The One Minute Guide to Cocker Spaniel Training and Health Issues

As dog owners, most of us experience our share of problems. Our pets will dig, chew, scratch, whine or bark at the least convenient time. We are faced with canine health issues that require attention.

So, if you own a Cocker Spaniel or are in the process of bringing one home, problems are a very real prospect, especially if the dog isn’t properly trained from a young age. To help with each of these problems, here are some general problems plus solutions.

Aggression

The Cocker Spaniel is usually a happy, confident and intelligent dog that has a loving personality when properly trained. They like to play and have absolutely tons of energy. The breed was initially designed to help hunters eliminate woodcocks and can be recognized as hunting dogs or field dogs. Sure the dog has an inherited drive to get excited and aggressive as he pursues being a working dog.

The urge can worsen if the dog is not properly socialized at a young age.

They can easily become restless, overreact to certain situations, and become aggressive around the house. This is not to say that all Cocker Spaniels exhibit this behavior, but it is a possible outcome and one that all Cocker Spaniel owners should be aware of.

The best technique for circumventing Cocker Spaniel aggression would be to socialize your puppy at a young age and maintain a powerful alpha presence in the home at all times. Your cocker needs to recognize that you are in charge and that he must give in to you for all the answers.

This will show them that they don’t need to be pushy when you’re home because you’ll handle any issues that may arise.

hunting unit

Another side result related to their hunting past is their instinct to chase down other creatures they perceive as prey. This could be anything from small animals like squirrels to the neighborhood cats.

It’s a good idea to socialize your puppy with the neighbor’s pets when they are young. Cocker Spaniel problems can become terribly severe extremely quickly if the dog starts to get aggressive towards his neighbor’s animals.

separation anxiety

Cocker Spaniels do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. They may become restless and begin to show signs of intense apprehension.

Not only will the dog bark while you’re away, but he could injure himself by pulling his hair, scratching his paws, breaking his teeth, or making a mess in your house.

This is a major concern for many of the explanations, one of which is the sanctity of your home. For any Cocker Spaniel with an anxiety problem, teach the dog from a young age not to seek attention beforehand or once he leaves or returns home.

Also, this should be taught to your entire family. Even a single person “saying goodbye” to a dog can create feelings of anxiety.

neurosis

In addition to separation anxiety, cocker spaniels can become neurotic from multiple issues: digging, scratching, eating, or other common behaviors. This can be noticed simply by keeping the dog busy and giving it plenty of exercise. One to 2 hours a day in one form or another is normal.

This is especially important during the first 2 years of owning a Cocker Spaniel. If you find it hard to spend appropriate time with your Cocker, you may want to consider a different breed that is better for spending time alone.

On the other hand, you can think of a second dog for company, this will work like magic. However, this does not relieve the owner of their duty to provide the proper exercise and attention that the dogs require.

Cocker Spaniel problems and training are similar with most dogs. It should be kept in mind that health problems and issues can grow exponentially if not carefully nipped in the bud during the early stages. Of specific concern are the eyes and ears of the Cocker Spaniel. Regular maintenance is vital to keep these problems at bay.

Take the time to address general aggressive tendencies while building a connection with your pup early on. Being aware of hereditary health problems will help ensure that your Cocker remains physically fit and cheerful throughout his life.