Cocker Spaniel Characteristics
Life expectancy: 11 – 14 years
Adult weight: 25 – 30 lbs.
Adult height: 13 – 16 in.
Origin – United States
Cocker Spaniels can be of two types; American and English. Despite some clear distinct features, both are called Cocker Spaniels in their own countries. The American one is of a sporting type and is a younger version of its English counterpart.
There are two types of spaniels; water and land. The land ones were named Cocker or Cocking spaniels for their use of flushing Woodstock. These dogs are referred to as ‘merry’ for their even temperament. High intelligence also adds to the list of pros of these dogs. The outside is equally attractive as is inside, as these spaniels have also been used as show-dogs and have even won quite a few. The transition from a hunting breed to a show dog happened purposely when their long coats were developed.
Appearance-wise, these look distinct due to their long silky coats. These also are the smallest dog breed of the sporting type. The skull gives its unique look due to its rounded dome-type shape. The cherry on the cake is set by the fact that these are available in a variety of colors which can please a variety of people. No wonder these dogs have been among the most popular ones in the U.S.
What is the price of a Cocker Spaniel puppy?
Cocker Spaniels are among the popular breeds of dogs in the U.S. So, adoption or buying should not be a very big challenge. Many factors will come into place deciding the cost of a Cocker Spaniel. The breeder, pet’s age, gender, health, and bloodline, are some factors that can influence the price.
Buying: $1000 – $2000
If you ask for a Cocker Spaniel price from a breeder, you can expect it to be upwards of $1000 to $2000. If you search for a Cocker Spaniel puppy, it may cost a bit higher at around $3000. It is advisable to opt for an AKC-registered puppy as you can rest assured of its health, even though the price range can be a bit higher.
If your search is for Cocker Spaniel puppies under $300, adoption is a great option for you. There are several rescue shelters that can be contacted online to help provide safe avenues to adopt these spaniels. A Cocker Spaniel puppy cost at a rescue shelter may be a little higher than the adult dogs. This is because, in the case of puppies, the shelter usually covers the cost of care like initial check-ups, vaccinations, and deworming doses. The older the dog, the lesser the fee typically is at an adoption center. You can expect an adopted cocker spaniel dog price to be between $100-$300.
Read More: Do Cocker Spaniels Shed?
Monthly costs for a Cocker Spaniel
Diets: $60-$80
In cases of small dogs like this one, it is not the quantity that decides the cost of food but the quality. A growing pup would need more kibble than the older ones given its growing age. On average, the feeding requirement is about 1lb per day and a 30lb bag of dog food can cost around $60-$80 per month.
Grooming: $40-$60
The Cocker Spaniel’s show-stopper coats will require a good amount of grooming. Their hair growth can be heavy at times, meaning regular trimming and shaping will be needed. Apart from that, common grooming for any breed like nail trimming, teeth, and ear cleaning twice a month would be sufficient. These can be done at home, but if you prefer a professional groomer then the costs could be around $40-$60 per session.
Medical Costs: $50-$100
During the first years, it is recommended you take your pet to the vet about 3-4 times annually. Vet fees can range from $100 to $300, and could include things like annual wellness exams and blood tests among other recommended preventive care treatments. Other examinations and tests could cost you another $300-$400.
Like all breeds, Cocker Spaniels are at risk of developing health conditions during their lifetime. Due to their long floppy ears, Otitis (a type of ear infection) is a common condition for this breed. Similarly, their long-silky coat can also develop skin infections. Another possible health condition to be aware of is Luxating Patella. On average, the treatment costs for these may be -
Luxating Patella - $1000-$1500
Otitis - $200-$400
Skin Infections - $250-$900 (depending on the type of infection)
One-time costs for a Cocker Spaniel
Initial Costs: $400-$450
If this Spaniel is going to be the first dog in the family, then there will be some initial setup costs associated. These initial items include a dog bed, a crate, leash and collars, toys, and food and water bowls. The cost of these items can be around $400-$450.
Vaccinations: $250-$300
There are certain core vaccinations that a Cocker Spaniel would need. These include distemper, parvovirus, Adenovirus, type 1, Adenovirus, type 2, and rabies. All of these could cost you around $150-$200.
There are certain non-core vaccinations as well that are recommended by most vets for a Cocker Spaniel. These include parainfluenza, Lyme disease, and leptospirosis. The cost of these vaccines can be around $130-$150.
Microchipping: $50-$70
90% of the lost pets in the U.S. are not found. This is where microchipping can help. 70-80% of microchipped pets find their way back home. The cost can vary from state to state, but the average cost is around $50
Neutering or Spaying: $150-$400
Neutering or spaying the dog is recommended to help protect your dog from health problems. Neutering can cost around $150 and spaying could cost around $400.
Lifetime Cocker Spaniel Price
Whether you opt for an English Cocker Spaniel or an American one, the lifetime cost can be expected to be around $22,000. This includes the initial costs of $500, along with the purchasing cost of $2000, annual costs of $1200 for initial years, and $1000 for later years for an approximate lifespan of 12 years.
How can Spot Pet Insurance help?
Spot accident & illness pet insurance plans offer a wide variety of coverages, from microchip implantation to surgeries and prescription food and supplements prescribed to treat your pet’s unexpected accidents and illnesses. (Prescription food and supplements used for general health or weight maintenance are not covered). For an extra cost, Spot dog insurance plans offer preventive care coverage add-ons to help cover the costs of certain routine vaccinations, annual wellness exams, and other preventive care treatments. You can view the add-on preventive care coverage options. Get in touch with us to know more!
Conclusion
This good-looking, intelligent, loving, and affectionate show-type sporting dog may not be the most affordable dog to maintain, but the love it will give to your family is worth it. And you can worry less about the expenses knowing Spot plans can cover up to 90% of your eligible vet bills for covered conditions!
Happy Parenting to you, and Lots of Love to your Pup!
The resident animal enthusiast at Spot. I have a lifetime of pet parent experience. If it has fur, feathers, or scales, I’ve probably shared my home with it. I aim to be a reliable source, blending experience with a dedication to the well-being of pets.
