Top 10 Best Dog Foods for Cocker Spaniels

Top 10 Best Dog Foods for Cocker Spaniels

Cute, curly, and just a bit clamorous, Cocker Spaniels are incredibly endearing little pups. Their gentle, affectionate personalities make them great family pets, as they’re usually pretty friendly with children and other animals.

Below, we’ll discuss the common health concerns that afflict Cocker Spaniels and the factors you’ll want to consider when choosing a food. We’ll also detail five of the best recipes for the breed and recommend the best available option.

The 10 Best Dog Foods for Cocker Spaniels

Chicken Soup for the Soul Adult Weight Care

Chicken Soup for the Soul Large Breed Puppy

Brand: Chicken Soup for the Soul
Flavor: Brown rice, chicken, and turkey
Type: Adult
Calories: 328
Protein: 21%
Fat: 6%
Fiber: 9%
Moisture: 10%

If you want a delicious recipe for your chunky Cocker Spaniel to try, check out Chicken Soup for the Soul Adult Weight Care. Dieting doesn’t have to be difficult or tasteless. Now, your pup can reduce their caloric intake with a healthy meal that they will enjoy every time.

This formula is packed with superfoods bursting with antioxidants like blueberries, apples, and leafy spinach. The L-carnitine turns fat into energy so they can burn off those extra pounds. Plus, it keeps your pup regular with ingredients that boost digestion function like prebiotics for gut health.

This recipe contains high fiber but low fat to combat packing on unnecessary pounds that can make it harder for your aging guy or gal to get around. In one serving, there are 328 calories. The guaranteed analysis reads 21% crude protein, 6% crude fat, 9% crude fiber, and 10% moisture.

We looked over the whole ingredient list, and while there are some ingredients that certain Cocker Spaniels might be sensitive to, (like protein sources or grains) we think it’s an ideal recipe for weight management.

Pros
  • Contains superfoods and prebiotics
  • Low fat, high fiber
  • L-carnitine for fat burning
Cons
  • Only for overweight Cocker Spaniels

Ollie Baked Dog Food – Best Overall

Ollie gently baked chicken and carrot recipe dog food bag

Ollie is another start-up company that has found a following with pet parents who enjoy the convenience of a delivery subscription. The website walks you through the process of selecting a recipe based on some questions about your dog. They offer two lines, fresh and baked. Overall, the Baked Chicken Recipe is our choice for the best dog food for Cocker Spaniels.
This dog food ticks off many boxes we like to see in these products. It is AAFCO-approved, which means you’re giving your Cocker Spaniel a complete and balanced diet. It also contains added taurine, which is significant since this breed is susceptible to canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) associated with a deficiency in this chemical compound.

However, there are a few red flags. The food is grain-free, which might be a risk factor for DCM. That also applies to the peas and pea flour in the top six ingredients in the recipe. It’s worth noting that “human-grade” is not an official term for pet food. On the positive side, it is high in protein and exceeds the AAFCO’s recommendations for the minimum intake of 18% for adult dogs.
Remember that Cocker Spaniels are prone to weight gain. We suggest carefully monitoring your pet’s diet and body condition, given its fat content and calories. You should also discuss changing your pup’s food with your veterinarian if you have concerns about your pet’s DCM risk.

Cons
  • Grain-free isn’t ideal for some dogs
  • Peas are a questionable ingredient
Pros
  • Added taurine
  • Generally clean ingredients
  • Made in the USA
  • AAFCO-approved nutrition

ORIJEN Dry Dog Food

ORIJEN High-Protein

We chose Orijen high-protein dry dog food for its superior ingredients and biologically appropriate formula. Although you will pay a significantly higher price for this dry dog food, your Cocker Spaniel will be treated to fresh, raw, whole animal ingredients that match your dog’s natural nutritional needs.

Ranch-raised beef, wild boar, Boer goat, grass-fed lamb, Yorkshire pork, and wild-caught mackerel are delivered fresh and raw to Orijen’s kitchen in Kentucky, where they are minimally processed to contain meat, organs, cartilage, and bone in the dog food. The result is a protein-rich meal that provides a natural source of nutrients and a taste most dogs love.

