Cocker Spaniels are affectionate and sociable. They are energetic and generally happy animals. However, this happiness largely depends on human company. Cocker Spaniels are not likely to remain happy if they are left alone for too long.
Some Cockers may seem a little “down” if they are left alone regularly or for an unusually long period of time; others, may exhibit full Cocker Spaniel separation anxiety symptoms.
Before describing these symptoms, it’s important to note that when a cocker spaniel, or any dog, experiences separation anxiety, they don’t intentionally “get back at you” for leaving them. They are basically in a state of fear or panic. They are not considering, they are not even aware of the “goodness” or “badness” of their behavior. They are just reacting. Punishing or scolding your Cocker Spaniel will only make things more difficult for both of you.
There are several behaviors that can indicate that your cocker spaniel is experiencing separation anxiety. It can seem endearing, and actually flattering, when your pooch follows you from room to room. Maybe he or she just loves you a lot, and I’m sure the pup does, but it could also be a sign that your Cocker is scared of you leaving and doesn’t want to let you out of his sight.
It’s also adorable and flattering when pets greet us with great enthusiasm when we return after several hours away. Some days, it can be nice to know that someone is happy to see us! However, if your Cocker Spaniel goes crazy when you return from a quick trip to the mailbox, there could be a problem.
If your cocker spaniel is normally housebroken, but regularly urinates or does other things indoors when left alone, it could be a reaction to separation, provided it is for a reasonable period of time and your pet has been released prior to release. departure. Again, this is not your pet’s way of punishing you. It is a reaction to stress.
Dogs, including cocker spaniels, that suffer from separation anxiety can sometimes cause minor to significant property damage through destructive actions such as chewing (nervously) and/or scratching at doors and windows in an attempt to break free and track you down like a furry dog. little stalker.
They will often vocalize their distress by barking, whining, and even howling while you are away. If there is enough distance between you and your neighbors, this is not a big problem for your neighbors; but if you live in a duplex or apartment, it’s not so good!
What can you do about Cocker Spaniel separation anxiety? You love your Cocker Spaniel but you feel frustrated and stress is getting to you. Don’t give up, help is on the way.
The following are suggestions that will help you with Cocker Spaniel separation anxiety. There are many more suggestions that trainers can provide, but for now this would be a good start. The important thing to understand and remember is that separation anxiety is correctable. A key point is to make sure your Cocker Spaniel gets plenty of exercise and is persistent in retraining him for normal behavior.
1) The first thing you should do is consult with your veterinarian. They may run some tests and rule out any underlying disorders or medical problems. Dogs, like people, can often be treated with the same antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications that some humans use for anxiety disorders. Before you medicate your dog, it would be good advice to consult with a trainer about your Cocker Spaniel separation anxiety issue as well.
2) Gently reassure your Cocker Spaniel before you leave and use the same words each time so your dog will eventually become familiar with the phrase and what it means.
3) Leave your scented clothes or bedding in a pile on the floor for your cocker spaniel to sleep and/or curl up in. An old blanket works well.
4) Don’t try to excite your dog when he comes back from outside. Wait a couple of minutes after you return to pay attention to your dog.
5) Consider box training. However, be sure to properly housetrain the puppy before attempting to confine your pet for extended hours. Crate training has many benefits, but keeping your pup cooped up all day isn’t one of them.
6) Leave a radio (talk station) or television on. Hearing human voices can calm your dog by allowing him to believe that people are nearby.
7) Desensitize your cocker spaniel to your absence by gradually and incrementally increasing his time away (within reason).
8) Dog sitting is a very viable and affordable alternative. A dog sitter will visit her pup at a set time during the day to provide playtime and relief. If you’re going on vacation or a business trip, sign up for a Cocker Spaniel rescue group. Members often provide dog sitting services in their own homes at very reasonable prices.
9) Do not punish your dog, it will only increase the problem and cause confusion with the puppy.
10) Be patient and continue to take corrective action. Many dogs improve dramatically in a reasonable amount of time.
A simple solution that works for many people is to crate the puppy for no more than four hours. Before you create, take your pup outside so he can revive and get some exercise. Make sure the cage has soft bedding, available water, and some engaging toys. Leave a radio on. Lure the puppy into the crate with a treat. In fact, I’ve had dogs that would walk into the crate on their own if they thought I was leaving the house. Ease out slowly and you’ll be well on your way to resolving Cocker Spaniel separation anxiety.
If none of these suggestions help your Cocker Spaniel separation anxiety problem, it’s time to revisit your vet. Anxiety medications can help with retraining.
Good luck in your training.
Charlie Draper, editor
