How Heavy Do Cocker Spaniels Get? Essential Insights
Cocker Spaniels are lovable furballs known for their boundless energy and affectionate nature. But for us, it’s not just about bringing one home and playing with them all day. To keep our spaniel friend healthy and happy, it’s important to understand their growth patterns and ideal weight.
Knowing the ideal weight of a Cocker Spaniel is also essential when adopting a new pup, as a dog’s weight is a key indicator of its health. Cocker Spaniels are medium-sized dogs and are not considered a heavy breed.
Adult male Cocker Spaniels typically weigh between 25-30 pounds (11-14 kg), while females usually weigh between 20-25 pounds (9-11 kg).
What Is The Average Cocker Spaniel Weight?
Cocker Spaniels come in all shapes and sizes—just like us. They can weigh anywhere between 18 to 35 pounds, or even more. Many people wonder about their typical weight, often seeing an average of around 11-15 kilograms online.
But it’s important to remember that this can vary depending on whether we’re talking about English Cockers, American Cockers, show dogs, or working dogs.
The Ideal Cocker Spaniel Weight
Honestly, there’s no such thing as a perfect or exact weight for a Cocker Spaniel. A Cocker Spaniel at 38 lbs (17 kg) can be at its perfect weight. The main factors to consider here are whether it’s a male or female and if it’s an English or American Cocker Spaniel. A fully grown Cocker Spaniel can weigh between 25-35 lbs (11-16 kg).
For an English Cocker Spaniel, 30-35 lbs (14-16 kg) is perfect. On the other hand, for American Cocker Spaniels, a weight of 25-30 lbs (11-14 kg) is just right.
English Cocker Spaniel: Average Weight by Age
Generally, English Cocker Spaniels are larger and heavier than American Cockers. Cocker Spaniels stop growing in height between 9 and 12 months, but their weight can continue to increase. The following chart will help you take a deeper look at your English Cocker Spaniel’s weight by age and gender.
| Age (Months) | Male Weight (lbs) | Male Weight (KGs) | Female Weight (lbs) | Female Weight (KGs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 – 5 | 0.9 – 2.3 | 2 – 4.5 | 0.9 – 2.0 |
| 2 | 4 – 11 | 1.8 – 5.0 | 4 – 10 | 1.8 – 4.5 |
| 3 | 8 – 15 | 3.6 – 6.8 | 8 – 14 | 3.6 – 6.4 |
| 4 | 12 – 20 | 5.4 – 9.1 | 12 – 18 | 5.4 – 8.2 |
| 5 | 14 – 24 | 6.4 – 10.9 | 14 – 22 | 6.4 – 10.0 |
| 6 | 16 – 28 | 7.3 – 12.7 | 16 – 24 | 7.3 – 10.9 |
| 7 | 18 – 30 | 8.2 – 13.6 | 18 – 26 | 8.2 – 11.8 |
| 8 | 20 – 32 | 9.1 – 14.5 | 20 – 28 | 9.1 – 12.7 |
| 9 | 22 – 34 | 10 – 15.5 | 22 – 30 | 10 – 13.6 |
| 10 | 24 – 36 | 10.9 – 16.4 | 24 – 32 | 10.9 – 14.5 |
| 11 | 26 – 38 | 11.8 – 17.3 | 26 – 34 | 11.8 – 15.5 |
| 12 | 28 – 40 | 12.7 – 18.2 | 28 – 36 | 12.7 – 16.4 |
| 12+ | 30 – 40 | 13.6 – 18.2 | 30 – 36 | 13.6 – 16.4 |
These figures are averages and can vary depending on your dog’s genetics, diet, and overall health. If you have any concerns about your Cocker Spaniel’s growth or weight, it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian.