While two-thirds of this dog food are animal based, the remaining third comes from vegetables and fruit sourced from Kentucky farms and orchards and delivered fresh and whole. Keep in mind that this dog food is grain free, which may be linked to certain health issues.

Cons
  • Very expensive
  • Grain free may be linked to certain heart issues, according to the FDA
Pros
  • Naturally supplies nutrients
  • Fresh, whole, locally sourced fruits and vegetables
  • Biologically appropriate formula
  • Superior quality ingredients
  • Fresh, raw, whole animal ingredients for protein-rich meal
  • Most dogs like the taste

Taste of The Wild Dry Dog Food – Best Value

Taste of The Wild

We selected Taste of The Wild grain-free dry dog food as the best dog food for Cocker Spaniels for the money. At an affordable price, this dog food provides balanced nutrition best suited for small breeds such as Cocker Spaniels and high-quality ingredients from trusted, sustainable sources.

Taste of the Wild lives up to its name, with real venison as the first ingredient. Not only do most dogs like the flavor, but it also supplies optimal protein and amino acids. Plus, this dry dog food contains essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants provided through super foods, as well as a fatty acid blend for improved skin and coat.

Taste of the Wild also provides for your dog’s digestive tract by including species-specific probiotics. It’s made grain free, with no corn, wheat, fillers, or artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Be aware, however, that the FDA is investigating a link between canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and grain-free dog food.

Cons
  • Grain free may be linked to certain heart issues, according to the FDA
Pros
  • Dogs like the flavor
  • Optimal protein and amino acids
  • Contains essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fatty acids
  • Best value
  • Balanced nutrition
  • High-quality ingredients
  • Includes probiotics for better digestion
  • No corn, wheat, fillers, or artificial additives

Castor & Pollux Puppy Dry Food – For Puppies

Castor & Pollux Puppy Dry Food

If you’re looking to feed your Cocker Spaniel puppy a certified organic option offered at an affordable price, then you may to consider Castor & Pollux Organix. This grain-free puppy dry dog food has the essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that your growing puppy craves, without the extra additives and preservatives that your puppy doesn’t need.

Castor & Pollux Organix lists its first ingredient as organic, free-range chicken. The remaining ingredients include a blend of superfoods loaded with important nutrients. Also, this dry dog food is made with DHA to ensure the healthy development of your puppy.

We found that while most puppies seem to like and can easily eat the small, round shapes of this dry dog food, other puppies don’t care for the flavor. Also, this dog food has grain-free alternative ingredients, which may be linked to health issues.

Cons
  • Some puppies do not like flavor
  • Grain free may be linked to certain heart issues, according to the FDA
Pros
  • Supplies essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients
  • Formulated for your puppy’s dietary needs
  • Made with DHA
  • Kibble size and shape ideal for puppies
  • Certified organic
  • Affordable price
  • First ingredient: organic, free-range chicken
  • Blend of superfoods

Merrick 38380 GF Dog Food

Merrick 38380

Made with your dog’s whole health in mind, Merrick dog food offers your dog balanced nutrition and high-quality ingredients. With deboned fish, poultry, or meat as its first ingredient, your dog will receive the protein needed to support their active lifestyle.

Formulated with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, Merrick dog food maintains the health of your dog’s skin and coat. It’s made with glucosamine and chondroitin, which helps your dog’s hip and joint function. This dry dog food is also made with whole fruits and vegetables for natural nutrition. Most dogs like the flavor.

Merrick dog food is grain free and does not contain preservatives, fillers, corn, wheat, soy, or gluten. Be aware that there may be a link between grain-free food and certain health issues.

