Quick Answer:
American Cocker Spaniel grooming costs $65-$100 every 4-6 weeks. Their silky coat requires regular professional grooming and daily brushing to prevent matting. Hand-stripping or clipping maintains the proper coat texture.
American Cocker Spaniel Grooming Costs
Here's what to expect for professional American Cocker Spaniel grooming based on size and service type:
| Size | Weight | Basic Groom | Full Groom |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Cocker Spaniel | 20-30 lbs | $65-$80 | $80-$100 |
Annual grooming costs: $780-$1,200 (based on grooming every 4-6 weeks).
For comparison with other breeds, see our complete dog grooming cost guide.
American Cocker Spaniel Coat Type & Care
American Cocker Spaniels have a silky, flat or slightly wavy coat with abundant feathering on ears, chest, belly, and legs. The coat is medium to long length and prone to matting without regular care.
| Coat Type | Long |
| Shedding | Moderate |
| Grooming Frequency | Every 4-6 weeks |
| Brushing | Daily |
| Grooming Difficulty | High |
Popular American Cocker Spaniel Haircuts
Here are the most popular grooming styles for American Cocker Spaniels:
Puppy Cut
Best for: Low-maintenance pet owners
Body and legs trimmed to 1-2 inches for easier care while maintaining some feathering on ears.
Maintenance: Medium - brush every other day
Cocker Cut (Show Style)
Best for: Traditional Cocker appearance
Short on back and sides, longer skirt and leg feathering, sculpted head and ears.
Maintenance: High - daily brushing required
Sporting Trim
Best for: Active dogs
Shorter overall with minimal feathering for practicality. Easy to maintain.
Maintenance: Low-Medium - brush 2-3 times weekly
Teddy Bear Cut
Best for: Cute, fluffy appearance
Even length all over with rounded face, creating soft teddy bear look.
Maintenance: Medium - brush every other day
American Cocker Spaniel Grooming Schedule
Follow this schedule to keep your American Cocker Spaniel looking and feeling their best:
- Professional grooming: Every 4-6 weeks
- Brushing: Daily
- Bathing: Every 2-3 weeks
- Nail trimming: Every 2-3 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Weekly (critical)
Puppy Grooming
Start grooming early to get puppies used to handling. Pay special attention to ear care from the beginning.
Senior Dog Grooming
Older Cockers may need shorter clips for comfort. Watch for skin issues and lumps.
Find a American Cocker Spaniel-experienced groomer
Search our directory for professional groomers experienced with American Cocker Spaniels and similar breeds.
Find Groomers Near MeCommon American Cocker Spaniel Grooming Problems
Ear Infections
Long, heavy ears trap moisture and debris, making Cockers extremely prone to ear infections.
Prevention: Weekly ear cleaning, keep ears dry, consider ear powder.
Matting
Silky coat mats easily, especially behind ears, under legs, and in feathering.
Prevention: Daily brushing and regular professional grooming.
Eye Staining
Tear staining common, especially in lighter-colored dogs.
Prevention: Keep face clean and dry, consider tear stain remover.
At-Home American Cocker Spaniel Grooming
Between professional grooms, here's what you need and how to maintain your American Cocker Spaniel's coat at home.
Essential Tools
- Slicker brush
- Pin brush
- Metal comb
- Ear cleaner
- Detangling spray
- Thinning shears
Grooming Tips
- Clean ears weekly to prevent infections
- Brush daily, focusing on feathering
- Keep hair around paw pads trimmed
- Watch for tear staining
- Consider a snood during meals
Finding a American Cocker Spaniel-Experienced Groomer
Not all groomers are equally experienced with every breed. Here's what to look for when choosing a groomer for your American Cocker Spaniel:
- Find groomers experienced with Cocker Spaniels
- Ask about their approach to ear care
- Look for breed-specific styling experience
- Ensure they check ears thoroughly
For more tips, see our Signs of a Good Dog Groomer guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does American Cocker Spaniel grooming cost?▼
$65-$100 per session depending on coat condition and style.
How often should a Cocker Spaniel be groomed?▼
Every 4-6 weeks professionally with daily brushing at home.
Why do Cocker Spaniels get ear infections?▼
Their long, heavy ears trap moisture and restrict airflow, creating ideal conditions for infection.
What is the easiest Cocker Spaniel haircut?▼
The puppy cut or sporting trim are easiest to maintain.
Do Cocker Spaniels shed a lot?▼
They shed moderately. Regular grooming helps manage loose hair.
How do I prevent my Cocker Spaniel from matting?▼
Daily brushing and regular professional grooming every 4-6 weeks.
The Bottom Line
American Cocker Spaniel grooming requires professional appointments every 4-6 weeks, with costs ranging based on size and service level. Regular at-home maintenance between appointments keeps your American Cocker Spaniel looking and feeling their best.
Find a groomer experienced with American Cocker Spaniels, establish a consistent grooming schedule, and maintain regular brushing at home. Your American Cocker Spaniel will thank you with a healthy, beautiful coat.
Related Breed Guides
Find a American Cocker Spaniel Groomer Near You
Search for professional groomers experienced with American Cocker Spaniels.
Search Groomers