Mini Cocker Spaniel

Question
QUESTION: Have you ever heard of a Miniture Cocker Spaniel? Lilly is my 7 month old Spaniel, she weighs 9lbs and happens to be the cuttest thing i have ever seen! But im a little concerned... she was advertised as a miniture however, no one has ever heard of one, Is she really just a runt? lol. I have seen Lillys parents, they are both tiny, her father weighing 12 lbs and mom coming in at 10. thanks for your input! :)

ANSWER: No, I've never heard of a mini-Cocker.  An average 7 month old would weigh "about" 17 or 18 lbs.  Are you sure it's a "cocker" - there are other spaniels this small?  Where did you find this breeder?  
Delores

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: She was advertised as a "miniature cocker spaniel". I actually got her from a breeder about 45 miles outside of where i live, not sure how reputable she is though. I paid a hefty sum for her so i (mistakenly) assumed she was some adorable breed i had never heard of! if this link works, its a picture of a puppy that looks EXACTLY like lilly at 5 months old.  Thanks again! http://www.pupcity.com/images/adpics/05256134851941_1.jpg

ANSWER: She looks like a cocker.  However, I've never heard of a mini cocker but really - what's the difference?  She's cute - you love her - so just enjoy!  All that matters is she's healthy !!

Do feed a good premium food (no supermarket stuff).  
If you want some recommendations, let me know.  Nutrition is the key to keeping her healthy.
Best of luck,
Delores

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I would love some recommendations! Iv been feeing her Purina Puppy Chow... Thank you so much!

Answer
Purina has everything in it that shouldn't be there.

The label starts with corn.  Indigestible for dogs and many are allergic to it and the ingredient listed first on the label is the most prevalent.  Then "by-products" - "gluten meal" - "soy" - beef tallow - all cheap and non nourishing ingredients.  NONE would ever be in a premium dog food.  All are common allergens.  Purina should be ashamed this food is so inferior.

Now..the Canidae label:

Chicken-chicken broth - lamb - herring - brown rice - eggs - sunflower oil - alfalfa. (This is the chicken/lamb/fish formula).

Quite the difference!

For spaniels I strongly recommend canned instead of kibble.  They are so prone to skin problems and kibble has far too heavy a carb load.

So..Canidae (go to Canidae.com to find a store near you)
AvoDerm (now available at PetSmart)
Merrick
Newman's Organics
Innova
Fromm
Solid Gold
Eagle Pack Holistic

Any pet store that carries Canidae will carry other premium brands.

Get her on a good food - diet is key to health.  Buying cheap dog food is a false economy.
Delores