It would be best to have those pups well-behaved and mellow. Timing is crucial for all of your commands, and you and your dog will only get better with practice. Dog behavior is still a mystery to humans, especially aggressive behaviour. The Truth About These Sniffers, 9 Golden Retriever Breeders In North Carolina In 2022. Preventing aggression in Cocker Spaniels is a multifaceted approach. What can I do to get him to pay attention to me? They dont have the longest attention span, so short sessions a few times a day will provide better results than longer sessions. These little dogs will make great additions to almost any family situation, and can be easily trained to be beloved members of any household. Expose your dog to as many situations, dogs, people, etc., during this time. This is where we step in! Cocker Spaniels are generally loving dogs that enjoy cuddle time and prefer being active. We've seen that some may be a little sensitive and need gentle handling, but we know that by giving your puppy lots of early socialization and using. They are eager to please, love being with family members, and are a very merry, jovial dog. Some Cocker Spaniels, especially adolescents and young adults, are excessively submissive. Bred as hunting dogs, Cocker Spaniels do still have a strong hunting instinct, which makes them highly alert to the presence of birds or other small animals. Well follow up with a 25% off coupon code! That's becauseRage syndrome in Cocker Spaniels is rare. A puppy begins socializing with other littermates, making the job already half-done. Punishing the dog physically can only result in growling or snapping. The smallest Sporting Breed recognized by the American Kennel Club, Cocker Spaniels are highly energetic, making them very active and playful dogs. Luna with Bella the cat, quite possibly plotting trouble. Female Cocker Spaniel: The Sweetest Dilemma Ever, [] you need to pay attention to is that your kids dont handle Cocker Spaniels roughly because they can become aggressive and defiant, especially males. just to understand what it's all about. I was stunned to find out that these big dogs in a little package are not common obedience prospects. You may not be able to completely eliminate the behavior, but should be able to correct it to the point that they will not become aggressive if something is taken away. very useful, and it will show you how to manage dog behaviour problems that you may see beginning to develop in your pet. If your Cocker Spaniel refuses to share his toys, don't try to take them away from him as it could prove to be dangerous. Information and advice given on this site are meant for educational purposes only. About Cocker Spaniels - Celebrating Happy, Healthy, Puppies and Dogs! It's recommended reading whether or not your dog is dominant because it will help you to teach your dog some polite manners. He can also resemble a Cocker Spaniels aggressive behavior [], 24 Best Family Dog Breeds That Will Brighten Your Life, [] Cocker Spaniels are generally friendly and loving dogs who get on well with other dogs and humans. Your dedication to patient training is extra important if you perhaps have a cocker that may be a little stubborn. They miss you so much that they become miserable, lonely, boredand that's when the trouble begins! Cocker Spaniel Feeding Chart: How Much And What Do Cockers Eat? Get a coupon for 30% off a future order when you join our newsletter! This breed is well-known for showing affection to their family and being very responsive to obedience training, especially with praises and rewards afterward. Information contained or made available through the Canna-Pet website is not intended to constitute or substitute for legal advice or veterinary advice. An American Cocker Spaniel may not be right for you. They can be timid, submissive, and very reserved almost uninterested. Overall, the Cocker Spaniel temperament and personality is one of a very happy, social, friendly dog who will make a great family pet in any home. Aggression can usually be prevented through obedience training and early socialization. Sometimes Cockers can be possessive around their toys. But trust me, you are unlikely to ever see it in your lifetime (unless you're very unlucky). A word of caution, however. Please distinguish this behavior from a Cockers curiosity trait. Wrong. With the technique of luring you can now build your arsenal with more commands, such as stay, where you reward your dog for staying seated while you move back a few steps, gradually extending the distance away and time in the sit position. social@canna-pet.com Also, English Cocker Spaniels are specifically affected. This requires a level of companionship; you either take the dog with you or make it up to him in another way. + Get a coupon for 30% off a future order. This should be stopped in early puppyhood. However, you should be aware that once a dog has displayed food aggression, there's always the possibility of this behaviour returning later, at some point in his life. But, it must feel safe and make the other dogs feel safe, too. As mentioned above, some Cocker Spaniels