How Much Should We Feed Our Cocker Spaniel?

by Stefan
(London, England)

We have a 13 months old cocker spaniel, called Macy. We feed her twice a day, approximately 150-200 grams each meal.

Now we are wondering if maybe we are not feeding her enough because she is very often licking her bowl as if she is hungry and always looks for and picks up scrap of food in the street when we take her for walks.

Are we under-feeding her?

Reply from Pauline (Web Owner)

Hi Stefan,

Cocker Spaniels are always hungry - no matter what time of day it is!

We need to be careful not to overfeed them because cockers can easily become obese, especially as the grow older. Overweight dogs are more unhealthy and suffer more illnesses and once those extra pounds are on, they're difficult to move.

The amount you should be feeding your Cocker Spaniel will depend on her age and the stage she's at in her life.

For example, an older dog won't need as much food as a younger dog because its lifestyle will not be as active and therefore will be unable to burn off the equivalent calories.

It also depends upon the type of food you intend to feed your dog and whether or not she's been spayed. (Neutered dogs don't need to eat as much as intact dogs).

If you're feeding your puppy a good quality kibble she will probably need less of it, especially if it's not loaded with fillers such as corn.

Whatever food you feed your cocker, I recommend you follow the advice given on the food manufacturer's packaging. It will advise you how much to feed your puppy depending upon age and/or weight.

I think you're doing the right thing by feeding her twice a day rather than just once - I think it's much better this way.

If you're still not sure, why not ask your veterinarian's practice nurse? I'm sure she'll be only too pleased to advise.

You can read more about feeding your puppy here.

Good luck!

PS: If your puppy is scavenging outdoors, don't forget to worm her regularly.