English Cocker Spaniel Forum:
Please help

Our 16week old Amer Cocker has started to show some agressive behavoir. She rolls on her back as if to want her tummy rubbed when shes resting and if you try to pet her she growls. Also my she has started to growl if my sister in law tries to pet her. This is only for the past 2 weeks. Prior to that she really enjoyed being with her. The other day she jumped at her and went for her leg.She is otherwise very sweet. I have an 8 and 10 year old and Im concerned about this especially for their sake. Would a trainer help, should I get rid of her(I really hate to). She is very friendly to strangers and always greets them happily. Id really hate to get rid of her and my kids would be broken hearted.

You need to sign her up for obedience class for starters. Some pet bred cockers DO have rage syndrome (I have found this true in several of the redder buffs). Also, go to the library and check out books by Carol Lea Benjamin. She explains dog pyschology so you can understand what is going on in your dogs mind.

A 16 week pup should not be growling or going after people (especially a cocker spaniel!). If you got your pup from a show breeder you need to contact them for help (good breeders are always available for advice and assistance). I said from a show breeder because the backyard breeders and puppy mills only breed for money and not with regard to health issues or temperament and if you contact them they will more than likely give you the brush off.