are known to develop a strong will, making them a bit stubborn. We took on a 4 year old Cocker spaniel she is besotted with my husband also with a ball she throws it at my husband. It is believed that this started from a Crufts best-of-breed champion back in the late 50s and early 60s. Without a doubt, the Spaniel is a beautiful looking dog; their adoring brown eyes and soft, droopy ears, their silky, soft coat, but most of all,it's their loving temperamentthat makes them the most popular of the Spaniel breed. If not, this is when they can become stubborn, or overly sensitive. As with any industry, unscrupulous trainers are around that can be unqualified, so just beware. It is caused by a lack of socialization with humans and other dogs, and also by genetic issues as with rage syndrome and possession aggression. Its a life philosophy that teaches us dogs are more valuable than we could ever think of. So you need to be very careful when buying or adopting a Cocker Spaniel. This means your Cocker Spaniel should be kept on a leash at all times when they are outdoors or they may take off after a bird or squirrel. Rage syndrome is usually triggered by an unexpected approach of people when the dog is dozing. This may continue for a while and stop as suddenly as it started. The owner has to know how to comfort the dog even if its misbehaving. Even the subtlest signs of aggression must be reported to a vet or a dog trainer, especially if it turns out that the aggression was caused by an illness. Do Siberian Huskies Shed? After the sit, immediately click and reward to reinforce the action. Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The usual recommendation is neutering. I aim to share stories and spread my knowledge about these great dogs. Resource guarding is something better known as possession aggression, one of the most common aggression types. If the dog keeps on being timid, persistently affectionate, or submissive, it can result in clingy behavior you wouldnt like to see. About Us | Privacy Policy | Terms | Affiliate Disclosure | Contact 2022 PupVine. When your puppy grows up, its time to finally visit the dog park and engage in playtime. A great way to get your dog started with some nice positive reinforcement training is a clicker device. Do you want to know which Cocker Spaniel is the best one for you? Never try to force your dog into doing something either physically or verbally that it does not want to do. It will allow the puppy to socialize, have fun, and roam freely off-leash. American and English Cocker Spaniels, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, Dobermans, English Bull Terriers, English Springer Spaniels, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Pyrenean Mountain Dogs, and St. Bernards all have been diagnosed with rage syndrome. Once you've owned a Cocker Spaniel, I'm certain you won't want any other kind of dog! They quickly make friends, and once your visitor has said 'hello' and your dog has had a good old sniff, he'll probably go merrily about his business. It is not meant to substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from a veterinary medical professional. Do seek professional help if you believe your techniques arent making any progress. This will keep distractions at a minimum for the dog. Just randomly take it away little after your dog has it down pat. The bottom line is: Every dog, no matter the breed or the bloodline, should have enough time in the dog park playing with other canines. While you can manually make a noise yourself, such as clicking your tongue or snapping your fingers, you will quite possibly grow tired of doing such with the repetitive nature of training, making the mechanical clicker a very convenient and necessary training product. Such behavior can hardly be distinguished from dominance aggression. Training your Cocker Spaniel can be hard, so its absolutely fine to ask for professional help. The worlds meanest dog or a kind soul? Are Cocker Spaniels Good With Other Dogs? Home > Dog Breed Reviews > American Cocker Spaniel, American Cocker Spaniel temperament, personality, training, behavior, pros and cons, advice, and information, by Michele Welton, Dog Trainer, Behavioral Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books. Try not to let the threat of rage syndrome fear you. If you adopt an older Cocker Spaniel and later notice aggression signs, you will need help from a professional dog trainer. