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Author:
C. Covington

While it is most likely not well-known information, many top breeders advise that instead of feeding your Cocker Spaniel any of the commercial brands of dog food, you should if possible have him on a diet of “real” food.  They reject the popular method of feeding pets  “artificial” foods, stating that commercially-made dog foods consist of faulty grains and meat by-products that are not fit for human consumption, and therefore should not be given to your puppy.  They add that such a commercial diet is often the cause of unnecessary allergies in pets.  Instead, they recommend a diet which is much more nutritious, healthy, and appetizing.

Fresh meat is most recommended for your pet--  chicken, turkey, and beef--  as well as foods which you may not have considered, such as oatmeal, brown rice, yogurt, eggs, cottage cheese, and raw fruits and vegetables.  A diet which consists of these foods will be an aid to your Cocker Spaniel's health, as well as being enjoyable for him to eat. 

If you are unable to provide a consistent diet of these fresh foods, and find it necessary to feed your puppy a commercially-prepared dog food, check to see if you can find one which has passed USDA inspection for the quality of its ingredients.  You should also make sure that the dog food contains pure meat as its top two ingredients, contains a minimal amount of grain, and no by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives.  In other words, only if it is healthful and safe for you yourself is it healthful and safe for your pet!  If you do decide to use commercial dog food, it is good to add fresh foods to it and also provide your puppy with vitamin supplements. 

In addition to what to feed your new Cocker Spaniel, when and how much are also important factors.  It is best to get and keep your puppy on a regulated feeding schedule from the very beginning--  it is healthier for him, and will also aid in his potty training.  It is recommended that a puppy be fed four times per day, until he is six months old;  water should be given to comply with his needs, but should be monitored so that he does not overdo and result in vomiting. 

As some dogs, and especially puppies, are prone to “gobbling”--  eating as much as there is in front of them and then vomiting--  you should only put in his bowl the amount that he should eat at that time.  By no means should you allow your pet's enthusiasm for eating to dictate the amount you give him;  nor should food be left in his bowl where it is easily accessible to him.  Keeping him on a regular feeding routine is one of the best ways to ensure the longtime health of your new pet. 

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A Quick Note From The Publisher... If you like the article above, you may be interested in the following article which is also related to Dog Breeds... NEGATIVE TRAITS OF COCKER SPANIELS One of the most difficult to deal with aspects of Cocker Spaniels is their tendency toward numerous serious health conditions;  and they are one of the riskiest breeds in terms of medical problems.  While hip dysplasia is a problem common to many purebreds in general, there are also many other concerns in a Cocker Spaniel.  Conditions which you should be aware of prior to purchasing your puppy include the possibility of congenital deafness, Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia, Autoimmune Thyroiditis, hypothyroidism, the skin problems of primary seborrhea, skin problems from food allergies, and urinary tract problems. They are also susceptible to numerous eye problems.   Obtaining a health certificate from the breeder after a full health exam is advised, as well as regular visits to your veterinarian after you have purchased your puppy. As the Cocker Spaniel is a very social breed, they often have a tendency toward separation anxiety--  left...