Cons
  • Grain free may be linked to certain heart issues, according to the FDA
Pros
  • Contains glucosamine and chondroitin for hips and joints
  • Made with whole fruits and vegetables
  • Most dogs like the flavor
  • Balanced nutrition
  • Wholesome, high-quality ingredients
  • Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat
  • No preservatives, fillers, corn, wheat, soy, or gluten

Royal Canin Breed Dog Food

Royal Canin 418130

Another great selection of the best overall dog food for your Cocker Spaniel goes to Royal Canin. This dry dog food is specifically and uniquely formulated to meet the nutritional needs of adult Cocker Spaniels over one year old.

While you will pay more for this high-quality dry dog food, Royal Canin addresses specific issues for your Cocker Spaniel, right down to the structure of the kibble. Each piece of kibble has a shape and a texture designed with your Cocker Spaniel’s broad muzzle and square jaw in mind, making it easier to pick up and to chew. We did find that older dogs may be challenged by the hardness of the kibble, however.

Many Cocker Spaniels tend to put on weight, which is why this dog food provides a balanced formula to prevent this issue. Royal Canin includes taurine, as well as EPA and DHA from fish oil, to promote healthy heart function. It also incorporates essential nutrients to support skin and coat health.

Cons
  • Expensive
  • Older dogs may have difficulty with hard texture
Pros
  • Balanced nutrition to prevent weight gain
  • Taurine, EPA, and DHA to promote heart health
  • Specifically formulated for Cocker Spaniels
  • Specially designed kibble shape
  • Essential nutrients for skin and coat health

American Journey Poultry & Beef Variety Pack

Brand: American Journey
Flavor: Beef and chicken, chicken and turkey
Type: Adult
Calories: 420, 425
Protein: 9%
Fat: 6%
Fiber: 1.5%
Moisture: 78%

If you’re searching for a wet food selection that triggers the appetite and is easy to chew, look at the American Journey Poultry & Beef Variety Pack. Your dog can have a variety of flavors as a topper to dry kibble or enjoy these cans as a standalone diet.

We really like that these canned foods don’t contain potentially allergy-inducing ingredients or fillers like corn, wheat, soy, artificial additives, and byproducts. Dogs seem to love the extra boost of flavor, meat chunks, and added moisture to create a more robust eating experience.

The two offered recipes are beef and chicken, and chicken and turkey. So, your dog can get a mouthwatering meal every time. In one serving, there are between 420 and 425 calories. The guaranteed analysis on both reads 9% crude protein, 6% crude fat, 1.5% crude fiber, and 78% moisture.

These cans are true to their name—crafted in the USA and made without the use of BPA. We’re sure your pup will love these protein-packed recipes, but some dogs might be sensitive to these protein sources.

Pros
  • Flavorful eating with added hydration
  • Perfect as a topper or standalone diet
  • Free of BPA
Cons
  • Some Cocker Spaniels might be sensitive to these proteins

Natural Balance Diets Dry Dog Food

Natural Balance 42037

The limited ingredients in Natural Balance dry food help dogs with sensitivities avoid unpleasant reactions. Made with high-quality protein to support strong muscles, Natural Balance also includes natural fiber to promote healthy digestion, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

With its limited ingredient list that only includes the finest protein and carbohydrate sources, Natural Balance has no fillers, no poultry by-products, and no artificial flavors or colors. However, it does contain preservatives.

Despite being higher in price, this dog food does not contain certain helpful ingredients found in other dog foods, such as fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin, and DHA. Also, this dog food’s first ingredient is sweet potatoes rather than a source of protein. It is grain-free, which is possibly linked to certain health issues.

Cons
  • Does not contain certain helpful ingredients
  • Lists sweet potato as its first ingredient
  • Contains preservatives
  • Higher in price
  • Grain-free may be linked to certain heart issues, according to the FDA
Pros
  • Contains essential vitamins and minerals
  • No fillers, poultry by-products, or artificial additives
  • Limited ingredients help dogs with food sensitivities
  • High-quality protein source
  • Provides natural fiber to promote health digestion

Zignature 31020 Dry Dog Food

Zignature 31020

Formulated with your dog’s natural biological dietary needs in mind, Zignature dry dog food supplies your Cocker Spaniel with a meal high in protein and rich in nutrients. It also contains essential omega fatty acids, powerful antioxidants, and wholesome low glycemic carbohydrates.

