Introduction
That is not to say, that a Cocker Spaniel is easy to groom. This breed has its own peculiarities concerning fur and skin care:
- a Cocker Spaniel is a spotting breed that is bred to flush game in the field. So, fetching a duck, a Cocker soaks its fur in water, mud and debris.
- a Cocker’s coat has weatherproofing oils that protect its fur and skin. Washing your dog too often will damage this oil protective layer.
- a Cocker is prone to skin problems. Probably, it will need some special shampoo.
How Often Should I Bathe
If you engage your dog in flush gaming, you Cocker will need more frequent bathing (every 2 weeks, for example). If your Cocker is just a companion and doesn’t get too dirty, bathe it every 2-4 months.
Bathing regularity definitely depends on the time of a year: your Cocker will be more dirty in the spring and in the autumn, since bathing in winter can be even dangerous.
Some Simple Rules How to Bathe
- As Cocker had dense and smooth fur (that is also relatively long), brush your cocker spaniel before the bath.
- Clean your cocker’s face. This breed tends to tear, so wipe under the eyes with a cotton ball and clean water.
- Place your cocker spaniel on a non-slip surface in your bathtub. Saturate your cocker’s entire coat with warm water. However, it is not an easy task – Cocker’s fur is waterproof, so it means, that it will take time to water the fur.
- Use a tear-free shampoo to wash your dog (how to choose the best one we will tell you further). Pay special attention to body, ears, neck, tail, legs and buttocks.
- Rinse the shampoo till the water is clear. Use a mild dog conditioner. Rinse conditioner until the water runs clear.
- Dry your Cocker with a towel (drying with hairdryer is optional).
Choosing the Best Shampoo
There are some rules how to choose an appropriate shampoo for your Spaniel.
your Cocker is engaged in hunting, it will be definitely dirty from top to toe. Probably, you will have to wash your Cocker after every flushing game (every week or two).
Outdoor and field dogs may need flea shampoo after flushing game. Here you can choose the following natural shampoos:
- Dr. Harvey’s Herbal Shampoo and Conditioner;
- Happytails Canine Spa Line. Shampoo and Conditioner;
- The Honest Kitchen Sparkle Dog Shampoo;
- Ark Naturals Neem Protect Shampoo;
- VF Clinical Care Oatmeal And Tea Tree Oil Infuser Shampoo.
Cockers are prone to skin problems, especially to seborrhea. Choose the following products for itchy dogs:
- Luxury Tar & Sulfa Itch Relief Shampoo by Espree;
- Isle of Dogs Shampoos for Itchy Dogs;
- Nature’s Specialties Colloidal Oatmeal Shampoo;
- Vets Best Hypo-Allergenic Shampoo.
Products for regular use for Cockers who don’t get too dirty (bathing once in 2-3 months):
- Isle of Dog Deep Cleaning Dog Shampoo and Conditioner;
- Legger Dog Shampoo and Conditioner;
- Nourish Feelin’ Sweet Fash Wash & Shampoo;
- Triple Strength Dirty Dog Concentrated Shampoo.
