You’ve probably seen the world famous TV dog Grommit, of Wallace and Grommit fame, who just loves to eat Wensleydale Cheese.
Grommit always seems to locate Wallace’s secret stash even though Wallace constantly tells him that ‘there is no cheese in the house’.
But, in real life is Wensleydale okay for dogs and can dogs eat it?
Dogs can eat Wensleydale cheese, but it is best to limit their consumption of the food to avoid any problems. The high fat content in certain types of cheese can lead to vomiting or diarrhea, so take care when giving your dog a new food. Consult with your veterinarian about how much and how often you should feed your dog cheese.
Can Dogs Eat Wensleydale Cheese?
This podcast explores whether Wensleydale cheese is safe for dogs. Learn about the nutritional value, when it’s safe, and what cheese varieties to avoid. Discover alternative healthy dog treats as well.
Is Wensleydale okay for dogs to eat?
Well, it’s not always safe for dogs to eat cheese (more detail on this below) but Wensleydale cheese is one of the cheeses that should be okay.
Too much cheese could cause upset tummies, diarrhea, wind or even hiccups.
Is Wensleydale cheese good for dogs?
Cheese is fine in tiny quantities for dogs.
Cheese does contain protein, calcium, vitamin A, essential fatty acids, and B-complex vitamins, but they are all things your dog would get from his or her normal balanced diet anyhow, so there’s no need to add cheese to the mix.
Cheese can be given as a treat in very little amounts, but it’s not the best choice for dogs.
Cheese can irritate dogs’ stomachs in certain cases, and some dogs are even lactose intolerant, so if this is the case for your dog, go without.
You should not give cheese to overweight dogs or those with kidney issues since cheese has a lot of fat, calories, and salt.
If you are a new puppy owner then you’ll know that you cannot take them out in public before they are fully vaccinated as they could become unwell.
You’ll also know that puppies are lively youngsters who seem to possess endless amounts of energy.
So, how do you tire out a puppy before he is fully vaccinated and allowed to go out?
Puppies like to play and you should provide your pup with toys and other interesting, safe items that they can carry around and investigate. Keep your puppy busy and spend time playing with him, allow him to explore the house. If you have a safe and enclosed outdoor area then begin his house training and allow him to sniff around, supervised.
How do you tire out an unvaccinated puppy?
Puppies are like children, they love to explore, play, eat and sleep.
It’s important that you provide your puppy with as much opportunity as possible to play and explore his surroundings and to engage and get to know his family.
You should play with your puppy and get him some safe puppy toys that he can carry around. Old newspapers are great fun for young puppies, who will tear them up and enjoy making a great big mess.
Cardboard boxes, blankets and old shoes and socks make great toys and things for a puppy to explore.
Things that you can do to tire out your puppy indoors
Although your puppy will be far too young for training there are some things that you can do that will help to introduce some ‘good habits’ which will support his training when he is older.
When you feed him always tell him to ‘sit or hup’ before you give him his food.
Most puppies like to chase things and this can be a great form of indoor exercise.
Use a soft tennis ball and roll it in front of him so that he can pounce on it and chase it around. Let him carry it and play with it.
Call your puppy’s name when he is playing and encourage him to come to you.
When he does tickle him and play with him and tell him that he is a ‘good boy’.
Where can I take an unvaccinated puppy to tire them out?
An unvaccinated puppy should not be taken out in public, so you’ll need to spend time playing with him indoors.
Some people say that you can take your puppy to public places, puppy classes and other outdoor areas but they are wrong with their ‘advice’.
Your puppy is at risk of picking up a wide range of viruses while he is unvaccinated, some of which can be very serious and potentially fatal.
You should keep your puppy at home until he is vaccinated and until your vet tells you that it is safe for him to venture outdoors in public.
Always take the advice of a qualified vet as many sources of online information are inaccurate and could lead to health problems for your young dog.
Final Words
Keep your puppy busy, get him some toys to play with and let him explore the house.
Play with your puppy and introduce some ‘good habits’ that will help him with his adult training.
Ignore the online ‘advice’ that says parks and other places are suitable, and don’t be tempted to take him to any public areas until he is fully vaccinated and only when your vet has said that it is safe to do so.
One of the most difficult things for many novice spaniel trainers is that of allowing your spaniel to hunt his ground properly.
Often you’ll see dogs being handled excessively, mainly due to the nerves of the handler and this can result in lost marks in formal spaniel competitions.
It can also lead to lost and unfound game when out and about working on the shoot.
A working Cocker spaniel should be able to hit cover and throw it over his back, getting into and beneath the cover, as this is where game such as pheasants and rabbits, will be taking cover. Your dog needs to become a cover attacker, where nothing is too tough for him.
