What to Know About English Cocker Spaniels

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English Cocker Spaniels are a breed with specific health considerations, including susceptibility to tick infestations and heart conditions like DCM. Probiotic supplementation can enhance their nutritional health, while awareness of potential drug resistances and nutritional deficiencies is crucial for their overall well-being. Understanding these aspects can help in providing better care and improving the quality of life for English Cocker Spaniels.

Susceptibility to Tick Infestations

English Cocker Spaniels are more susceptible to tick infestations compared to other breeds like Beagles. This increased susceptibility is due to lower production of natural volatile tick repellents such as 2-hexanone and benzaldehyde. Research has shown that using slow-release formulations of these compounds can significantly reduce tick infestations in English Cocker Spaniels without affecting the biological and reproductive parameters of the ticks1.

Heart Health and Dilated Cardiomyopathy

English Cocker Spaniels can suffer from dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a condition that affects the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively. A study involving the use of pimobendan, a calcium-sensitizing inodilator, showed significant improvement in heart failure class for English Cocker Spaniels with DCM when added to standard therapy. However, the treatment did not significantly affect survival rates in this breed, unlike in Doberman Pinschers, where it improved survival times2.

Nutritional Health and Probiotics

The nutritional status and gastrointestinal health of English Cocker Spaniels can be enhanced by dietary supplements. A study found that supplementing their diet with the probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus D2/CSL improved faecal parameters and helped maintain an ideal body condition score. This suggests that probiotics can support the overall well-being and gastrointestinal health of English Cocker Spaniels, even in the absence of gastrointestinal disorders3.

Resistance to Anthelmintic Drugs

English Cocker Spaniels, like other breeds, can be affected by hookworm infections. A study conducted in a kennel with multiple dog breeds, including English Cocker Spaniels, found resistance to several major classes of anthelmintic drugs. However, the hookworms were susceptible to emodepside, indicating the need for alternative treatments in cases of drug resistance4.

Taurine and Carnitine Supplementation

In American Cocker Spaniels, a related breed, taurine and carnitine deficiencies have been linked to DCM. Supplementation with these nutrients has shown to improve heart function and allow discontinuation of cardiovascular drugs, suggesting potential benefits for English Cocker Spaniels as well. This highlights the importance of monitoring and managing nutritional deficiencies to support heart health in these dogs5.