American Cocker Spaniel: Average Weight by Age
The American Cocker Spaniel is slightly smaller than the English Cocker Spaniel, with different growth patterns. It’s all like having children, it’s difficult to tell. The size of parents can give some indication but there is no guarantee that this will turn out so.
| Age (Months) | Male Weight (lbs) | Male Weight (KGs) | Female Weight (lbs) | Female Weight (KGs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2-3 | 0.9-1.4 | 2-3 | 0.9-1.4 |
| 2 | 4-5 | 1.8-2.3 | 4-5 | 1.8-2.3 |
| 3 | 8-11 | 3.6-5 | 7-10 | 3.2-4.5 |
| 4 | 12-15 | 5.4-6.8 | 11-14 | 5-6.4 |
| 5 | 14-18 | 6.4-8.2 | 13-16 | 5.9-7.3 |
| 6 | 16-20 | 7.3-9.1 | 15-19 | 6.8-8.6 |
| 7 | 18-22 | 8.2-10 | 16-21 | 7.3-9.5 |
| 8 | 20-24 | 9.1-10.9 | 17-23 | 7.7-10.4 |
| 9 | 22-26 | 10-11.8 | 18-24 | 8.2-10.9 |
| 10 | 23-27 | 10.4-12.3 | 19-25 | 8.6-11.3 |
| 11 | 24-28 | 10.9-12.7 | 20-26 | 9.1-11.8 |
| 12 | 25-30 | 11.3-13.6 | 21-27 | 9.5-12.3 |
| 12+ | 26-30 | 11.8-13.6 | 22-28 | 10-12.7 |
This chart represents typical weight ranges and growth patterns for American Cocker Spaniels from birth to adulthood. Remember, every puppy is unique, so it’s important to reach out to your vet for specific concerns or variations in your puppy’s growth.
Working Cocker Spaniels Weight Range
Show Cockers typically feature longer legs, ears, and coats, giving them a larger stature compared to their working counterparts. Working Cocker Spaniels usually weigh between 26 to 34 pounds (12 to 15.5 kg), although individual weights can vary.
A working Cocker Spaniel might appear slim, and it’s common for people to comment that they look too skinny. Give your spaniel a visual check: if your dog looks healthy and fit, they likely are at the right weight. Focus on your dog’s appearance and health rather than comparing them to other dogs. If you have concerns, consult a vet. Many vet practices have nurses who can weigh your dog and provide personalized advice.
Working Cocker Spaniels can vary significantly in size and frame; some are smaller, while others are larger. These dogs are typically very active, burning off energy quickly due to their constant activity. Working Cockers mostly have pure muscle with no visible fat, and while you should be able to feel their ribs, you shouldn’t be able to see them.
Measuring Weight Accurately
Before anything else, how much does your Spaniel weigh exactly? If we don’t weigh our Spaniel correctly, we can’t judge whether the weight is right or not. There are two main methods to weigh your dog.
Using a Weighing Machine:
If your Spaniel is up to 6 months old, you can easily check their weight using a bathroom scale. Since dogs tend to move a lot, ensure your dog’s entire body is on the weighing machine. Here’s a simple method:
- Weigh the Bucket: Take an empty bucket and check its weight. Note down the weight of the bucket.
- Weigh the Dog: Place your dog in the bucket and check the combined weight.
- Calculate the Dog’s Weight: Subtract the weight of the empty bucket from the total weight. The remaining number is your puppy’s weight.
If your Spaniel is an adult and doesn’t fit in a basket, you’ll need a larger scale. Follow these steps to measure your dog’s weight:
- Weigh Yourself: Stand on the scale and record your weight.
- Weigh Yourself with the Dog: Hold your dog and weigh yourself again. Be sure to stay as still as possible to avoid affecting the measurement.
- Calculate Your Dog’s Weight: Subtract your recorded weight from the total weight. The difference is your dog’s weight.
Through a Vet Clinic:
The best way to determine your dog’s weight is to have a vet check it. Veterinary nurses can assist with weighing your dog, and this service is often provided at no extra cost.
Factors affecting height and Weight:
There are certain factors that can give you an idea of what weight your Spaniel should be. These factors can also explain why your Spaniel’s weight may be more or less than others.