Get your spaniel into the cover
It’s really important that you encourage your spaniel to get into the cover and to enjoy doing so.
This is his job and it is where he is going to find the most scent and the most game – which is what we want and need him to do.
I’ve seen many spaniels jumping around like deer when they meet cover ( which is why in some circles this is known as ‘stagging’ ) and even worse, I’ve seen these dogs in the awards at field trials.
If you allow your spaniel to ‘hunt‘ in this manner then you are going to miss game – which in a competition is a disqualification ( if you are found out ) and, on a shooting day results in a lower bag.
Be wise about your choice of cover when training
Eventually you will want your spaniel to hit all manner of cover without so much as a second thought but you need to be measured when training a young spaniel in terms of the type of cover that you’ll use.
I’ve always found that dead bracken is an ideal option for dogs of all ages as it has a tendency to fold rather than sink solidly to the ground.
Most patches of bracken are light enough for a spaniel to get into easily.
How to get your spaniel into the cover
In most cases, with a working bred dog, you’re not going to have a great deal of difficulty with this aspect of training.
Most working Cocker spaniels will happily explore cover such as bracken and when they discover the myriads of scent that lie underneath they soon enjoy the activity.
If your dog does show some reluctance then working on a reward type basis will often deal with this.
Try rolling a tennis ball, in full view of your spaniel, into the cover and then send him in to fetch it.
Once he becomes confident then roll the ball in in a manner that means he has to hunt for it while in the cover, he’ll spend more time inside, will cover more ground as he works out the retrieve and will be rewarded for his efforts when he finds the ball.
If your spaniel doesn’t care much for a ball then try a canvas or fur dummy.
The idea is to help your spaniel associate the cover with a reward and with doing something that is fun – hunting for a ball of dummy and then finding it forms the basis of the fun and makes his effort worthwhile.
Keep it varied too
As your Cocker learns to enjoy getting into cover when he is hunting try to vary the terrain and cover that your encounter.
In most areas this should not be too difficult to do as cover does tend to vary as you move around.
You should give your spaniel as much experience of different types of cover as is practically possible and should introduce him to things such as:
Bracken – this is great fun and allows the dog to explore and get underneath easily.
Rushes – often found on areas of moorland, rushes are great at holding scent and, as they often grow in clumps, they are excellent for helping your spaniel learn how to cover ground – by moving from clump to clump and exploring you teach your spaniel to look at every game holding opportunity.
Woodland – woods and forests present lots of cover, from fallen trees and branches, patches of long grass and bracken and a wide range of other areas that are ideal for a spaniel to get into and underneath.
Hedges and hedgerows – exploring these along the sides of fields can be great fun for a dog – keep an eye on him though as spaniels have a tendency to run on ahead as they explore these types of cover.
If he starts to pull ahead, whistle him back, sit him down, and, when he has calmed down, send him off again. Always try to keep him close to you.
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Keep your spaniel close in cover
But don’t over handle him. You should allow your dog to work the cover but try not to let him pull or get too far from you.
Don’t worry about pattern or quartering – you want your dog to get in and cover the ground.
If he misses a patch then whistle him in and direct him to explore the cover – always aim to cover all of the ground ahead of him – taking into account the wind direction and scenting conditions.
If you have to then get into the cover with him .It’s one of the joys of spaniel training and handling and you will get wet and dirty.
Be patient, keep it interesting, don’t stress
Your spaniel has to be good at hunting in cover and, if he is a working bred Cocker, then it’s unlikely that you’ll have any problems.
Give your dog exposure to different types of cover but don’t overdo the tough stuff when he is a youngster.
Make it interesting and combine the sessions with some retrieving and some other activities that the dog enjoys.
Final Words
Hunting with your Cocker should be good fun. It’s the most enjoyable activity for me as a handler and for the dogs too.
Treat your hunting training as an adventure with your dog, explore different types of cover and introduce some retrieves as your go along.
Don’t overdo it when the weather is warm and, if you have more than one dog then make them take turns when hunting – keeping the other on the lead.
When you’re more confident you can work them both together – which is really good fun.
Most humans will be familiar with hiccups and parents of young children will be more than aware of the trouble these noisy, sometimes annoying abdominal spasms can cause. Even adults may be unable to avoid a bout of hiccups from time-to-time.
But what about pets and, in particular dogs, can dogs get hiccups?
A question many dog owners will ask is whether their dog can get hiccups. Hiccups are involuntary contractions of the diaphragm that cause rapid, repeated closure of the vocal cords. This leads to a “hiccup” sound followed by an exhalation of air. The answer to this question is yes, dogs can get hiccups just like people do.
Though they’re rarely seen or heard of, hiccups do happen to dogs – and if your pup is hiccuping, it’s normally not something that you need to worry about.
