All Cocker Spaniel guides
Whether you've just brought home a Cocker Spaniel puppy or you've owned the breed for years, our guides cover everything you need. Four guides live now with more launching every week.
Best food for Cocker Spaniels UK 2026
Our top 5 picks tested and reviewed — from budget kibble to premium wet food, all available in the UK.
✓ Read the guideBest pet insurance for Cocker Spaniels UK 2026
Why Cocker Spaniels need lifetime cover and the best UK policies for ear, eye and hereditary conditions.
✓ Read the guideCocker Spaniel puppy checklist UK 2026
Everything you need to buy, arrange and prepare before bringing your Cocker Spaniel puppy home.
✓ Read the guideBest grooming tools for Cocker Spaniels UK
The best brushes, clippers and grooming kits for keeping that silky coat in perfect condition.
✓ Read the guideCocker Spaniel health guide UK 2026
Common conditions including ear infections, PRA, and hip dysplasia — what to watch for and when to act.
Coming soonBest dog beds for Cocker Spaniels UK 2026
From cosy caves to orthopaedic options — our pick of the best beds for Cockers of every age.
Coming soonCocker Spaniel training guide UK 2026
Breed-specific training tips from puppy socialisation through to recall, agility and beyond.
Coming soonAbout the Cocker Spaniel breed
The Cocker Spaniel is one of the UK's most beloved breeds — consistently ranking in the top 5 most popular dogs in Britain. Known for their silky coats, soulful eyes and endlessly cheerful nature, they make wonderful family companions and working dogs alike.
There are two types you'll commonly encounter in the UK — the English Cocker Spaniel (the most common) and the slightly smaller American Cocker Spaniel. Our guides focus primarily on the English Cocker as it's the dominant variety here.
🐕 Cocker Spaniel breed at a glance
- Size: Medium — typically 12–15kg
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Exercise needs: High — minimum 1 hour per day
- Common health issues: Ear infections, PRA (eye condition), hip dysplasia, kidney disease
- Coat: Long, silky — requires regular grooming every 6–8 weeks
- Good with children: Excellent — one of the most family-friendly breeds
- Insurance cost (UK): Typically £25–£50/month for lifetime cover
One thing every UK Cocker Spaniel owner should know — this breed is prone to chronic ear infections due to their long, heavy ears trapping moisture. Lifetime pet insurance is strongly recommended from puppyhood, before any ear conditions develop and become excluded as pre-existing. Our insurance guide covers this in full.