Cocker Spaniel health is very important, and it's vital that we monitor our dogs for signs of ill health.
One of the most common tell-tale signs of poor canine health is Halitosis, or 'dog breath' as it's also know.
If your dog develops bad breath it can be a sign of poor dental hygiene which has resulted in gingivitis, or peridontal disease.
If your dog's dental hygiene is good, and his breath is very bad, there may be something much more serious lurking. If your dog's breath is malodorous, please don't try to diagnose it yourself - visit your vet immediately.
Cocker Spaniel Health Problems
Every canine breed has health concerns and as a responsible owner you need to be aware of those that may affect your pet.
There are some canine health problems that are hereditary to a particular breed, and others that are simple ailments common to all breeds.
Conditions which may affect your Cocker Spaniel's health are as follows:
Hip Dysplasia (Abnormal Development of the Hip Joint)
Auto-Immune Disease (This name covers a range of immune-related diseases such as, Hypothyroidism, Addisons Disease, Haemolytic Anaemia, and others)
Responsible breeders will test for the above prior to breeding in a bid to stamp out these diseases.
Cocker Spaniel Health - Ears
Cocker Spaniel ears are prone to many problems and will need to be kept scrupulously clean, as an ear infection can cause your dog considerable discomfort, and in the extreme, deafness.
Learn more about Cocker Spaniel ears; how to ensure they remain clean, and how to avoid infection.
Cocker Spaniel Health - Eyes
Cocker Spaniels are also susceptible to eye problems, so you'll need to ensure you clean them often, and have regular eye checks when you visit your vet.
Hereditary conditions may not be preventable, but there may be some health problems that you can prevent, or minimize, with regular inspection and by keeping your dog's eyes scrupulously clean.
Learn more about your dog's eyes and how to spot, and avoid, potential eye problems in Cocker Spaniels.
Cocker Spaniel Health - Anal Glands
Dog anal glands are two small glands just inside your dog's anus, just below and to either side of the anal opening.
Problems with anal glands are fairly common in dogs, particularly where their diet is poor.
If not functioning properly, or as a result of a poor diet, the anal glands may become impacted and/or infected, and will need to be cleared. Your vet or your groomer can teach you how to do this so that when you're confident enough you can do it yourself.
Our dog's health is very important to us but it's vital that when we believe our dog is unwell we don't try and diagnose the symptoms ourselves.
As responsible owners, we should be aware of Cocker Spaniel health concerns, symptoms, and their remedies, but we must always consult a qualified veterinary if we're at all concerned about our dog's health.
It's true a healthy dog is a happy dog!
If you'd like to learn more about your dog's health you can do so at Healthy Dog - Happy Dog
