How Much Should I Feed My Cocker Spaniel?
by Josh
(Manchester, UK)
How much should I feed my cocker spaniel? He's not a purebreed and weighs 15 kilos.
Reply from Pauline (Web Owner)You don't say how old your cocker spaniel is - just that he's 15 kilos. Unfortunately, I need a little more information than this - however, I'll do my best!
My recommendation would be to check with your dog's food manufacturers - the packaging usually gives graded recommendations for daily food allowances depending upon the age of the dog and the expected adult weight.
This will obviously differ depending upon what type of food you give to your dog, whether it's kibble or wet food.
For example, I feed my Cocker Spaniel a dry kibble and the manufacturer recommends as follows:
Expected weight of adult dog - let's say 10-15 kgs.
A 3-5 month puppy, with an expected adult weight of 10-15 kgs, would have an allowance of 160/190 grammes per day whereas an adult dog of say 12 months and over, should be given between 150 and 210 grammes per day.
There's quite a variation there and if fed at the top end, ie 210 grammes per day, the dog may gain weight if it's not exercised very much. You could begin at 200 grammes per day and if your cocker spaniel begins putting on weight, either reduce the food allowance or increase his exercise. It really is as easy as that!
My 4 year old cocker, who weighs 14 kilos, gets an allowance of 190 grams day - split into two meals. He also recieves a handful of treats each day for good behaviour but he has a daily walk of at least 60 - 90 minutes to compensate ensure he works off the calories.
(His walks keep me thin too!)
If you're still unsure, you could always have a chat with your veterinary surgery or nutritionist and ask for their advice - I'm sure they'll be happy to help.
Recommended reading:
The Cocker Spaniel Diet and
Healthy Dog FoodCocker Spaniel Questions And AnswersReturn to About Cocker Spaniels - Homepage