Cocker Spaniel Lifespan should be an area of interest and education for an owner of this amazing breed. An effective way to enjoy your best friend for many years is to understand factors that can harm the health and longevity of your pet.

The Cocker Spaniel’s even-temperament, beautiful coat, and aristocratic nature led to many being kept as family pets. Over-breeding to meet the demand for this amazing breed has had a profound impact on the overall health and the Cocker Spaniel Lifespan in the years to come.

What is the average lifespan of the Cocker Spaniel Breed?

Although exceptions are always there, on average, Cocker Spaniels have a lifespan of approximately 12 to 15 years. This average applies to both the English and the American Cocker Spaniel breeds.

Surveys done on the Cocker Spaniel lifespan yielded the following results:

Details Longevity/Life Expectancy
American Cocker Spaniels 10-14 years
A UK survey of 60 American Cocker Spaniels Median lifetime of 10.3 years
Longest surviving American Cocker Spaniel 17.3 years
A survey, based on 289 English Cocker Spaniels 12-14 years
Median lifetime of 11.2 years
Longest surviving English Cocker Spaniel 17.3 years

Although it can be concluded from the table above that Cocker Spaniels have a reasonably long lifespan, there can be some things you need to ensure so that your best friend lives a full life.

Be alert:

If you notice any health condition symptoms in your pet, you must take immediate action. Vigilance and quick action can save your pet’s life.

Be mindful of their health and nutrition:

Cocker Spaniels love their food; however, it is your duty to feed them a healthy diet keeping in mind their activity, age, and size. You must always follow the prescribed portion size.

Exercise & training:

Cocker Spaniels are active creatures, but you need to stimulate their minds and motivate them. Vets suggest that they should get enough exercise every day for at least one hour. This not only lengthens their life spans but also makes them happy.

You can take them for a walk on a path where they can explore several smells. You can even train them for fetching. Further, you must not underestimate them if they are just young puppies. You can start gentle training from when they are as young as three to six months old.

Grooming & hygiene:

Cocker Spaniels are some of the most cooperative canines. They won’t trouble you for a bath. In fact, they enjoy being groomed. They are very proud of the flat and shiny coat, so you should blush it daily to maintain its sheen.

While you are grooming your favorite pet, make sure you check their ears for any infections or symptoms. Their ears are heavy and prevent proper airflow, which might cause frequent infections. Therefore, keeping a daily check can help you nip it in the bud.

Another specific detail about Cocker Spaniels is that they love to play in the water. But water also means mud. Bathing them regularly can reduce their chances of catching infections. Use an allergy-safe shampoo and also brush their teeth every day.

Common Cocker Spaniel Diseases

Although the above steps are necessary to enhance Cocker Spaniel’s life cycle, it is also essential to be aware of the possible diseases that this breed is prone to.

In the table, we have specified some common Cocker Spaniel health problems that could adversely affect the Cocker Spaniel Lifespan.

If you see any of the following symptoms, you should contact your vet and consult the appropriate treatment or take his permission for following the below-suggested treatments.

Health Condition Symptoms Treatment
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart) Rapid or labored breathing, listlessness, lack of appetite, weakness, fainting. Annual ECG or an Echocardiogram as from 1-year old;

Medication and dietary supplementation
Eye Diseases:

Canine Distichiasis)

Glaucoma

Cataracts

Keratoconjunctivitis

 Constant tearing of eyes,
Redness,
Irritation in the eyes,
Squinting,
The bluish tint of the cornea,
Eye lenses are cloudy,
Dullness of eyes,
Discharge in corners		 Electrocautery,
cryosurgery (freezing)
Laser procedureEye drops, surgery if necessarySurgical removal of cataractsOintment applied for the lifetime of your pet.
Idiopathic Epilepsy
(inherited disease)		 Seizures Blood analysis, Lifelong medication.
Skin Conditions:

a) Malassezia dermatitis (Yeast infection)

b) Seborrhea ( Flaky and dry skin; or greasy, oily)

 Ears have a discharge of brown wax-like substance;

Hair-fall and greasy areas on the throat, neck areas
bad odor!

Itchiness, constant scratching.

 Specially medicated shampoos, and rinses,

Prescribed medication for underlying allergies.
Cancer (a major cause of death in senior dogs) Uncharacteristic bumps or visible lumps. Diagnostic tests,
Surgical removal, chemotherapy.
Thyroid (Hypothyroidism) Dry, dull skin, and lifeless coat and hair loss, weight gain/loss, uncharacteristic behavior. Annual blood tests /screening, replacement hormonal tablets
Liver Diseases (If not diagnosed, can cause Hepatic Encephalopathy) severe brain condition) Diarrhea,
vomiting,
lack of appetite,
constant thirst		 Hepatitis and other conditions are diagnosed with blood testing and liver biopsy.

Treatment includes medication and prescribed diet
Urinary Stones (hard crystals in the urinary system) Passing frequent, painful, tiny amounts of urine,
Traces of blood in urine,
lack of appetite,
vomiting		 Medication and diet to dissolve the stones,
non-surgical procedure or surgical removal of stones
Bleeding Disorders (mostly inherited, i.e. Von Willebrand’s disease a blood clotting disorder Severe bleeding occurs at the slightest injury. Diagnostic tests, DNA and/or Surgery
Bone and Joint Problems

a) Patellar Luxation

b) Hip dysplasia

 a) Kneecap shifts

b) An inherited condition, dysfunctional hip joint
Lameness, difficulty walking, loose joints.

 a) Arthritis medication or surgery.

b) X-rays, Surgery in very severe cases.

Home Care Of Your Cocker Spaniel

As mentioned before, you need to be alert about the health and hygiene of your pet Cocker Spaniel. Below are some tried and tested to-dos to prevent some of the above conditions. These might not guarantee prevention, but they will definitely reduce the chances of disease infliction.

  • Deal with an ethical Breeder: When you want your pet to have a mate of his own, you can take him to an ethical breeder so that he doesn’t catch any infections.
  • Routine veterinarian examinations: Even though your pet might seem fine, you never know if he is suffering from some internal issues. You must take him to the vet as suggested by the doctor to take quick action for undiagnosed health issues. You also vaccinate your dog regularly as well.
  • Vaccinations: Regular vaccinations are a must; there is no second thought about it.
  • Good oral health routine: As mentioned before, regular brushing and bathing will keep your pet healthy and enhance his lifespan.
  • Daily grooming: Not only does regular grooming keeps your pet presentable and happy, but it also stimulates circulation.
  • High quality, balanced nutrition: A protein-rich diet is recommended for these active creatures, along with proper exercise and training.

You need to ensure that your pet is living a healthy life and prevent him from all the possible diseases. Remember, you are the only spokesperson that your pet has. Consult your veterinarian to discuss any cause for concern that can affect your pet’s quality of life and longevity and take
immediate action.