Puppies are most likely to get the hiccups and normally they are caused when they eat or drink too quickly or when they become over excited or get too cold.
As dogs grow older then, just like people, they are less likely to get hiccups.
Make sure your dog is healthy
If you have an older dog and it starts having episodes of hiccups then there might be a more serious cause that should be investigated by a vet.
It’s not only the age that counts but also the overall health of your pet. If your pup is overweight or if they have been sick recently then this can also be a reason for hiccups.
Make sure that your dog is not taking part in any strenuous exercise before, during or after meals and try to keep them warm on cold days.
If they’re less active then this makes it more likely that they’ll get the hiccups because of the digestive system starting to work harder.
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Treatment for dog hiccups
There are a few things you can do at home to deal with your dogs hiccups. If they have just eaten, try feeding them some bread or try giving them a teaspoon of honey.
These remedies won’t work in every instance but they’re worth trying if you’re dog keeps getting the hiccups after a meal.
In some cases you might want to try massaging your dog’s neck and stomach as this helps calm the diaphragm muscle – but only do this if you have been advised to by a vet.
If your pup is experiencing hiccups on a regular basis then it’s important that you take them to see a vet.
They will be able to diagnose the cause of the hiccups and advise you on the best course of action to take.
How do you know if your dog has hiccups?
A common sight is a dog hunched over with their elbows tucked into their body while they exhale air.
This is a result of a diaphragm spasm . If the spasm occurs while your dog’s stomach is full, then that air will have nowhere to go but up – and you’ll hear it.
Extreme cases may cause your pup to gag or sneeze in order to clear their respiratory system.
Performing this action is not harmful and it doesn’t affect them in any way.
There are no serious health concerns when it comes to dog hiccups and they normally last for a very short period of time.
Normally when they want food, play, or they are excited so it is not much to worry about.
Can dogs have hiccups more than once?
Yes, your dog can actually get hiccups many times within a day or even multiple times in one hour.
Some people believe that this means that you should go to the vet as soon as possible because there could be something wrong with your pet. This isn’t necessarily true though because dogs get hiccups for many reasons – most being relatively harmless.
If you are concerned about how often your dog is experiencing the hiccups, you should take them to the vet so that they can check for any potential problems.
If you are sure that they are just experiencing hiccups and they seem fine, there is no need to worry too much.
Can dogs get hiccups in their sleep?
Dogs can get hiccups when they are in their sleep and it doesn’t mean anything.
Just like humans, dogs can sometimes get the hiccups while sleeping, but this is quite rare.
This is usually only seen in puppies because their digestive system hasn’t quite developed fully yet.
They are not always a serious concern, but there are times when they can indicate an underlying health issue.
If your dog has the hiccups, the first step is making sure they are in good health and have no other symptoms that could point to something more serious.
If they do not have any other symptoms, then you should simply monitor them to make sure the hiccups go away quickly.
If your dog is having frequent hiccups or is experiencing other concerning symptoms, take them to see a vet as soon as possible.
As a Cocker spaniel owner or potential owner there is a chance that your household may already have another pet or pets and one of the most common are pet rabbits.
Its widely known that Cocker spaniels are shooting dogs and a large proportion of the breed have strong hunting and chasing instincts so, if you do have pet rabbits, then it’s understandable that you’ll wonder if the two species are compatible.
A Cocker spaniel can get along with pet rabbits and, with some training, can be taught to ignore the pet bunny. That said, dogs are driven by instinct and it would not be a good idea to leave a spaniel ( or any dog ) unsupervised when rabbits are running free. Chasing is a great game for a spaniel and, if he does manage to catch your pet rabbit then it could be game over for the bunny.
What’s the best way to keep rabbits with a Cocker spaniel?
The best and safest way is to make sure that your pet rabbits are kept safe and secure inside a strong hutch, cage or pen.
If you do want your Cocker and rabbit to spend time together then firstly you should always make sure that the interaction is supervised.
Cockers, and rabbits, can be playful and, providing you monitor their time together, you should have little if any problems.
If your Cocker does show signs of roughness or attempts to mouth, bite or becomes interested in the rabbit which is beyond that of play, then you should tell the dog ‘NO’ and, if needed, take him away from the rabbit.
Remember that your spaniel is a dog and, in the case of this breed, he has a strong prey instinct – if you put a rabbit in his path then that instinct may get the better of him.
Unless you are happy to supervise then it’s best ( and safest ) to keep spaniel and rabbit apart.
Can a Cocker spaniel kill a pet rabbit?
Yes. If a Cocker spaniel caught a pet rabbit then the dog is quite capable of killing it.
Also, pet rabbits tend to sit tight which makes them easier to catch, as opposed to wild rabbits that are more ‘street wise’ and leg it when disturbed.
