What Type of Shampoo to Use on a Cocker Spaniel

The cocker spaniel is described as a "merry, well-balanced dog," and one of the most popular, by the American Kennel Club. Bred originally for hunting, the cocker spaniel is nonetheless considered a good family pet, although this medium-sized breed is active and energetic, requiring daily exercise. The coat of this dog is of medium length and silky, flat, or slightly wavy on the body; short and fine on the head; and feathered on the legs. It does not require excessive care, according to the AKC; occasional grooming and bathing should suffice to keep the dog looking good. Choose a shampoo that meets the needs of your particular cocker.

  1. Shampoo for Skin Issues

    • Jim Zimmerlin, who bred cocker spaniels for more than 15 years, recommends green tea shampoo. "It's great for their skin...and it smells good," he reports. Green tea is said to have healing properties and shampoos containing green tea relieve itching caused by skin allergies, hot spots, dermatitis and flea bites. Other shampoos for skin issues include those that are oatmeal-based; hypo-allergenic; antimicrobial; or anti-itch formulas containing forms of cortisone. If you use any of these shampoos to address your cocker's skin issues, and the dog continues to scratch or develops irritated skin, consult your veterinarian.

    Shampoo to Brighten the Coat

    • If your cocker has any white fur, you may want to use a shampoo that will brighten and revitalize it. These shampoos -- one brand is designed by a famous human hair stylist -- often have herbs, such as chamomile and calendula, as well as oils of almond and coconut. They not only brighten the coat, whatever the color, but also impart a pleasant odor.

    Shampoo to Kill Ticks and Fleas

    • If you need to rid your cocker of ticks and fleas, you have many choices of shampoos. However, consider a formula with a plant-based insecticide, such as pyrethrin. Before you buy any flea and tick shampoo, identify the active ingredients. If the product description does not offer this information, you may want to look elsewhere. If you do decide to go with a shampoo containing chemicals other than natural, ask your vet about the effects on dogs before using on your cocker.

    All Purpose Shampoos

    • You have as many choices of dog shampoos as you do for yourself, so prioritize if you are looking for an all-purpose option. Use your nose: do you want your dog to smell like lavender or coconut? Consider your cocker and buy a tearless shampoo. If you want a shampoo that addresses more than one issue, look for a formula that serves multiple purposes.

    Special Consideration: Ears

    • If you get water or shampoo in your cocker's ears, dry them thoroughly on the inside to prevent infection. Cocker spaniels have long ears with fine fur inside and out, restricting ventilation and making them prone to ear infections. You can minimize infections by cleaning the ears regularly using a cleaner designed for this purpose and available at pet stores or through online pet product sites. On his Zim Family Cockers web site, Jim Zimmerlin offers a recipe using isopropyl alcohol, boric acid, vinegar, and antiseptic solution. Signs of infection include frequent scratching, an unpleasant odor emanating from the ear, a build-up of wax, or extreme sensitivity to being touched around the ears. See your vet if your dog exhibits any of these symptoms.