There are many causes of Cocker Spaniel aggression. It might be due to a dominance related issue between you and the Cocker Spaniel, or it might be a trigger that was never properly dealt with from puppyhood – such as an attack by a different Cocker Spaniel. Whatever is causing your Cocker Spaniel’s aggression, however, you need to address it as soon as possible. The results of prolonged aggression can be not only scary, but dangerous if not quickly taken to task.
The Source of aggressive Behavior in Cocker Spaniels
Cocker Spaniel aggression can start as young as 6 weeks of age, a crucial age when a puppy should be socialized with other dogs and given the necessary training that keeps them from biting other people. This period of socialization lasts until the Cocker Spaniel turns 14 weeks of age and can extend even further beyond that.
This means several things. First, never take a puppy away from its litter before 8 weeks of age. Never use harsh discipline with the puppy between 8 and 10 weeks and make sure your Cocker Spaniel is very gently treated during that time. Hitting, yelling or other harsh punishments at a young age can breed aggressive behavior in Cocker Spaniels over time.
A Cocker Spaniel needs to have been properly socialized with people and other Cocker Spaniels by the time he reached 14 weeks to avoid any future aggression issues.
Actual aggression can be triggered by any number of factors. Heredity and genetics are certainly factors – some breeds can be more aggressive than others – but it is by no means a hard fast rule. Additionally, Cocker Spaniels that have not been neutered or spayed are more prone to aggressive tendencies.
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By far, however, the most important factor in creating Cocker Spaniel aggression is their environment. A Cocker Spaniel that has poor living conditions, harsh masters, no socialization, or that has been frightened or attacked by another dog is far more likely to be aggressive as it ages.
Aggression can grow from the need to establish a pack pecking order. Biting, posturing, and other aggressive tendencies are often the result of a Cocker Spaniel testing for dominance. You’ll need to establish dominance at a young age and maintain that position throughout the Cocker Spaniel’s adolescence to ensure it doesn’t get a chance to take control of the household.
Stopping and Controlling Cocker Spaniel Aggression
If your Cocker Spaniel exhibits aggressive behavior after 14 months of age, when it has reached sexual maturity, especially after it has been altered, you should address the problem immediately. First, make sure you have established yourself as the pack leader. Don’t reward your Cocker Spaniel for aggressive behavior, even if it is scared (especially in this case).
Train your Cocker Spaniel to respond to your commands, control feeding and walking times, and make sure your Cocker Spaniel has a strong leader in the house. If you defer to the Cocker Spaniel or allow it to take liberties in your home, it will exhibit stronger aggression toward others.
If your Cocker Spaniel is defensive-aggressive, they may strike out at a person in fear. These Cocker Spaniels may not have been properly socialized. Keep them away from small children (which they may see as direct threats) and attend a training session or behaviorist who can slowly acclimate the Cocker Spaniel to a social atmosphere.
Aggressive behavior in Cocker Spaniels is a huge problem that many owners have, but it can be controlled, even as your Cocker Spaniel gets older. If your Cocker Spaniel aggression ever advances to violence, consider hiring a professional to intervene before someone gets hurt and your Cocker Spaniel is held responsible.