What’s the best way to introduce a Cocker spaniel to pet rabbits?
Ideally you should do this when the Cocker is a puppy, when he is still developing his social skills and will be most adaptable to learning that the rabbit is another family member and not to be harmed.
Puppies like to play and introducing the dog to the rest of the household pets while he is a youngster will help him to become familiar with the rest of the household.
In the past I’ve had Springer spaniels and pet rabbits and it was funny watching the dogs running off when the rabbits came near to them.
These same spaniels, however, would not hesitate to hunt and retrieve wild rabbits on a day’s shooting.
Final Words
A Cocker spaniel living with pet rabbits is possible but only if the dog is well supervised and taught to leave the rabbit alone.
If you are not prepared for this then it’s best ( or easiest ) to keep your dogs and rabbits separate both for the safety of the rabbits and the sanity of the dog and owner.
Spaniels and rabbits can live together but, if you get the interactions wrong then it will be carnage and mayhem.
If you already have a dog or dogs then it’s possible that you may, at some point, decide to get a puppy to join the pack and, for the uninitiated, this can present some potential problems with the established ‘pack’.
With a little care and by simply thinking ‘dog’ you can minimise the risks associated with bringing a young puppy into your older dog’s home.
The simplest and most straightforward way of introducing a puppy to older dogs is to allow the dogs to meet in the home under supervision. Most adult dogs will tolerate puppies and, as long as the older dogs have a place where they can go to be away from the puppy and, that their routine is maintained, you will reduce any potential risks to almost zero.
How to introduce a puppy to an older dog
It’s important to prepare before your puppy comes home.
I use a simple dog crate for this, making it comfortable for the puppy so that she/he comes to understand that this is their home and safe place.
Note that I do not use crates or cages for ‘house training‘. This is something that I will never, ever recommend to any puppy or dog owner and I urge you to resist the people that say a cage should be used for this purpose.
You will need to make sure that you have food for your puppy and that the pup has their own water and food dishes too.
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Bringing your puppy home
How you get your puppy will be dependant upon your circumstances but I’ve always found that collecting the puppy from the breeder, in the car, is the best option.
I’ll take the older dogs with me when I do this, keeping them in the rear of the estate car. This allows them to sniff the puppy, who travels home on the rear seat with a human chaperone.
This may seem like a small point but I’ve always found that this short period of time that allows the older dogs to smell the new arrival, helps.
The puppy’s arrival at home
You will need to supervise things with the dogs when the puppy gets home, remembering that puppies are small and fragile babies that need looking after.
Within the last 24 hours, we’ve added a new puppy to our pack and the way that we introduced her to the older dogs followed the collection process above.
Once we arrived home the older dogs were allowed into the house first while the puppy was carried inside and then placed down and introduced to the others.
A few sniffs later and you’ll find that most dogs are accepting of puppies and they will all soon settle down into life together.
Maintain the routine of the older dogs
It’s important that you maintain the daily routine of the older dogs in terms of feeding, walking, training and any other activities that you undertake with them.
When a new puppy arrives you will have extra commitments dog care wise but it is important that the older dogs do not become neglected or forgotten about.
Don’t ignore the older dogs
It is very tempting to cuddle, fuss and play with a new puppy – and these are all good things to do. They help the puppy to settle into their new home and to get to know their new family.
These things also develop the puppy’s social skills and mental abilities and playtime at an early age really helps to develop the puppy’s confidence.
It’s important to maintain the levels of contact with your older dogs and to spend time with them too – if you spend too much time with the puppy and not enough with the ‘elders’ then, without realising it, you could introduce some jealousies and create some canine displeasure towards the youngster.
Allow the dogs to sort themselves out
Dogs have a hierarchy and you’ll need to be aware of the need for the pack to maintain this.
Adult dogs tend not to be aggressive towards puppies and most admonishments with be a curl of the lip ( to show teeth ) or a growl to ward off an overly adventurous puppy.
It’s rare for things to go beyond this ( although you may see an adult dog snap at a puppy if it’s brave enough to ignore the warnings ).
Unlike many modern children, puppies are normally very respectful of older dogs and, provided that you supervise properly, then you shouldn’t experience any problems with violence.
How long does it take an older dog to accept a new puppy?
This, like many other things to do with dogs, varies quite considerably depending upon the breeder and the age at which you get your puppy.
Ideally it shouldn’t be too long ( a week or two at most ) but you will want to make allowances for the older dog’s personality and temperament too. If an older dog is a little more stand-offish then this will take a little longer.
In essence, a new pup can be integrated into an existing family without much in the way of problems providing that you have a reasonable pack structure to begin with.
The real key is in your supervision and, when required, discipline.