With a meat-first philosophy, Zignature always makes its first ingredient a fish or animal source. It offers your Cocker Spaniel a dry dog formula that is hypoallergenic, with no corn, wheat gluten, soy, or dairy. Zignature insists on being 100% chicken free, which includes all types and forms of chicken products.

Interestingly, we found that a large number of dog owners report that their dog’s frequent ear infections are reduced or eliminated by eating this dog food. It also has a flavor most dogs enjoy, though it is rather expensive.

Zignature is a grain-free product. Be aware of the potential health issues linked to grain-free dog food.

Cons
  • Rather expensive
  • Grain free may be linked to certain heart issues, according to the FDA
Pros
  • First ingredient is a fish or animal source
  • Hypoallergenic with no corn, wheat gluten, soy, dairy, or chicken
  • May help if your dog suffers from ear infections
  • Naturally formulated for your dog’s biological dietary needs
  • High in protein and rich in nutrients
  • Contains fatty acids, antioxidants, and low glycemic carbohydrates
  • Most dogs like the flavor

Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Dog Foods for Cocker Spaniels

After reading through our reviews, you may still have questions about which dog food is best for your Cocker Spaniel. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll go over important health issues related specifically to Cocker Spaniels and their diets. Hopefully, we can help you find the best dog food to keep your Cocker Spaniel healthy, active, and well.

Nourish Your Cocker Spaniel

Every Cocker Spaniel’s diet needs a nutritional balance of protein, carbohydrates, fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Your dog food should supply an optimum amount of ingredients from each of these categories in order for your dog to gain a variety of benefits.

Important Fats and Fatty Acids

Fats (including omega fatty acids), in the proper proportion, supply what your Cocker Spaniel needs for a shiny coat, as well as healthy skin and clear eyes. They protect against arthritis and keep hips and joints in top condition. The fatty acid DHA also supports brain development in puppies.

Protein for Strength

Protein builds muscle, keeps bones strong, and promotes a fit body weight. Sources of protein should only include high-quality fish and meats and never any by-products.

 

Vitamins and Minerals for Optimal Health

Finally, essential vitamins and minerals, along with additional supplements, can boost your Cocker Spaniel’s immunity and support their overall health. Glucosamine and chondroitin help restore mobility in joints.

Carbohydrates for Energy

Good carbohydrates from fruits and vegetables — as well as certain grains, including rice, barley, or oatmeal — give your active Cocker Spaniel what they need to maintain their energy levels. Carbs also provide your dog with fiber, which aids digestion. However, for obvious reasons, avoid certain carbohydrates that produce gas.

 

Health Issues and Diet

From puppies through advanced adulthood, your Cocker Spaniel’s dietary needs will grow and change. It’s important to be aware of the common health concerns that may occur with this dog breed. A diet tailored for your Cocker Spaniel’s health issues can make a big impact on their overall health.

Keep Your Cocker Spaniel Fit

Cocker Spaniels tend to put on excessive weight as they age, so you’ll need to give your Cocker Spaniel smaller portions. To make the most of the reduced amount of food, make sure you provide good quality dog food that’s highly nutritious.

Puppy Food

Puppies require food specifically formulated for their growing bodies. As mentioned, look for DHA in your puppy chow to ensure improved brain development.

Joint Health

Finally, as your Cocker Spaniel ages, they may develop hip and joint issues. Look for dog foods that contain glucosamine. Chondroitin is another helpful ingredient for easing joint pain and improving lessened mobility.

Avoiding Ear Infections

Cocker spaniels also suffer from frequent ear infections. While not always the case, a food allergy could be to blame. Allergies vary from dog to dog, but some dog foods are specially formulated to reduce allergic reactions.

The Grain-Free Warning: What You Need to Know

Cocker Spaniels have a predisposition to develop dilated cardiomyopathy, abbreviated as DCM. This canine heart disease weakens the heart muscle.

In a July 2019 special report, the FDA issued an report that potentially links grain-free dog food to the development of DCM. It’s important to note that the FDA has no direct evidence.

