Cocker Spaniels are affectionate, merry dogs with those signature long, heavy ears — which are also the source of their most common health expense. Combined with a notable list of eye conditions and skin sensitivity, this is a breed whose everyday vet costs add up. Here's what Canadian owners should plan for.
Common Cocker Spaniel health issues
| Condition | How common | Typical treatment cost (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Chronic ear infections (long, heavy ears) | Very common — the defining ongoing cost | Low to moderate per episode, frequently recurring |
| Cherry eye (prolapsed third-eyelid gland) | Common — often bilateral | Moderate surgery, per eye |
| Glaucoma and other eye disease | Breed-associated | High — can threaten vision; ongoing |
| Skin conditions (allergies, seborrhea) | Common | Variable, often ongoing |
| Hip dysplasia | Moderate | High if surgical |
| Autoimmune conditions (e.g. AIHA) | Elevated relative to some breeds | High if it occurs |
| Ear hematoma (from head shaking) | Common secondary to ear infections | Moderate; may need surgery |
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Our Recommendation
For a Cocker Spaniel, comprehensive coverage with a wellness add-on, enrolled early, is a strong fit. This is a 'frequent moderate-cost events' breed — recurring ear and eye problems mean you'll use the policy regularly, and a wellness add-on helps with the routine ear cleaning and maintenance. Enrol before any ear, eye, or skin condition is documented, since these breed-prone issues become pre-existing exclusions fast.
Frequently asked questions
Are Cocker Spaniels expensive to insure?
Premiums are moderate, but the claim frequency is what stands out — recurring ear infections, eye conditions, and skin issues mean the policy is used regularly. For this breed, comprehensive coverage tends to deliver clear ongoing value rather than just catastrophic protection.
Why do Cocker Spaniels get so many ear infections?
Their long, heavy, hair-covered ears trap moisture and reduce airflow, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and yeast. Many Cockers have recurring infections throughout life, sometimes pointing to an underlying allergy. Regular ear cleaning helps, and comprehensive coverage handles treatment. See our ear infection cost guide.
Is cherry eye common in the breed?
Yes — Cocker Spaniels are among the breeds prone to cherry eye, and it's often bilateral (affecting both eyes, though not always at once). Surgical repositioning is the standard fix. Once one eye is documented, insurers may exclude the condition bilaterally — another reason to insure early. See our cherry eye cost guide.
Should I worry about glaucoma?
It's worth knowing about. Cocker Spaniels have elevated risk of glaucoma, which raises pressure inside the eye and can cause vision loss if not caught early. It often needs ongoing management. Comprehensive coverage helps if it's not a pre-existing condition — yet another argument for enrolling before any eye issue appears.