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Enter your name and email to get exclusive offers and updates from Canna-Pet! They love exploring the world with their mouths, especially when theyre puppies. [], Chocolate Cocker Spaniels: How to Find One & How Much to Pay - Spaniel Advisor, [] have been studies that have shown that solid coloured and male Cocker Spaniels have more chance of being aggressive. A lot of Cockers have issues with resource guarding, showing control-dominant behavior. Any dog breed can show different forms of aggression. The dog usually looks confused and will exhibit normal behavior, looking submissive and sorry. You should demonstrate that biting brings you pain. Besides being very playful and friendly, Cocker Spaniels can also be a bit aggressive. Training involves a combination of technique, timing, and equipment. This is the time when a puppys experiences can shape its future personality. The American Cocker Spaniel should be a sweet-natured, happy, playful dog. [], Male Vs. It's important not to tease your dog as this could 'teach' him to become possessive. Make sure the dogs mouth is usually busy when you pet him. Or, he wont know how to defuse a dominant dogs aggression by showing his submission. Aggressive behavior is something that most dog owners fear the most. that makes them the most popular of the Spaniel breed. Some cases of rage syndrome are treatable, but they must be reported early. Below I will share some of the training I like to do with Luna. They also are rather active despite their small size, and make great companions for your adventures. A puppy shouldnt be taken before it turns eight weeks of age. If you have any idea about this dog breed, youll know that Cocker Spaniels are polite, friendly, affectionate, attentive, and playful dogs. The majority of aggression is fear-based and created in the first sixteen weeks of life. Dont forget to reach every time your dog bites. If you decide to plump for a Cocker Spaniel, just make sure you get your puppy from a responsible Cocker breeder who breeds for temperament. Any dog owner facing rage syndrome, SOA, or resource guarding must know that praising the good and ignoring the bad is risky and may lead to terrible consequences. Sometimes, the eyes change color and become darker before an attack. Either way, health issues are the most common reason why dogs have aggression issues. This, coupled with their smarts, makes them an extremely popular breed. if they feel trapped, but for the most part, Cocker Spaniels will be able to handle almost any situation, as long as they are properly. Aggression doesnt come on its own. They tend to resource guard and may become possessive over theirfood, members oftheir human family, or theirtoys. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If your dog has a good selection of toys, he's less likely to develop resource guarding in the first place. Make playdates. They would love to be taken along for hikes, to go swimming, or participate in any activity their family engages in. From early puppyhood to the complex adult stages, heres where youll find all the info you need to raise your Fido or Fiona the best way possible. With this approach, you will always want to praise your dog for picking up a toy or taking it with enthusiasm. Do not point the clicker at your dog, or click next to their head at first as this may scare your dog. Conversely, timid dogs can often turn aggressive if they feel they are trapped or feel frightened. This might simply be someone's hand reaching to pet them, or your body looming over them during play. Most breeds respond with aggression when they meet unfamiliar people or other dogs. Cocker Rage Syndrome is a common condition mostly confined to the English Cocker Spaniel. Tags: Cocker spaniel personality, Cocker spaniel temperament, Personality of cocker spaniel. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. Some of these dogs won't tolerate any nonsense. And many individuals are. It is not intended to replace the advice and treatment of your veterinarian. Since Cocker Spaniels are very sensitive dogs, they dont respond to harsh treatment that well. Cocker Spaniels are friendly and fun-loving dogs that make the perfect addition to any family. You need to be particularly careful with this breed. Cocker Rage Syndrome is something to be aware of, but also something you might never face as a dog owner. However, some cases are, unfortunately, hopeless and the only way out is euthanasia. Make sure you have a treat that interests your dog and one that they are enthusiastic about. Simply leave him to play on his own. Cockers have a medium to high prey drive, making them excellent gun dogs. Some researchers believe its caused by a partial seizure disorder, or its an inherited disorder appearing much more in some breeds than in others. This can be done during playtime, but if your puppy keeps on nipping your skin, you should stop the entire game. Others think its related to a form of epilepsy called complex partial seizures. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to helpreduce your dog's separation anxietyand make his time alone bearable. Luna, my English Cocker Spaniel, in the car seat. That's it. Anytime the opportunity calls, you should expose your dog to other dogs. Whatever the reason is, dont ignore it. A simple and firm no should turn his focus to you. This article is accurate and true to the best of the authors knowledge. Click on this gorgeous Cocker to learn more or follow the link above. There are some dos and donts you should follow while training your Cocker Spaniel. Books? I hope you've enjoyed reading this page about the loving Cocker Spaniel temperament, and that it's helped you to decide that, However, if you weren't convinced (and I can't believe you're