyesight or being blind to some extent. The rest of their senses, for the most part, will make up for any vision issues they may have at a rather rapid pace.

Fleas and Ticks

Every dog is likely to be infested at one time or another with dog fleas, ticks, and other ear mites. Fleas and ticks might be challenging if you are sensitive to touching your pet. Sadly, you will have to get used to it because this is just a part of being a doggie!

The best news here is when you safeguard your Spaniel against fleas and ticks, you might have to handle the pests. You can safeguard your Cocker puppy with the proper treatment for the tick or flea your vet prescribes or by buying better flea control at the best pet stores. There are no other natural flea treatments if you plan on using a less alternative to medication.

Cocker Ears

Your Cocker Spaniel might have astonishing ears, but their pendulous design needs to be fixed because it never allows sufficient air to circulate throughout the entrance of this ear canal. Bacteria often breed instantly with the lack of proper air circulation, which is why the Spaniels have recurring infections in their ears.

Still, ear infections look as though they’re no fun for your dog because they can cause a whole lot of pain and suffering for him. This is why it is critical to attend to an ear infection immediately because if not, it will turn into a severe issue for your Cocker. At its worst, it can cause your dog to become deaf. Such a reason makes it crucial that you clean your Cocker’s ears at least once a week to assist in fighting infection and excess bacteria. It does not take a long time; just a few minutes is enough.

Conclusion

To maintain Cocker Spaniel health, feed it with properly balanced diets and ensure it exercises sufficiently. Add that to daily grooming sessions, regular facial and body inspections of his eyes and ears, and a visit to your vet after certain intervals in the year; your Cocker should be a healthy and happy dog. If you need more guidance and information to take care of your Cocker Spaniel pup, then at Up and Away Pups, we render you the best data about the same.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Health Problems Are Cocker Spaniels Prone To?

Some diseases include gastrointestinal diseases, hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and some allergies that affect the skin, leading to ear infections. Some of these will never meet a vet throughout their lives, but there will be others who will require constant attention for diseases that they will have to live with.

What Is a Healthy Diet for Cocker Spaniels?

Therefore, meat, bone, offal, and a very small portion of plant matter are all essential components in a Cocker Spaniel's diet and contribute beneficial vitamins and minerals to mealtimes.

What Is the Most Common Cause of Death in a Cocker Spaniel?

Cancer is the leading cause of death in senior dogs, and cocker spaniels could particularly suffer from lymphoma. This cancer attacks the lymph nodes and melanoma, which is skin cancer.