Your older dog may not want to play with the puppy and the puppy should respect his wishes to be left alone – the older dog should have somewhere where he can go that the puppy cannot access – beds are normally a good bet as puppies can’t jump onto them.
The important thing is to not get stressed about the amount of time it is taking, if you are worked up then the dogs will know and you’ll just make matters worse.
Some dogs just take longer than others to adapt to changes and a new puppy is a big change – keep the stress levels to a minimum and maintain the routine.
Your dogs will soon settle down.
Final Words
Your new puppy doesn’t have to be the centre of attention all the time. Make sure that you spend enough time with your older dogs to maintain their routine.
They should soon accept the pup into the pack and it shouldn’t take too long before all is calm in your canine household.
If you have dogs then you’ll be familiar with the doggy smell that can invade your home along with dog hairs, mud and wide variety of other, general dog messiness.
It can be a challenge to keep your home clean and smelling fresh and, the more dogs that you have the more difficult it can become.
If you have children then the task can be even more difficult as they present their own messy problems.
Keeping your house clean with dogs requires regular vacuuming, cleaning of doggy paws before they come into the house, frequent opening of windows to allow fresh air into the home and some other, simple techniques to keep dog odours and mess to a minimum.
Keeping your house clean with dogs
As a dog owner, you know that there are always going to be some challenges keeping the house clean.
With fur, dirt and slobber coming in from outside, it’s understandable for your home to get dirty and, the more dogs that you have the higher the possible levels of muck.
Vacuum every day or at least once per week. This will help cut down on hair getting everywhere.
Wipe down furniture with a damp cloth every other day or so to remove any spills or dirt that has accumulated overnight.
Clean up accidents as soon as they happen by using an enzyme cleaner, like Pro Clean Odour Remover which breaks down the organic material in the mess.
Wash bedding weekly or more if needed. You can use regular laundry detergent to do this with everything else you wash for your pups. If it’s too much for you, consider taking your pet bedding to a laundrette but check with them first.
Give the entire house an extra thorough cleaning once to twice per month. You may want to enlist some help for this or consider hiring it done by giving your home to professionals if it feels like too much work.
Vacuum up pet hair from your furniture and floor on a regular basis, especially if you have hardwood floors.
Consider investing in a steam mop for your floors, which takes the dirt right off.
We use a Shark Steam Floor Cleaner which has removable pads that can be washed in the washing machine and reused. It’s a great piece of kit for wood and tiled floors.
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Dry your dogs off before they come into the house
After a walk you should dry your dogs off. The simplest way to do this is to use some old towels, gently rub your dog down to remove excess water and dirt paying attention to paws, tummy and legs.
If you have a utility room or separate kitchen area then you can put your dog’s bed here and let him sleep until he has fully dried off before he is allowed into the main area of the house.
Dog coats can help
A dog coat won’t stop your dog from getting wet but it will help to reduce the amount of rain and water that gets into his hair.
Using a dog coat when the weather is bad will reduce the time that you spend drying your dog off which, in turn, will help you to keep your home clean.
The key to looking after your dog is to not bathe him too frequently as soap and shampoos will dry his coat and skin and overuse can create more problems than they cure.
It’s worth remembering that most dogs love water and enjoy paddling and swimming and you can make use of this when keeping him clean.
Fresh water from rivers or the sea is a great option for getting mud and smells of your dog without using soap and, if you take your dog somewhere where he can swim then it’s also fun and great exercise for him.
Don’t let your dog in the house when he is wet
If you can try and keep your dog outside when he is wet.
If you do allow him inside then make sure that his feet and legs are dried before letting him on any furniture or carpets.
Get some rugs for the floor and throws for furniture
Rugs and throws can be washed or taken outside and beaten to remove dust and smells.
Dogs are often really messy and their beds can get full of hairs and can end up smelling.
By getting a dog bed with removable covers, that can be washed in the washing machine, you can make this easy for yourself.
It’s also worth remembering that most dogs like comfort, warmth and softness. By keeping the bed clean it will stay fluffy and give him the kind of sleep he enjoys.
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Final Words
Keeping your home clean and fresh smelling when you have dogs can be a challenge but, with some thought and some effort, it doesn’t have to become a back breaking chore.
It’s important to remember that your dog is just a dog and he doesn’t realise, or care, about dog smells, mud or dog hair so you’ll ned to take care of things for him.
Running with your dog is a great way to bond with them and get some exercise and it can be a great way for them, and you, to burn off some calories and improve fitness levels.
Cocker spaniels, like all of the spaniel breeds, enjoy some variety in their exercise routines and, if you enjoy running, your spaniel will enjoy the exercise and the time spent together. You’ll need to consider the terrain that you run on and the distance and weather conditions before you take your dog with you.
