Cocker Spaniel Grooming Guide: Costs, Cuts & Care Tips (2026)

Cocker Spaniel Grooming Costs

Here's what to expect for professional Cocker Spaniel grooming based on size and service type:

Size	Weight	Basic Groom	Full Groom
American Cocker Spaniel	20-30 lbs	$60-$80	$80-$100
English Cocker Spaniel	26-34 lbs	$65-$85	$85-$105

Annual grooming costs: $480-$800 (based on grooming every 6-8 weeks).

For comparison with other breeds, see our complete dog grooming cost guide.

Cocker Spaniel Coat Type & Care

Cocker Spaniels have a silky, medium-length coat with feathering on the ears, chest, belly, and legs. The coat can be wavy or flat. They shed moderately and require regular grooming to maintain their elegant appearance.

Coat Type	Medium/Wavy
Shedding	Moderate
Grooming Frequency	Every 6-8 weeks
Brushing	Every 2-3 days (daily for show coats)
Grooming Difficulty	Medium

Popular Cocker Spaniel Haircuts

Here are the most popular grooming styles for Cocker Spaniels:

Pet Clip

Best for: Easy maintenance

Shorter body with moderate feathering. Practical for active dogs.

Maintenance: Low-Medium - brush every 2-3 days

Show Cut

Best for: Show dogs, breed enthusiasts

Full feathering on ears, chest, and legs. Classic Cocker look.

Maintenance: High - daily brushing required

Puppy Cut

Best for: Simplified care

Even length all over with trimmed feathering.

Maintenance: Low - easier maintenance

Sporting Clip

Best for: Active, outdoor dogs

Shorter overall with minimal feathering for easier cleaning.

Maintenance: Low - practical for active dogs

Cocker Spaniel Grooming Schedule

Follow this schedule to keep your Cocker Spaniel looking and feeling their best:

Professional grooming: Every 6-8 weeks
Brushing: Every 2-3 days
Bathing: Every 3-4 weeks
Nail trimming: Every 2-3 weeks
Ear cleaning: Weekly (critical for Cockers)

Puppy Grooming

Start handling ears early. Cocker puppies should get used to ear cleaning and grooming from a young age.

Senior Dog Grooming

Older Cockers may have more ear issues. Shorter cuts are often more comfortable. Watch for skin changes.

Find a Cocker Spaniel-experienced groomer

Search our directory for professional groomers experienced with Cocker Spaniels and similar breeds.

Find Groomers Near Me

Common Cocker Spaniel Grooming Problems

Ear Infections

Long, heavy ears trap moisture and debris, making Cockers very prone to ear infections.

Prevention: Weekly ear cleaning is critical. Keep ears dry. Watch for head shaking or odor.

Matting in Feathers

The longer feathering on ears and legs mats easily.

Prevention: Regular brushing of feathered areas. Comb through after walks.

Skin Issues

Cockers can be prone to seborrhea and skin allergies.

Prevention: Regular bathing with appropriate shampoo. Watch for scratching or flaking.

At-Home Cocker Spaniel Grooming

Between professional grooms, here's what you need and how to maintain your Cocker Spaniel's coat at home.

Essential Tools

Slicker brush
Metal comb
Ear cleaner (essential)
Detangling spray
Nail clippers

Grooming Tips

Clean ears weekly - this is critical for Cockers
Brush feathering every 2-3 days
Keep ear hair trimmed for better air circulation
Check for debris in ears after outdoor activities

Finding a 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 Cocker Spaniel:

Look for experience with sporting breeds
Ask about their ear care procedures
Check their work on feathered breeds
Ensure they understand breed-specific cuts

For more tips, see our Signs of a Good Dog Groomer guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Cocker Spaniel grooming cost?▼

Cocker Spaniel grooming costs $60-$100 per session depending on coat condition and style.

How often should a Cocker Spaniel be groomed?▼

Every 6-8 weeks professionally. Regular ear cleaning at home is critical.

Why do Cocker Spaniels get ear infections?▼

Their long, floppy ears trap moisture and restrict air flow, creating an environment for infections.

What is the best haircut for a Cocker Spaniel?▼

The Pet Clip is popular for easy maintenance while keeping some signature feathering.

How do I prevent ear infections in my Cocker?▼

Weekly ear cleaning, keeping ears dry, and regular grooming to remove excess ear hair.

Do Cocker Spaniels shed?▼

Yes, moderately. Regular brushing helps manage shedding and prevents matting.

The Bottom Line

Cocker Spaniel grooming requires professional appointments every 6-8 weeks, with costs ranging based on size and service level. Regular at-home maintenance between appointments keeps your Cocker Spaniel looking and feeling their best.

Find a groomer experienced with Cocker Spaniels, establish a consistent grooming schedule, and maintain regular brushing at home. Your Cocker Spaniel will thank you with a healthy, beautiful coat.