General care for a male Cocker Spaniel

Question
Hi, I have a male cocker who is approx. 7, the reason I say it that way because a family friend who is relocating gave Benz to our family and they told us he was that age.  I really would like to know how to give him the best care possible.  I'm completely new to the care of any pet, but I just adore Benz and want him to live a long healthy life.  I would also like to know what age ranges are considered young and old so I know exactly where Benz falls into.

Answer
I would neuter him if not already.  He is approaching the age where he could be getting cancer.  Neutering eliminates several possibilities.  It also reduces his tendency to go berserk if a female upwind comes into season.  Running off to find her could be fatal.  

If he has been eating a dry dog chow, continue it.  There is a lot of misinformation on dog chows around, much of it spread by those selling expensive dog chows.  The service dog schools that know more about dogs than anybody else that you can trust, feed moderate grade chows, Pro Plan, Iams, etc.  Dogs do fine even on the lower grade stuff, but they produce larger, softer stools that are harder to clean up if you are in a wheel chair or blind.  If not, I would slowly switch him over to one.  Cut out every thing else.

Don't feed too much.  See http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx  Have the vet confirm your judgment of his body condition.  Adjust what you are feeding as needed to bring him into ideal body condition.  He needs to see the vet yearly for shots and a check up.  Most states require annual rabies shots.  He needs heart worm medicine if you have mosquitos in your area.  He may need flea remedies from the vet too. Some things protect against both.  

Smaller dogs live longer.  With good care, he should do well for another 7 years or longer.  I have a Lab that is almost 14, and she is a little frail, but still enjoying live.  

Thank you for taking him, and for asking about the care he needs.