At Home Cocker Spaniels
Drop It!
Sit! Good dog!
Your dog needs to sit before she can do anything. She should sit before you will open the door to let her go out or come back in. She should sit before you put her food down. She should sit before you put the leash on her. She should sit before you pet her. You need to be in control of every interaction and then pour in the love.
Your dog wants to put everything in his mouth - everything that doesn't belong to him! He needs to learn to "Drop it"! Before you take something out of his mouth, say "drop it". Then say, "drop it" again as you remove the item. If he growls at you for trying to take it, pinch the bridge of his nose and say "no". You need to be able to remove anything from your dog's mouth without a conflict and your dog needs to learn to just drop it on command. Keep practicing!
It is important to establish your dominance as soon as puppy comes home. One of the best ways is with the food. Put your hand in the food while puppy eats. Take food, and anything else, out of her mouth while she eats and then give it back. Make her sit before you give her the food. Dogs are naturally resource guarders and it often starts with food and escalates to what looks like general aggression. So don't wait, claim her food and never stop reminding her that you own it.
Puppies engage in rough play. When they come home, they will continue to be rough. They will explore the world with their mouths, they will test the limits to see where they are in this new "pack", and they will just be rambunctious because they are young. While all of this is expected, it isn't acceptable. Starting on the first day, it is important to let puppy know not to mouth his new pack. A little squeeze across the bridge of the nose with a firm NO is a good start. Pin puppy on his back until he's still or looks away to let him know you are the pack leader. And, make sure you shower him with love and praise for the things he does right. Remember, it's a process that needs your patience and consistency
Own the Food!
Nip It!
Basic training at a glance!
Your overall satisfaction with your dog depends on how well you train her. That sweet puppy today will be a MONSTER by the time he's 1 if you don't lay down the ground rules and stick to them! A dog who is sure of her place in the pack and who is well trained will be happier and more at ease, not trying to buck for a higher status. It does take some time, patience and consistency but the payoff is immeasurable!
Treat Me!
No matter how well you and your dog learn to communicate, he will never speak your language. The best way to reinforce positive behavior is with lots of love, praise and delicious treats! Your puppy IS learning, she's getting lots of things right. Be sure that you are spending plenty of time with your dog and reward all goodness with good treats.
Look Who's Watching!
Your puppy will begin to recognize your routine. So, an important part of training is sticking to a routine. Your puppy is interested in everything you do and is watching to anticipate what comes next. This is very helpful in training so use it to your advantage and come up with a schedule that works for your household and your furry friend!
Table Food
One of the ways dogs understand their position in the pack is by where they eat and when. You are part of their pack. If your dog gets to eat off of your plate while you are eating, you are giving him the impression that you share an equal status. You don't. You are the top dog! When you give your dog table tid-bits, do it when everyone is finished eating, do it from your hand or in his bowl and away from where you just ate. He won't love you any less but you'll have subtly affirmed pack positions. Remember to make him sit first! It's so easy, even a 5 year old can do it!
Structure My Day
One of THE MOST important things you can do to promote your dog's good and stable mental well being is to spend time with him. Your dogs NEEDS your attention. He needs you to come up with organized play, throwing the ball, jumping hoops and going for leash walks. And, he needs you to rub him and talk to him. Make time every day for your furry best friend.