If your dog’s personality seems a bit different, it’s something to pay attention to. A dog’s temperament doesn’t change on a whim; there’s always a reason for it. Some of them are more serious than others, so always check with your vet or a professional behaviorist with any questions or concerns.
Cocker Spaniels Changing Temperament Reasons
Just like humans, your charming Cocker Spaniels can experience shifts in behavior. Here are various factors that may contribute to shifts in the temperament of Cocker Spaniels, providing valuable insights for pet owners seeking a deeper understanding of their furry friends.
Age
Like people, dogs tend to mellow out with time. Your puppy will outgrow their tendency to bounce off the walls and be happier cuddled up next to you. And as they get older, they tend to slow down further. If you’ve noticed your cocker spaniel starting to slow down, it might just be from the passage of time.
Take things at their pace with them, and who knows? You might start to see things from a new perspective. Read our comprehensive guide to know more about Cocker Spaniel’s life stages.
Sterilization
When a dog is spayed or neutered, there’s a change in hormones. This can have an effect on their personality. An excitable, jumpy dog may settle down, or an insecure dog may strengthen. Dogs can go from submissive to dominant, or vice versa. It can happen in either male or female dogs, so it’s important to know. It’s perfectly normal for this to happen, but if the changes worry you, talk to your vet.
Changes in Household
If you’ve gotten a new pet, had a baby, or recently moved house, your cocker spaniel has probably picked up on the change. And because they know something’s different, their behavior is different as well. It’ll probably be temporary, until things settle down, but there are some things to look out for.
Make sure your spaniel isn’t acting aggressively to any new two- or four-legged family members, most of all. If there are any aggressive or destructive behaviors, it is wisest to speak to a vet or canine behaviorist to see what can be done.
Improper Training or Socialization
Sometimes, training or socialization doesn’t go as smoothly as we think it does. This can lead to an insecure, fearful, or disobedient dog. Fortunately, despite the old adage, you can teach an old dog new tricks. Training might take a bit longer with an older dog, but it’ll still help. And dogs of any age can be socialized if it’s done right.
A puppy playgroup or socialization class will help to socialize your Cocker Spaniel puppy, but remember to stay safe while doing so. Have it outdoors, or wear masks, so everybody can stay safe and healthy while their pups learn to get along.
Fears and Phobias
Does your cocker spaniel turn into a shivering mess around the Fourth of July? Or wet their crate on the way to the vet? These changes are a result of fear. Prolonged exposure to something that causes fear may lead to a phobia of that thing, if it’s done improperly.
Exposure therapy is best done gradually, and only as necessary. Sometimes it helps to have a professional trainer or behaviorist to back you up with it. In extreme circumstances, like if your cocker spaniel has fear-based aggression at the vet, special anti-anxiety medications may be given. Talk to your vet about this option.
Grief
If a family member passes, your cocker spaniel can tell too. They may seem sad or withdrawn. This is one of the hardest things to deal with as a dog owner. There’s no right or wrong way to get your dog back to their normal, cheerful self, but distraction and a bit of extra love won’t hurt.
Keep them close, make sure everything is as normal as it can be for them, and if they don’t seem to pep back up, give your vet a call.
Illness and Pain
If you’re feeling unwell, you can get a bit grumpy and lethargic. The same can be said for your cocker spaniel. They may yelp, growl, or even nip when a painful spot is touched, and be less willing to walk if a paw is injured. If their stomach hurts, they may not want to eat. These changes are all pretty serious, and need to be checked out by a vet. They could be signs of severe injury or illness. Remember, your dog can’t tell you in words where they hurt, so pay close attention to how they can tell you.
Conclusion
There are many different reasons your cocker spaniel’s temperament could change. It could be a lack of effective socialization, or a fear of something in the environment. If your family or living situation has changed, they could pick up on that. This is even true if you’ve lost a family member. It could be a result of a recent neutering, or a sign of illness. Or they could just be getting older. If the change is sudden, extreme, or comes with aggression, seek professional help. Your dog is worth it.
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