Gender:
Female Cocker Spaniels, in both American and English breeds, are generally smaller than their males. This difference isn’t just in size but also in weight. The only time female Spaniels weigh more than males is during pregnancy. Otherwise, male Spaniels are visibly larger and heavier.
Age:
It’s common sense that age affects weight. We can’t expect a 2-month-old Spaniel puppy to weigh 30 pounds. As muscles and bones develop, weight increases gradually.
Health:
A Cocker Spaniel’s health condition plays a crucial role. It affects the size, weight, and even the lifespan of your Spaniel. If you can feel but not see the ribs, and there is a definite ‘waist’ when looking down at your dog, they are in perfect shape. If you are having difficulty feeling your dog’s ribs or there is a lack of a noticeable waistline, your Spaniel is most likely overweight.
Additionally, there should be a layer of fat covering the hipbones, but the hipbones should not be protruding. Proper amount of exercise and a healthy diet are essential for maintaining an ideal weight. Very active dogs might not gain weight as easily.
However, overweight dogs are at a higher risk for heart disease and respiratory problems. Diabetes is also a significant concern for these dogs. Additionally, excess weight can lead to joint issues like arthritis or hip dysplasia. Obesity can lead to skin fold issues and infections. If any of these problems occur, consult a vet nearer to you as soon as possible.
Breed:
As we’ve talked about before, American Cocker Spaniels usually weigh less than English Cocker Spaniels, so there’s no need to compare the two. Cocker Spaniels can come in all shapes and sizes, from large-boned and sturdy to fine-boned and petite. Your dog’s weight also depends on how much protein they’re getting and how active they are.
Maintaining a Healthy and Ideal Weight
While exercise and activity levels affect weight, diet is still the top priority. A balanced diet with sufficient proteins, carbohydrates, fatty acids, and minerals is enough to manage 80% of a dog’s health. Other factors like walking, exercising, and playing contribute to achieving a 100% perfect dog weight. Since Cocker Spaniels are a sporting breed, they need a lot of energy and require high-quality food and minerals.
To help your spaniel maintain a healthy weight, make sure to:
- Frequent Health Checks: Take your spaniel to the vet every 3-6 months, even if there are no visible issues. It’s suggested to check your Spaniel’s thyroid levels, as low thyroid can cause overweight in cocker spaniels.
- Healthy Treats: Dogs love treats, and they’re great for training too! Offer baby carrots, green beans, cucumbers, apple slices, and other healthy options. This way, your dog gets tasty rewards without the extra calories.
- Regular Grooming: Regular cleaning and grooming are essential for your spaniel’s overall health. Proper grooming helps maintain a healthy coat and skin, and it also allows you to check for any signs of health issues. Clean your spaniel’s ears, brush their coat, and keep their teeth clean to ensure they stay healthy and happy.
Remember, don’t overfeed, as this can cause obesity, which is common in Cocker Spaniels.
Weight Tracking:
Regularly monitor your Spaniel’s weight to catch any changes early. This will help you make necessary adjustments to their diet and exercise routine to keep them healthy and fit. There are also pet weight tracking apps available online that can help you keep a record of your dog’s weight over time. Keep a weight log and ask your vet for any specific recommendations.
Here is a printable dog weight tracker for you:
FAQ’s:
What age are Cocker Spaniels fully grown?
Cocker Spaniels are fully grown between 1.5 to 2 years. They stop increasing in size but their weight can still increase with time.
How heavy do Cocker Spaniels get in kg?
Cocker Spaniels can weigh as little as 13.5 kg and up to a maximum of 18 kg. However, variations can still occur due to health, gender, or breed differences.
How heavy do Cocker Spaniels get in pounds?
If we take weight in pounds, Spaniels can hit 30 lbs up to 40 lbs.
How heavy do Cocker Spaniels get at 8 weeks?
An 8 weeks Cocker Spaniel can be 4-5 pounds. At this age, both male and female puppies have a same weight.
When does a Spaniel reaches it’s maximum weight?
Cocker spaniel reach their maximum weight at 10-15 months of age. Here comes the stage where you have to maintain the weight throughout your dog’s life.