Best Food for Cocker Spaniel: Top Nutrition Tips and Recommendations

They might be small, cute, and lovable, but owning a Cocker Spaniel is not a walk in the park (although it is, of course, involved). Cockers are full of character and energy, often requiring more attention than many other breeds. 

They are also prone to some specific health issues, especially pancreatitis and obesity. Such problems, in addition to their endless amounts of energy, mean you can’t just feed your Cocker the first dog food that comes along. 

No. If you want your Cocker Spaniel to live a long, healthy, and joyful life, you must ensure its nutritional needs are met. 

This is where MutzNutz can help, providing you with premium dog food from tried and trusted brands. Before you browse our store, though, it would be helpful to learn a thing or two about your Cocker’s nutrition. 

Cocker Spaniel Nutrition Guide

The first and most important thing to understand is that your Cocker Spaniel’s nutritional needs evolve with age. How old your pooch is will affect the food itself and how much you feed it. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of how Cockers’ dietary needs change throughout their lives:

Coker Spaniel Puppies (0-12 months)	Diet: Focus on high-quality puppy food formulated for small breeds. Amount: Start with smaller but frequent meals (3-4 times a day) and gradually reduce to 2 meals a day as they grow older. The exact amount depends on weight and activity level, but typically ranges from 150-250 grams a day for young puppies, reducing to 130-190 grams by 11 months.  Nutrients: Puppies need plenty of protein for growth and development. Look for a food with at least 22-30% protein.
Adult Cocker Spaniels (1-7 years old)	Diet: Transition to high-quality adult dog food appropriate for a small breed and activity level. Amount: Adult Cocker Spaniels typically need 1.5 to 2.5 cups of dry food per day, split into two meals. Again, this can vary depending on weight and activity level. Nutrients: Adult dogs need a balance of protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.expand_more Look for a food with around 18-25% protein.
Senior Cocker Spaniels (7+ years old)	Diet: Consider switching to a senior dog food formulated for lower activity levels and possibly containing joint supplements. Amount: You might need to adjust the feeding amount as your senior dog becomes less. The best idea is to consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations. Nutrients: Senior dogs may benefit from food rich in glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health, with slightly lower protein content (around 16-20%).

Keep in mind that these are only general recommendations. Every dog is different and may require unique nutrition. Be sure to consult a veterinarian to create the best and healthiest diet plan for your Cocker Spaniel pup. 

Feeding Tips & Important Considerations

Finding the right food for your Cocker Spaniel is imperative for its growth and health. However, premium-quality dog food is only one aspect of a healthy Spaniel’s diet. Other important considerations include:

• Routine is Key: Cocker Spaniels thrive on routine. Feed them at consistent times each day, usually twice a day for adults and more frequently for puppies.
• Portion Control: Don’t overfeed! Cocker Spaniels are prone to obesity. Measure their food carefully and stick to the recommended amount based on their age, weight, and activity level. Consult a veterinarian or the feeding guide on your dog’s food for specific recommendations.
• Slow Down the Eaters: Some Cocker Spaniels can be gulpers. Consider using a slow feeder bowl to help them eat slower and prevent indigestion or bloat.
• Resist the Pleading Eyes: Cocker Spaniels can be very good at begging for food. Avoid giving them table scraps or extra treats throughout the day. These add unnecessary calories and can disrupt their balanced diet.
• Fresh Water Always: Always ensure your Cocker Spaniel has access to fresh, clean water. This is especially important for dogs on a dry food diet.
• Weight Monitoring: Regularly weigh your Cocker Spaniel to monitor their body condition. If they seem to be gaining too much weight, adjust their food intake or increase their exercise.

Again, these are only general tips, and every dog has individual needs. Always consult your veterinarian for personalised dietary advice specific to your Cocker Spaniel. They can consider your dog’s health, age, activity level, and any underlying health conditions to recommend the best food and feeding plan.

Here’s a quick guide on how to find the best dog food for a Cocker Spaniel, plus a list of our top picks. Let’s get digging (pun intended).

Choosing the Best Food for Your Cocker Spaniel

Finding the right dog food for your Cocker Spaniel can be tricky. There are tons of things you ought to consider, such as your dog’s age, allergies, weight, and health conditions. 

To ensure you always pick the best food for your Cocker Spaniel, follow these steps:

• Consider Your Dog’s Age: As covered, your dog’s nutritional needs change with age. For a Cocker Spaniel pup, choose dog food rich in protein for growth and development. Adult Cockers require an adjusted protein grade based on their activity levels. Seniors, on the other hand, require specific senior food for lower activity levels, weight management, and joint health support. 