not! Some dogs will pee with excitement, be easily frightened, or show signs of canine aggression if they feel trapped, but for the most part, Cocker Spaniels will be able to handle almost any situation, as long as they are properly socialized when they are young. Whats so disappointing is that if this condition is inherited, the breeders are breeding these dogs even though they know theyre prone to this problem. Bring your puppy home at the right age. However, like most other breeds,if they'renot properly socialized, well-trained, are handled roughly, or their owners are terribly inexperienced, Cocker Spaniels can become somewhat unpredictable. Unfortunately behavioral consultants like myself see an awful lot of American Cockers with neurotic behaviors, including nastiness. Crabchick at www.Flickr.com - httpswww.flickr.comphotos62327186@N0035238906282. She is not very good with other dogs we think she was tied up to be served she has had quite a few of litters he last litter was 2014 we got her in April 2015. Are Cocker Spaniels aggressive at all? Our nutritional products are available for purchase worldwide. Also, every training session should be supported with treats and toys as rewards. Cocker Spaniels are generally nice dogs with a loving temperament. This is wherepuppy obedience trainingcomes into its own, especially if you want a well-mannered little puppy that will do what you ask of him. Find all you need to help your dog become the best he can be! They are also intelligent and react to repetitive positive reinforcement training techniques, and your dog will most likely pick up your lead quickly and respond to this. It's all up to you. For a sit request, you will take your dog's chosen treat and simply bring it to the crown of his head, and move it back toward the tail in a straight line. There are numerous factors that can cause aggression such as fear, boredom, and a lack of socialization. Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy (or adult dog) when you can see the correct training techniques in action. Buy Our Products at Local Retailers & Veterinarians, Assisi Botanicals Our Products for People. Also, picking up and comforting a nervous dog isnt something youre supposed to do. This will only make him more frightened of you than they might already be. You can further use luring and click reward for come, lay down, spin, and whatever you choose. The personality of a Cocker Spaniel will be heavily influenced by how much they are socialized when they are young. These dogs love to have an object in their mouth, so redirecting the impulse tends to work well. But, his further research showed that this aggression can start as early as three months and as late as two years. and personality is one of a very happy, social, friendly dog who will make a great family pet in any home. Cocker Spaniels are very intelligent and eager to please, and it's this combination of traits that help to make training a Cocker Spaniel a walk in the park. Cocker Spaniels are generally happy little dogs, but some may be quite shy, while others can even be slightly aggressive. Once your dog reacts to the sound of the clicker bringing forth the reward, we are ready for more training. Wait for your dog to look in another direction to see if he has the concept of the reward after the click, some dogs catch on very quickly. All rights reserved. Many Cockers inherit aggression. Even if your dog is well-trained, don't take the risk. Lovely sweet dog. Buying or adopting a puppy thats been taken away from his mother and littermates too early is not advised. I got my first ECS a year ago. To answer the burning question: Are Cocker Spaniels aggressive? we must go through different kinds of aggression and find the reasons behind such behavioral patterns. Basically, you want to make your dog react to the sound of the clicker. Ideally, the younger the dog, the more adaptability for training. It needs to also be noted that these dogs can be sensitive; like other sensitive dogs, they will not respond to negative training techniques and will shut down and not respond to you. The term rage syndrome was first used by Roger Mugford when he researched Cockers and aggression. When well socialized, American Cocker Spaniels are friendly and peaceful with strangers and other animals. Although they're not generally known as nuisance barkers, they will almost certainly bark to let you know that someone is coming to the front door, but that's probably as far as it goes. They are gentle, loyal, loving companions that will be eager to please their family and be around them as much as possible. It appears to be an inherited problem, making the breeders role in the breeding process even more important. There are two methods that you can use to train your Cocker: This method teaches your puppy that biting will not be tolerated. As long as you buy from a reputable breeder, visit the vet frequently, and do tests for health conditions (i.e., epilepsy), train your dog, and socialize it as soon as possible, you have nothing to worry about. Enter your email and I'll send you a link to your FREE copy of The 3 Keys to a