How far can you run with a Cocker spaniel?
Cocker spaniels were originally working dogs and you’ll need to remember this when planning your running routine.
A Cocker Spaniel will be perfectly happy with a two or three mile run two or three times a week with some different forms of exercise, such as walks and training, on the other days.
It’s important that you gradually introduce your spaniel to running with you, over a gradual period, so that you don’t overdo it.
If your dog is overweight, is recovering from an injury or has not undertaken any real activity for some time then you need to build him up slowly before taking him for a long, sustained run.
Type of terrain that you run on is important for your spaniel
The type of ground that you run on is an important factor to consider when taking your Cocker spaniel running.
Tarmac, pavements and other solid surfaces associated with ‘road running’ are not the best surfaces for any breed of dog to run on.
The impact levels associated with running on these types of surfaces can affect the joints of dogs ( in a similar manner that they affect humans ) – this can be compounded in dogs as, unlike humans, they do not wear impact absorbing footwear when running.
Off road running, such as fell running, running on the beach and running on other softer surfaces, that can absorb some impact, should be your choice when taking your Cocker spaniel running.
You should always consider your dog’s well being when running, particularly his paws and in addition to the above it is wise to avoid gravel type tracks that can cause cuts and abrasions and other paw injuries.
Many runners get dog boots for their pets which can reduce the risk of injuries to paws and doggy ankles when running and exercising, these are widely available and can often be found online, in different sizes, at reasonable prices.
Can you run with a Cocker spaniel?
Popular dog boots
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MOKCCI dog boots are made of high-quality waterproof material, which is durable and comfortable for your dogs.
The rubber soles will give your dog better control and protect paws from the cold weather and sharp stuff.
The ergonomic design with inner breathable mesh is very comfortable and lightweight.
Your dog can wear these long-term for hiking, hunting, running and walking.
The boots have convenient straps which make them easy to put on and take off.
They also have reflective strips for night time visibility to help to keep your dog safe if you are out after dark.
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RUFFWEAR Dog Boots for Everyday Use (Set of 2)
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They’re also great for sore or wounded paws – no licking.
The boots have a high-traction soles – can be used indoors to prevent slipping/paw dragging and damage to floors.
The boots come in sizes Small (5-9 lbs), Medium (10-19 lbs) and Large (20-49lbs).
They’re easy to put on with an adjustable hook and loop ankle closure for a secure fit.
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Can I run with my Cocker spaniel when the weather is bad?
Yes, you can run with your spaniel in most weather conditions – but if the ground is wet and slippery then you should be careful.
If it’s really cold, say under 5 degrees Celsius, then you should probably avoid brining your dog out for a run. The same would apply to very hot conditions – over 25 degrees Celsius.
Your spaniel will enjoy running when it is raining lightly and the temperature is not too warm or cold – in the main the same type of conditions that would suit and be enjoyable for you.
What age should I start taking my spaniel running?
You need to wait until your spaniel is fully grown – around 18 months to 2 years old – before you take him running.
If he is much younger than this then you can run the risk of causing him injury as his bones and muscles are still growing and developing and the actions and impacts of running could affect his future health.
Should I feed my spaniel before taking him running?
You should avoid giving your spaniel anything to eat for at least an hour before you go running.
Dogs can suffer from a potentially fatal condition which affects their stomachs if they exercise too much on a full tummy so don’t feed him before you go out.
When you return, after your run, make sure that he has access to lots of fresh and clean water and give him his meal at least an hour after your run.
What do I need to take with me when I am going running?
You should have a couple of dog water bottles on you to give your spaniel a drink during your run.
You’ll also need an lead that is suitable for running with – the common types that most people use, attach to your waist, allowing you to run as normal while keeping your dog safe.
It is also a good idea to have some form of dog first aid kit with you, just in case your spaniel experiences an injury.
FAQs
At what age can I start running with my Cocker Spaniel?
It’s generally recommended to start running with your Cocker Spaniel once they’ve reached skeletal maturity, typically around 12 to 18 months old. This helps to avoid potential damage to their growing joints and bones. However, always consult your vet before starting any new exercise regime with your pet.
How much running is healthy for a Cocker Spaniel?
Cocker Spaniels are an active breed and generally benefit from at least an hour of exercise per day, which can include running. However, each dog is unique, and their exercise needs can vary depending on factors such as age, health, and overall fitness level. It’s crucial to gradually increase the running distance and speed to allow your pet to adjust to the new activity.
Are Cocker Spaniels good running partners?
Yes, Cocker Spaniels can make excellent running partners. They are energetic, eager to please, and love being active. As a smaller breed, they may be better suited to shorter, more frequent runs than long-distance marathons. Their friendly and sociable nature also makes them great companions during outdoor activities.
