So, have you finally decided to get a cocker spaniel pup home? Smart, loving and eager to please, these tiny furballs are just the perfect addition to your family. However, a lot hinges on the kind of training they receive in the early stages of their lives. Whether you are looking up a cocker spaniel for sale in Birmingham as a first-time paw-rent or have already adopted one, here is a list of tips that will help you raise a dream pup.
Start Training Early
The sooner you start training your pup, the easier it will be for you. When they are smaller, they are especially quick to understand basic commands like “sit”, “stay”, or “come.” Couple it up with plenty of socialisation, and your puppy will start feeling confident in the world around them in no time.
Keep The Commands Similar
Having a routine where all the members of the family use the same words and gestures for the dogs can be incredibly helpful. Mixed signals can confuse them and hinder their progress.
Reward Good Behaviour
Cocker Spaniels are eager to please their owners and hence, respond well to positive reinforcement. When they get something right, reward them with treats, belly rubs and compliments. Avoid scolding them, as it will make them anxious and less likely to listen.
Take Them Out
An underrated step in making your pup well-adjusted is taking them out into the world. As they experience new sights, sounds and smells early on, they gain a surer footing, making them more social. Whether you take them to parks or doggy dates, introducing them to new things can help them socialise and adapt well to the world around them.
Teach Recall Early
Cocker Spaniels are incredibly curious and can often start exploring their surroundings, guided by their sense of smell. To keep them safe, teach them how to come when called. You can start in a quiet and safe area and then move to places with more distractions to ensure that they have mastered the skill.
Challenge Their Brain
Besides being adorable, cocker spaniels are incredibly smart. While this makes training them easy, it also makes it important that they get plenty of mental stimulation. Keep them busy with puzzle toys, scent games or new tricks. This way, they grow up to be well-rounded dogs that are a joy to be with.
Leash Train Your Pup
Cocker spaniels are incredibly energetic and can get distracted at the sight of squirrels, birds or cars. To keep them safe when out, use a leash. It keeps them calm and focused, guiding them to safety. Additionally, plenty of treats for walking well by your side will reinforce good behaviour, allowing them to be leash-free soon.
Bottom Line
Cocker Spaniels are an incredible breed, bringing endless love, joy and excitement to any household lucky enough to have them. However, it is important to train them well to ensure they live a happy and fulfilling life. Now that you know exactly how to raise them, wait no more! Get a cocker spaniel for sale in Manchester from Douglas Hall Kennels today!
