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| ENGLISH COCKER SPANIEL CARE |
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| New Puppy Coming Home |
| This is a joyous time in the household if you
remember three little words...firm, fair and consistent! Abiding
by these words will ensure a very rewarding lifetime companionship
between you and your dog. |
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| Housebreaking |
| Puppy must always go outside immediately after
eating, playing, sleeping or every hour. It is very important to
follow these simple rules:
1. Take puppy out the same door every
time.
2. Take puppy to same spot outside every time.
3. Use a leash to take puppy outside.
4. Potty time is not play time.
5. As soon as puppy goes potty bring him back inside.
6. If puppy does not go within 5 minutes outside bring him back
inside and put him in his crate for about 10 minutes and then
try again.
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| Puppyproof your Home |
| Puppies are like babies, they want to explore
and everything goes into the mouth!! Here is a list of some important
things to consider:
1. Keep all household cleaners, mothballs,
antifreeze, etc. in a closed or preferably locked cabinet.
2. No toxic plants should be within reach of puppy.
3. Check for electrical cords, plugs in tempting positions for
puppy to chew, plastic bags and any of your children’s small
toys or parts of small toys.
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| Supplies for Puppy |
| There are certain things your puppy will need
as soon as he arrives in your home. In order to make homecoming
smooth buy these items in advance of the big arrival day.
1.
Crate
2. Water and Food Bowls
3. Puppy Food
4. Hard Nylon Bones (this may go with puppy in crate when you
leave him)
5. Squeak toys that are large enough that puppy cannot swallow.
(this may not go in crate when you leave him.
6. Collar and Leash
7. Comb and Brush
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| Socialization |
| Your English Cocker will have been socialized
by the breeder before you bring him home, however, it is your job
to continue the socialization process. Always include puppy in your
activities. For example when people come to your home for a visit
have them spend a little time with the puppy. Petting him and talking
to him and holding him. It is suggested that you give the visitors
his favorite toy and let them play with him. If he is always in
the midst of your activities he will begin to gain confidence for
all situations that he will be in through out his life. You will
have a well adjusted dog as your special companion. |
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| Veterinary Care |
| When you purchase your puppy you will receive
a brochure from your breeder as to the vaccines and other veterinary
care the puppy has had prior to his homecoming with you. It is now
your responsibility to keep puppy healthy and happy. Establish yourself
with a veterinarian near where you live. Take the puppy for a visit
and checkup to meet the Doctor and office staff. By securing a good
business relationship with the veterinary office you will then be
assured of quality care for your dog throughout his life. |
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| Training |
| It is always suggested to start puppy in a kindergarten
class at about 12 weeks. This class is very loosely structured and
will help you and puppy learn some basic obedience and ring skills
as well as socialization with other dogs. Talk with your breeder
about which type of classes they recommend. |
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| Grooming |
| Last but certainly not least lets talk about
grooming. This can look like an insurmountable task when puppy reaches
the age of about six to eight months. They have coat everywhere!!!!
With the proper tools and a little time from you, puppy can always
look fabulous. Here are a few tips to help you with your English
Cocker grooming:
1. Completely comb out puppy every other day.
This should only take you about 10 minutes even after he has his
beautiful coat.
2. Coat King - this is a tool that you will use on the dogs “pattern”
to keep him looking show ring perfect all the time. Talk to your
breeder about this tool.
3. Every two weeks, after puppy has had a complete comb out he
should have a bath and then be blown dry with a pin brush and
hair dryer. Keep the dryer on warm not hot!! Your own hand held
hair dryer is fine. Use a dog shampoo that your breeder recommends.
4. Most all of the products that I have mentioned above can be
purchased at pet stores, catalogs, or dog show sites.
5. For more complete instructions for grooming talk with your
breeder.
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| Dear Reader and Proud English Cocker
Owner |
| I hope that these tips and suggestions
will help you with your new puppy. Please remember you can always
contact your breeder if you have any questions or just need to discuss
something in more detail.
You have chosen an English
Cocker Spaniel for your companion. I wish you much happiness and
many years with your dear and special friend.
Best regards,
 CathyAnn |
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