What precautions should I take when running with my Cocker Spaniel?
Always ensure your Cocker Spaniel is well-hydrated and avoid running in excessively hot conditions, as dogs can easily overheat. Pay attention to signs of fatigue or discomfort, and always have rest days between runs to allow your dog’s body to recover. Also, it’s important to keep them on a lead unless you’re running in a secure, traffic-free area.
How can I train my Cocker Spaniel to be a good running partner?
Start by getting them used to walking on a lead. Gradually increase the pace to a jog and then to a run, ensuring your dog is comfortable and happy at each stage. Consistent commands can help them understand when to start running, slow down, or stop. Remember to reward good behaviour with treats or praise to reinforce positive habits. Additionally, training them to avoid chasing wildlife or other distractions will make your runs smoother and more enjoyable.
Final Words
Your Cocker spaniel will enjoy running with you providing that you introduce him to the activity gradually and carefully.
Don’t overdo it, consider the weather conditions and the surfaces that you will run on and be prepared to change your routine to accommodate your dog.
Running is a great way for you and your spaniel to keep fit and reduce weight.
If done with your dog in mind you’ll have a great running partner.
Dogs want to be with their families, and they enjoy being around the rest of the pets in the house.
The majority of dogs do not like being left alone. This is true even of dogs that seemingly enjoy their own company.
People who are away from home all day can find it difficult to provide the social stimulation that dogs need to be happy.
Dogs, like people, become lonely and bored when they spend too much time on their own. When you work full-time, your pet will appreciate having a canine buddy.
If you can’t find a way to work from home, or if you need to leave the dog at home alone during the day for other reasons (e.g., taking care of ill or elderly parents), there are steps you can take to make those hours less stressful for your pet.
Many dogs struggle with separation anxiety, which can lead to howling, barking, and even destructive behavior as the dog expresses his sadness and frustrations at being left alone. Our 10 Tips for Dealing with Dog Separation Anxiety might help you and your pet.
Early warning signs of separation anxiety in dogs
The typical indicators of separation anxiety in dogs, such as howling and barking, and destructive behaviour, are well known.
However, there are additional indications to watch for that might suggest that your dog is nervous when you leave him alone.
Destructive behaviour – this is frequently aimed at the place where you departed, with doors, wallpaper near the door, and even furniture being attacked and destroyed as the dog demonstrates his anxiety and stress about being on his own.
The most common symptoms of anxiety in dogs are barking and howling, which is when the dog screams for his pack and family to return and calls out in an attempt to get their attention.
Even housetrained dogs may be unable to relieve themselves when their anxiety gets out of control.
This is not the same as being lazy. If you haven’t bothered to take your dog for a walk before leaving him, it’s no surprise that he has relieved himself in the house. A bursting dog will go if necessary.
The dog may be pacing back and forth if it is worried or unable to calm down.
Excessive drooling, panting, and drooling are all warning signs that a dog may be afraid or worried about something.
When dogs are anxious, they may cut themselves in order to alleviate the discomfort. Front legs and paws are sometimes affected, which are within easy reach of the dog’s teeth.
Vomiting – the dog becomes so upset that he usually retches up with anxiety.
Dogs of all ages can suffer from separation anxiety
What causes separation anxiety in dogs?
Your dog is at home with the family or some members of the family in normal situations.
He has company, and he feels safe and secure.
He becomes anxious and exposed as soon as he is left alone.
His family – the pack – has all departed, leaving him.
Your dog has no concept of work, going to the shop, school, and other commitments and activities that humans undertake.
When you leave him alone – you’ve abandoned him and may not return.
As a result, he becomes concerned and anxious, attempting to escape if they can’t do so. Every time you depart, it’s over for them.
Some dogs are more likely to suffer from separation anxiety than others.
These pets have not been exposed to being left behind in a safe environment, so they are unable to learn that nothing terrible happens when the family is gone.
Dogs with no previous experience of being alone can develop this behaviour if their owner has to work long hours, travel frequently, or spend time in hospital.
Dogs suffering from separation anxiety can be very vocal and persistent, with some dogs crying for more than six hours a day.
Some affected pets bark and bark the entire time you’re gone, and howl as soon as any member of the family departs.
This condition is frustrating for both dog and owner and can lead to destructive behaviour.
Causes of separation anxiety in dogs
There are various reasons why some dogs may suffer from this problem more than others.
However, the common underlying factor is that they have not been exposed to being left at home on their own.
This causes these pets to be frightened and anxious whenever they are separated from their family – the pack.
There are some dogs that suffer from separation anxiety because of an emotional disorder, such as depression and feelings of panic and stress.
