The cocker spaniel is one of the most versatile dog breeds today. Such dogs can be suitable as a house pet or a companion for hunting. It is due to their flexible built and generally cheerful and active lifestyle. Despite such physical, mental and emotional health, this dog breed is not saved from varied concerns. If you are a first time owner of this dog, you must understand that there are pertinent cocker spaniel problems.
The first among these concerns are those related to such dog breed’s health. Cockers are prone to be inflicted with ear infections. This is due to their long and heavy ear form. This may prevent proper air circulation, which in turn aids the creation of a moist environment where bacteria could thrive in.
Otitis externa or inflammation of the ear canal is this dog breed’s most common ear infection problem. Another ear problem suffered by some young cockers (about 3-4 weeks of age) is congenital deafness, which is brought about by the degenerative blood supply to the inner ear.
Included in the cocker spaniel problems are on the eyes. Some of these are progressive retinal atrophy, glaucoma, conjunctivitis (inflammation of the membrane lining the eyelids), cataracts and distichiasis (abnormal hair growth in the eyelids). These could be due to hereditary or environmental factors.
There are very serious health issues cockers are susceptible to as well. These include autoimmune hemolytic anemia, infectious canine hepatitis, parvovirus and leptospirosis. These problems often lead to mortality when left untreated.
Fortunately, there are various ways on addressing these cocker spaniel problems on health. For the infections, these are easiest to avert via regular cleaning of your dog’s ears and eyes. Grooming must also be instigated regularly to prevent catching of bacteria. You can decrease the risk for your pet to be inflicted with the deadly diseases via vaccination or immunization. If your pet might be already suffering from such diseases, there are still solutions such as drug therapies.
Meanwhile, there are also cocker spaniel problems regarding behavior. While cocker spaniels have a general gentle, playful, affectionate and respectful disposition, they are still prone to aggression and separation anxiety. These occur most especially when the dog is mishandled, often left alone or provoked. Cockers are also predisposed to rage syndrome, a condition wherein the dog exhibits heightened aggressiveness with no apparent reason.
There are varied ways on how to prevent or address these behavioral problems. The first of these is through obedience training. It is best to start such training as early as possible, ideally when your pet is at 2 months old. Most importantly, spend as much time with your pet. This will make him feel more secure, thus happier.
Now that you have a general idea of the common cocker spaniel problems, it would then be so much easier for you to take better care of your pet. Remember to always have your pet checked by your veterinarian so as any of these problems could be addressed right away or even before they occur.
Find out more about cocker spaniel problems and check out Shaun Plymptons latest article about cocker spaniel allergies today.
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