Cocker Spaniel Puppy Care
You have acquired a Cocker Spaniel puppy, and now you want to ensure he or she is happy with you and your family. Here you will find the essential tips on Cocker Spaniel puppy care that will put your dog and your family at ease and in tune with one another in the shortest period of time.
Housebreaking Your Cocker Spaniel Puppy
Cocker Spaniels are very intelligent, and they will be able to quickly absorb information, especially if provided regularly and in a routine manner. For example, the best way to teach a Cocker Spaniel puppy to use the litter box, which is probably one of the hardest things that most first time dog owners complain about, is to ensure that after meals you take your Cocker Spaniel to the designated area, and once they have used it ensure you show your appreciation with love and praise.
You will find that you need to keep repeating this routine more then a few times in order for your Cocker to understand what the litter box is for. Take your time to housebreak your new puppy and friend, but also remember that he or she is suffering from the fact that the environment has changed and he or she was just separated from what was until now his or her family.
The Cocker Spaniel breed is generally very friendly, but can also be timid if you don’t take the time to ensure he or she socializes with everyone in the house, including children and elderly folks. Another routine that needs to be followed during housebreaking is showing your Cocker Spaniel puppy where the feeding and water bowl is. You must create a sleeping area designated just for your puppy.
The Health of Your Cocker Spaniel Puppy
Vaccinations and regular check-ups will keep your dog healthy, as well as prevent any future possibility of diseases or disorders. Remember that the Cocker breed is prone to ear infections, eyes infections, glaucoma, and dysplasia, which is the dislocation of the hip joint.
Diet and proper nutrition is another aspect that you need to address as soon or even before you acquire your Cocker Spaniel puppy, as their base needs to be strong in order to ensure healthy growth with a resistant metabolism. Cocker Spaniels eat everything from fruit and vegetables to meat. However, they also tend to put on weight if you don’t watch their diet and don’t provide proper activity and exercise.
Check with your veterinarian at all stages what diet and nutrition is best for your Cocker Spaniel. Also check in regards to what vitamins are needed for which season, in order to keep the immune system boosted and functioning well.
The Right Veterinarian
It is important you have a good veterinarian in order for your Cocker Spaniel to be comfortable and relaxed when in for his or her check-ups. The vet’s office should be preferably close to your home, so in case of an emergency you can reach it quickly. Also ask for emergency phone numbers where you will find a person who can provide emergency help.
A health insurance plan may be required in order to ensure that your veterinarian is covered for any major surgery such as a cataract, which your Cocker Spaniel is prone to. Preparing for your Cocker Spaniel puppy should be done before your puppy arrives. Thus, you will know exactly what to do once your puppy is home, making housebreaking a smooth and easy time for you and your puppy.