The FDA is continuing to research this potential health risk to dogs in close coordination with veterinary cardiologists and nutritionists. Recent research suggests that the link may be partially due to the unusual ingredients used to replace the grains in dog foods.

Our best advice is to consult your veterinarian for the most recent findings and how to adapt your Cocker Spaniel’s diet to their specific needs.

Are male or female Cocker Spaniels better?

The personality traits of this breed vary according to their gender. Females are more sensitive, whereas the males are on the independent side of the scales. Females also get more attached to their owners. On the other hand, a male can do better if left alone. Therefore, which one is better for you depends on your requirements. Whichever one you opt for, do consider spaying or neutering since that improves the dog’s disposition.

Are Cocker Spaniels intelligent?

Yes, this breed is one of the smartest in the category of small and medium-sized dogs. Originally bred as hunters, they possess the quality of outsmarting whoever or whatever they consider the game. However, they are easy to train even for novice pet owners.

Are Cocker Spaniels good family pets?

It depends on what you consider a good family dog. As for Cocker Spaniels, they are among the top 15 registered breeds because they are loved. Their loving nature and calm temperament make them excellent companions. On top of that, they are good with children. If these are the qualities you are looking for, then they are an option for you.

Do Cocker Spaniels sleep a lot?

No, they don’t sleep more than an average dog. Around 12 to 15 hours of sleep is mandatory but other than that, your dog should remain active for the most part. If this isn’t the case, observe your dog carefully, as lethargy can be a sign of a more severe problem. Also, these dogs tend to snuggle and cuddle with their owner a lot.

How long do Cocker Spaniels usually live?

An average healthy Cocker Spaniel can live for 12 to 15 years. Of course, this is affected by a lot of factors, including diet, health, and other environmental conditions. But if you provide a guaranteed healthy lifestyle, expect your dog’s companionship for over a decade!

Do Cocker Spaniels have a lot of health problems?

This breed is no different than any other dog breed. The common dog-related issues are equally likely in a Cocker Spaniel as in another dog. However, there are certain health risks to which this breed is more vulnerable. These include bone dislocation, urinary stones, heart failure, and eye problems. As long as you keep an eye out for the symptoms and offer the right environment along with a balanced diet, you shouldn’t be worried about these health problems.

Final Thoughts

Our recommendation for the best overall dog food in quality and in price goes to Ollie Baked Dog Food since it is AAFCO approved, is an excellent option for all life stages and is delivered straight to your door on a schedule of your choosing.

The Taste of The Wild Grain Free Dry Dog Food earned our second-place pick for being the best value. For a great price, you won’t compromise on quality with balanced nutrition and top-notch ingredients. Taste of the Wild provides a natural source of protein and amino acids and has a flavor most dogs enjoy. It contains essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fatty acids, as well as probiotics for better digestion. It’s made with no corn, wheat, filler, or artificial additives.

We selected ORIJEN High-Protein Dry Dog Food as our premium choice due to its biologically appropriate formula and superior quality ingredients. With this exceptionally high-quality dog food, your Cocker Spaniel will be treated to fresh, raw, whole animal ingredients for a protein-rich meal. Fresh, whole, and locally sourced fruits and vegetables naturally supply additional nutrients. Also, most dogs like the taste.

Your Cocker Spaniel has specific needs when it comes to their choice of food. We hope that our thorough reviews of the best dog foods for Cocker Spaniels, quick-reference pros and cons lists, and informative buyer’s guide have helped you find the best dog food for your Cocker Spaniel. With the right diet, your Cocker Spaniel can lead a healthy and fit life for many years.

Edward Hollon is an avid dog lover and writer, knowing all there is to know about our furry friends. Edward has been writing for petdii for three years now, wanting to use her knowledge for good and share everything she can with new dog owners. Edward has two dogs herself - a German shepherd called Banjo and a chocolate labrador called Buttons. Edward knows more than anyone how adjusting to new life with a puppy can turn your life upside down, and she wants to ease some of the burdens through her articles.