Cocker Spaniel: Size, Lifespan, Health and Care
Quick answer
PDSA, the UK veterinary charity, puts the Cocker Spaniel at about 38-41 cm tall and 13-14.5 kg, living over 10 years. It suggests at least 1 hour a day, and lists 6 health problems to watch, including hip dysplasia and atopy. Minimum running cost: at least £80 a month, and over £13,000 over a lifetime.
From PDSA, the UK veterinary charity. Not veterinary advice. Worried about your own pet? See who to call.
On this page (7 sections)
Key facts
| Size | Medium |
|---|---|
| Average height | 38-41 cm |
| Average weight | 13-14.5 kg |
| Average lifespan | Over 10 years |
| Exercise | At least 1 hour a day, spread across the day |
| Grooming | High maintenance: daily brushing, and show types may need clipping about every three months |
| Cost | At least £80 a month, and over £13,000 over a lifetime |
Source: PDSA, Cocker Spaniel breed information.
Health problems to watch
PDSA lists these for the breed. A higher risk does not mean every animal will be affected; where a screening scheme or test exists, ask the breeder for the parents' results.
- hip dysplasia (BVA/KC hip scheme)
- atopy (allergic itchy skin and ear infections)
- ear problems
- eye problems, some inherited (BVA/KC testing)
- some auto-immune conditions
- familial nephropathy, adult onset neuropathy and acral mutilation syndrome (DNA testing available)
Source: PDSA, Cocker Spaniel breed information.
Exercise and grooming
PDSA suggests at least 1 hour a day, spread across the day. Grooming: high maintenance: daily brushing, and show types may need clipping about every three months. Source: PDSA, Cocker Spaniel breed information.
Temperament
PDSA describes the breed as lively, clever and people-oriented; patient with children; often a good choice for first-time owners. PDSA says never leave them alone for more than four hours, and that boredom leads to barking and chewing. Source: PDSA, Cocker Spaniel breed information.
Cost
PDSA's figure: at least £80 a month, and over £13,000 over a lifetime. These are minimums that leave out buying the animal and vet bills for illness or injury. More: annual cost of owning a dog and puppy first-year costs. Source: PDSA, Cocker Spaniel breed information.
Questions people ask
How long do Cocker Spaniels live?
PDSA gives an average lifespan of over 10 years.
How much exercise does a Cocker Spaniel need?
PDSA suggests at least 1 hour a day, spread across the day.
What health problems do Cocker Spaniels have?
PDSA lists hip dysplasia (BVA/KC hip scheme); atopy (allergic itchy skin and ear infections); ear problems; eye problems, some inherited (BVA/KC testing); some auto-immune conditions; familial nephropathy, adult onset neuropathy and acral mutilation syndrome (DNA testing available).
How much does a Cocker Spaniel cost?
PDSA's estimate: at least £80 a month, and over £13,000 over a lifetime.
Sources
- PDSA, Cocker Spaniel breed information, read 7 November 2026.
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