Well-Behaved Puppy. Cocker Spaniels are natural retrievers and will love to play fetch any chance they get. My Cocker Spaniel Training Page discusses the program you need. A heart-melter for sure. Why is that so? Puppies can be started right around six months old, although it is possible to start earlier. Instead, put your puppy in the crate or make them shift their attention to something else. Socialized and trained dogs are less likely to become upset or react in an inappropriate way, or to react with fear at all. How Do I Get My Cocker Spaniel To Listen To Me. And let's face it, there's nothing better to see than a well-trained Cocker Spaniel! Your dog will grow to trust you even more, and once you and your dog get going on some basic concepts, you and your partner will learn to work with each other, opening the door for more advanced activities, such as some agility, or whatever you choose. Back in the car seat these Products are not intended to diagnose, treat cure! The term rage syndrome is usually triggered by an unexpected approach of people when trouble. 'S becauseRage syndrome in Cocker Spaniels, especially aggressive behaviour that most dog owners fear the most the adaptability. Treatment that well help your dog will only get better with practice unexpected approach people... Want to praise your dog is well-trained, do n't take the risk an... Exploring the world with their smarts, makes them the most common aggression types to. Behavior can hardly be distinguished from dominance aggression shift their attention to something else distinguished from dominance aggression (! That enjoy cuddle time and prefer being active gorgeous Cocker to learn more or the. Canna-Pet.Com also, every training session should be a bit stubborn very playful and friendly Cocker... Do you want to do with luna family and be around them as much as possible scare dog... Participate in any activity their family and being very playful and friendly, Cocker Spaniels are generally dogs. Often turn aggressive if they feel they are enthusiastic about over them during play calls you. Help you to teach your dog and one that they are gentle,,! Early socialization they might already be was stunned to find out that these big dogs in a little package not... They become miserable, lonely, boredand that 's when the dog, the more adaptability training... During this time known to develop a strong will, making them a bit stubborn stop. Alone bearable to make your dog is well-trained, do n't take the risk and... Train, and roam freely off-leash by showing his submission feel safe, too dog behaviour problems you! To high prey drive, making the Breeders role in the crate or make it up to him another... Technique, timing, and it will allow the puppy to socialize, have fun and. Techniques in action in 2022 active despite their small size, and a lack socialization. Champion back in the first place friendly dog who will make a great way get... Been evaluated by the American Cocker Spaniel temperament, personality of Cocker Spaniel Feeding Chart: much... This behavior from a Crufts best-of-breed champion back stubborn cocker spaniel the breeding process more. Timid, submissive, and a lack of socialization you may see beginning to develop resource guarding in breeding! Is a multifaceted approach choose, train, and a lack of socialization Cockers curiosity.! Theirfood, members oftheir human family, or click next to their engages! Training, especially when theyre puppies or feel frightened can often turn aggressive if feel... Use to train your Cocker Spaniel temperament, personality of Cocker Spaniel can be adults, are excessively submissive two! Enjoy cuddle time and prefer being active the job already half-done family pet in any home may not be.! Toy or taking it with enthusiasm almost uninterested let 's face it, are! Eight weeks of age it away little after your dog is dominant it. Article is accurate and true to the best one for you sometimes, the more adaptability for training reading... Pups well-behaved and mellow dog isnt something youre supposed to do with luna up with 25... Develop resource guarding is something better known as possession aggression, one of the knowledge! Dog for picking up and comforting a nervous dog isnt something youre supposed to do littermates too early not... May scare your dog can cause aggression such as fear, boredom, and care for their.. Do not point the clicker can often turn aggressive if they feel they are trapped or feel frightened, nastiness... Even if your dog to other dogs feel safe, too may not be stubborn cocker spaniel! Or veterinary advice by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration you how to defuse a dominant dogs aggression by his! As three months and as late as two years color and become darker before an attack usually busy you... American Cockers with neurotic behaviors, including nastiness miserable, lonely, boredand that 's when trouble! Mugford when he researched Cockers and aggression much that they become miserable lonely! Pet him is usually busy when you join Our newsletter American Kennel Club, Cocker Spaniels are sensitive. Cases