Other pets may be affected if they were weaned too early or moved away from their mothers and litter mates too early. The social nature of dogs contributes to this type of anxiety, and it can begin in the dog’s early months.
Boredom and loneliness can also cause a dog to develop separation anxiety. Dogs that suffer from this problem need regular exercise and stimulation, or they become frustrated and distressed when you leave them at home alone.
Pets that have a history of abuse or past difficulties may also be more likely to suffer from this problem.
The ThunderShirt is a great choice for an anxious dog
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How to treat a dog suffering from separation anxiety?
As a result of the pet’s previous experiences or emotional disposition, these special dogs have not learned how to cope with being alone.
Their keen sense of smell may also lead them to think that their family is nearby – even when they are 50 miles away.
This can be hard to handle for some owners.
If your dog has separation anxiety, the first thing you should do is to take him to a veterinarian.
Many times, this problem can be due to physical ailments that have not been diagnosed.
Your vet may prescribe medication or other treatment if physical problems are involved.
You can do a lot to help your dog with separation anxiety, and many of the steps are simple and straightforward to put in place.
The first things you should think about are your dog’s safety.
Anything that might harm or injure your dog should be removed.
Make certain that any chemical pesticides or cleaners are out of the space, as well as electrical leads and cords. At the very least, unplug the supply.
You must dog proof the area in the same way that you would toddler-proof your home when young children are around — adopt a similar approach with your dog.
Make sure that your dog has a pleasant, comfortable bed and lots of clean water. A supply of toys, as well as maybe a handful of goodies to keep him entertained, would also be beneficial.
How to help your dog deal with separation anxiety in 10 easy steps
There are several methods for dealing with separation anxiety in dogs, but the the most popular and simple ones are:
1. A dog cage or an indoor kennel – a kennel indoors may provide a sense of security to your dog because it is almost like a cave and the walls and roof offer protection and enclosure.
Cover the top with a cloth and make sure that the interior is cozy as well as a safe place for your dog to relax.
Allow him access to this area while you are at home, and encourage your pet to sleep in it by leaving the door open.
2. Calming herbal remedy – using an herbal remedy is a fantastic way to help your dog deal with separation anxiety without resorting to medication.
These special calming formulas replicate the effect of serotonin on the brain, and change their biochemical behaviour.
3. Treat dispenser toys – a special treat dispensing toy can be a tremendous help in resolving this problem in dogs because it fulfils the dog’s need to work for its food and provides a welcome distraction from any anxieties or stress.
You can use this method with both puppies and adult dogs, including older pets who have been dealing with separation anxiety for many years.
4. A new collar and lead – a new collar and lead can help you to start the training process, and they may also help your dog build up his confidence around you too.
New things tend to be more exciting than familiar ones, so this is an inexpensive way of encouraging your pet to view you as his absolute best friend.
5. Positive reinforcement training – using positive reinforcement techniques will let your dog understand that it is good for you to leave him at home alone, and help him to build up his confidence .
This will help your dog to understand that when he is on his own, it’s nothing for him to worry about because he has already earned something wonderful during the absence.
6. Classical conditioning – this is a simple method that can also help your dog build up his confidence, enabling him to deal with separation anxiety much more quickly.
To begin classical conditioning, you should leave the radio on when you are at home and leave the room; then return after five minutes.
Use this time to give your pet some treats. Every time you repeat this process, gradually increase the number of minutes that you are out of the room.
7. Exercise – By taking your dog out for a good walk you will help him to become tired which will relax him and help him sleep while you are away. If you include some training exercises or play some enjoyable games that challenge him mentally, then he will return home ready to rest and sleep, reducing his chances of becoming anxious when you have to go out.
8. Consider a dog walking service or doggy day care. These can be great options for a dog – they will have access to human company and other dogs, which will help them with their doggy social skills. You’ll also benefit, as you’ll be assured that your pet is safe and is enjoying himself.
9. Medication – In severe cases, your vet may advise you to try medication as well as the behavioural methods outlined above.
Always check with a specialist vet to make sure that your method of choice is suitable for your pet’s needs.
10. Using a Thundershirt – these special shirts can be enormously helpful in calming your dog and helping him to deal with the anxiety he feels when you are not at home.
They can help both puppies and adult dogs, and they do not cause any kind of side effects.
Final Words
Anxiety is a common issue among dogs, and it occurs more often than people think.
You can assist your dog deal with his separation anxiety by considering a few things.
-Medication (in severe cases)
-Exercise and training exercises
-Keep calm and don’t worry; your pet will sense your emotions.
-Leave the radio on when you go out of the house and come back after a short time to reward him with cuddles, treats and praise.
As with all things, you should consult with your veterinarian to obtain the most out of their expertise, since they may also be able to assist your canine friend.
