Cocker Spaniel (English)
KAH-kur SPAN-yul
Merry, Affectionate, Busy, Faithful. Originally bred for flushing and retrieving woodcock.
An adult Cocker Spaniel (English) weighs 28-34 lbs (male) or 26-32 lbs (female), needs 620-1,090 calories daily, and lives 12-14 yrs. This medium-sized breed balances well between manageable size and robust health. The breed's primary health watch is progressive retinal atrophy. All numbers below come from AKC breed standards and NRC 2006 veterinary nutrition formulas.
Nutrition and feeding
A typical adult Cocker Spaniel (English) needs 620 to 1,090 calories per day. An average male (31 lbs / 14.1 kg) needs around 860 kcal; a female (29 lbs / 13.2 kg) roughly 820 kcal. These estimates use the vet-standard RER/MER formula.
Estimate for a typical adult Cocker Spaniel (English). For puppies, seniors, or specific activity levels, use the full calorie calculator.
Health profile
The Cocker Spaniel (English) has a life expectancy of 12-14 yrs, which is typical for dogs in this size range. The breed's primary health concerns are progressive retinal atrophy and hip dysplasia, which responsible breeders screen for before breeding.
Exercise and activity
60+ minutes of vigorous daily exercise. More athletic and driven than American Cockers. Loves field work, swimming, and hiking. As a sporting breed, the Cocker Spaniel (English) was developed for endurance in the field. They excel at activities that engage both body and brain: retrieving, swimming, agility courses, and long hikes on varied terrain. Many sporting breeds develop behavioral problems without adequate outlet for their natural drive. Without sufficient exercise, the Cocker Spaniel (English) is likely to develop destructive behaviors, excessive barking, or anxiety. This is a breed that needs daily commitment to physical activity.
Care and traits
Cocker Spaniel (English)s have a medium-length, silky, with feathering coat. Origin: England.
Slightly larger and more athletic than American Cockers. More 'sporty' temperament; closer to their working origins. Same ear care needs as the American variety.
Grooming is a significant time commitment with this breed. Plan for daily brushing sessions and professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. Skipping grooming leads to mats, skin irritation, and potential infection underneath tangled coat.
Tools for Cocker Spaniel (English) owners
Frequently asked questions
Plan for 620 to 1090 calories per day for an adult Cocker Spaniel (English). A 31-pound individual falls near the middle of that range. Adjust portions seasonally if your dog is more active in warmer months and less active in winter. Working or competition dogs may need 20-30% more than resting estimates. Use our calorie calculator with your dog's actual weight for a personalized number.
Males typically weigh 28-34 lbs (12.7–15.4 kg). Females run lighter at 26-32 lbs (11.8–14.5 kg). Medium breeds can carry extra weight without it being visually obvious, especially those with thick coats. Hands-on rib checks are more reliable than looking. Check body condition by feeling the ribs (they should be easy to find), viewing from above (waist should narrow behind the ribs), and from the side (abdomen should tuck up behind the ribcage).
Progressive retinal atrophy is the primary health concern vets flag for Cocker Spaniel (English)s. PRA causes gradual vision loss and has no treatment, but affected dogs adapt remarkably well in familiar environments. Genetic testing of breeding dogs can identify carriers. Other conditions seen in the breed include hip dysplasia, ear infections, kidney disease. Regular vet visits with breed-specific screening catch problems when they are most treatable.
Budget 30 to 60 minutes of exercise daily for a Cocker Spaniel (English). Good activities for this breed include retrieving games, swimming, field work. Mix physical activity with mental challenges like training, puzzle feeders, or nose work. An under-exercised Cocker Spaniel (English) will find outlets for pent-up energy, often in ways you will not appreciate: chewing, barking, digging, or restless pacing.
Disclaimer: General breed information based on AKC standards and veterinary sources. Individual dogs vary. Calorie estimates use the RER/MER formula (NRC 2006). Consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog. See our sources.
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026