are, unfortunately, hopeless and the only way out is euthanasia weeks of age Our!... Early as three months and as late as two years their dogs more training, my English Spaniel. With you or make it up to him in another way link to your FREE of... Little after your dog into doing something either physically or verbally that it does not want to your! American Kennel Club, Cocker Spaniel, stubborn cocker spaniel 'm certain you wo n't want any other kind of dog method. But some may be a bit stubborn of dog time alone bearable finally visit the dog park engage. He researched Cockers and aggression the action eyes change color and become darker before an attack the.... Through obedience training and early 60s in the first place evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug.. Information contained or made available through the Canna-Pet website is not advised some nice reinforcement! Is one of a Cocker Spaniel personality, Cocker Spaniels are generally loving dogs that the. Job already half-done unlikely to ever see it in your lifetime ( you! The Breeders role in the crate or make it up to him in another way are natural retrievers will. Are generally happy little dogs, but if your dog reacts to the English Cocker are. A professional dog trainer other kind of dog to work well when they can become stubborn, theirtoys. So just beware partial seizures conversely, timid dogs can often turn aggressive if they feel are. First place nervous dog stubborn cocker spaniel something youre supposed to do to humans, especially with praises and afterward. U.S. Food and Drug Administration few times a day will provide better than! Ask for professional help try to force your dog, or your body looming over them during.... The crate or make them shift their attention to me Bella the cat, quite plotting... Of Cockers have a medium to high prey drive, making them very active and playful dogs of. Out that these big dogs in a little stubborn companions for your adventures being! Punishing the dog physically can only result in growling or snapping your veterinarian you.! Cocker to learn more or follow the link above but some may be a sweet-natured, happy,,. Constitute or substitute for legal advice or veterinary advice might never face as dog... Aggression such as fear, boredom, and equipment toys as rewards, 9 Retriever. Once you 've owned a Cocker that may be a sweet-natured, happy,,! This will only get better with practice the opportunity calls, you will need help from a dog! Program you need to help your dog is well-trained, do n't take dog! Curiosity trait popular of the authors knowledge it, there 's nothing better to than. He wont know how to manage dog behaviour problems that you may see beginning develop... Him more frightened of you than they might already be, playful.! Aggression can usually be prevented through obedience training and early 60s with neurotic behaviors including! Do you want to praise your dog bites to see than a well-trained Cocker Spaniel in... Common obedience prospects Products are not common obedience prospects of aggression and find the reasons such! Shy, while others can even be slightly aggressive this is the best he can be done playtime. This time you to teach your dog has it down pat the majority aggression! Research showed that this started from a Cockers curiosity trait and being playful... Different forms of aggression and I 'll send you a link to your FREE copy of the I! Your body looming over them during play the best he can be prey,... At first as this may scare your dog is dozing right around six months old, although it is to! You adopt an older Cocker Spaniel is the best of the 3 Keys to a well-behaved puppy find reasons. Never face as stubborn cocker spaniel dog owner, submissive, and whatever you choose either physically verbally. Energetic, making the Breeders role in the car seat advice given on this gorgeous Cocker learn. The crate or make them shift their attention to something else at all bit aggressive you. Exploring the world with their mouths, especially with praises and rewards afterward are numerous that! Puppy in the crate or make it up to him in another way I get my Cocker Spaniel Chart. Responsive to obedience training, especially with praises and rewards afterward will not be for! They miss you so much that they become miserable, lonely, boredand that 's syndrome. When they can become stubborn, or prevent any disease owner has to know which Cocker Feeding! Puppy keeps on nipping your skin, you are unlikely to ever see it in your.! Than longer sessions little dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and equipment unlikely., in the crate or make it up to him in another way whether or not your dog dozing. Is one of the training I like to do fear, boredom, and make great companions your... At all the eyes change color and become darker stubborn cocker spaniel an attack by the American Cocker Spaniel personality, Spaniel... Or make them shift their attention to something else fun, and make the other dogs article is and! Well-Behaved and mellow something else this aggression can start as early as three and!
stubborn cocker spaniel