• Read the Label: Look for food with whole meat sources listed as the first few ingredients. Avoid foods with fillers, artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives. Take a closer look at the minimum protein, fat, fibre, and moisture content, and pick food with protein appropriate for your dog’s age and activity level.

• Look for Reputable Brands: Choose dog food brands with a good reputation for quality and safety. Research online or consult your veterinarian for recommendations.

• Consider Your Dog’s Special Needs: If your Cocker Spaniel has any allergies or health conditions, discuss dietary needs with your veterinarian and choose a food formulated for their specific requirements.

Following these four simple steps is the best way to ensure you pick the right dog food for your Cocker Spaniel to keep it happy and healthy throughout each stage of its life. 

Best Dog Food for Cocker Spaniel: MutzNutz Top Picks

Best Food for Cocker Spaniel Puppies

#1 Canagan Puppy Feast Grain-Free 

Our Rating: 5/5 Main Protein Source: Chicken Key Ingredients: 35% free-run chicken, 30% beef, sweet potato, botanicals, and green-lipped mussel Type: Wet Food Best for: Cocker Spaniel puppies Why we picked it: Grain-free Made with high-quality organic ingredients High meat content for growth support and joint health Rich in vitamins and zinc that promote your pup’s development and support its immune system

#2 Return to the Wild – Grain Free Puppy Small Breed – Turkey, Duck, Sweet Potato, Dill and Camomile

Our Rating: 5/5 Main Protein Source: Turkey and duck Key ingredients: 60% turkey and duck, 40% vegetables, seeds and supplements Type: Dry Food Best for: Cocker Spaniel puppies Why we picked it: Made with top-quality proteins that support a healthy pup’s growth Easily digestible kibbles Includes omega-3s to support healthy skin and coat 100% grain-free Rich in vitamins and minerals that support your pup’s immune system and overall health

Best Food for Adult Cocker Spaniels

#1 Canagan Small Breed Scottish Salmon

Our Rating: 5/5 Main Protein Source: Salmon Key Ingredients: 60% salmon, 40% vegetables and botanicals Type: Dry Food Best for: Adult Cocker Spaniels Why we picked  it: 100% grain-free Balanced ratio of protein-to-carbohydrates for proper nutrition Prepared with premium-quality ingredients Has smaller kibbles perfect for smaller dogs

#2 Return to the Wild – Grain Free Small Breed Chicken, Sweet Potato and Herbs

Our Rating: 5/5 Main Protein Source: Chicken Key Ingredients: 55% chicken, 45% vegetables, seeds and supplements Type: Dry Food Best for: Adult Cocker Spaniels Why we picked it: High in vitamins and minerals that support your pup’s immune system and health Made with freshly prepped chicken for maximum digestibility  100% grain-free and hypoallergenic Rich in omega 3s for healthy coat and skin

Best Food for Senior Cocker Spaniels

#1 Return to the Wild – Grain Free Senior/Adult Light – Trout, Salmon, Sweet Potato and Asparagus

Our Rating: 5/5 Main Protein Source: Salmon Key Ingredients: 50% salmon, 50% vegetables, seeds and supplements Type: Dry Food Best for: Adult & Senior Cocker Spaniels Why we picked it: Formulated with zero grains and cereals Rich in omega 3s for healthier skin and coat Rich in vitamins and minerals to support joint health and immune system Developed with ingredients that support digestion

#2 Burns Adult & Senior Weight Control

Our Rating: 5/5 Main protein source: Chicken Key ingredients: 40% oats, 17% chicken, 18% brown rice, and minerals Type: Dry Food Best for: Adult & Senior Cocker Spaniels Why we love it: Formulated specifically for obesity-prone adult and senior dogs Made with no added grains or dairy 100% hypoallergenic and gluten-free Rich in vitamins and ingredients that support overall health

Wrapping Up

With so many dog food brands available, choosing the right one for your Cocker Spaniel can seem overwhelming. But don’t worry! By carefully evaluating different options, you can ensure your furry friend gets the optimal nutrition they need at every stage of life.

At MutzNutz, you’ll find premium dog food for Cocker Spaniels, coming from renowned brands and made with top-quality and natural ingredients. Browse our store today and support your pup’s health with all the nutrients it needs for a long and joyful life!