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Cockers Spaniels are by nature very playful dogs that seem to possess unlimited energy. Bred as hunters as far back as the 12th century, modern day Cockers retain this instinct to roam and “hunt” which sometimes lands them into mischief. While Cockers may seem easily excitable and sometimes difficult to manage, they are also very intelligent dogs who benefit enormously from lessons in obedience training. In order to harness some of the energy Cockers display and transform it into positive behaviors, training should begin the day a young Cocker is first brought into a new home.
While Cockers are full of energy and enthusiasm, they also possess the intelligence to become highly trainable. In fact, Cocker Spaniels are one of the easiest of the dog breeds to train. There are certain guidelines that must be followed, however, when undertaking this task that will make the path to obedience training easier. First of all, Cocker Spaniels are highly sensitive dogs and react poorly when severely punished by spanking or hitting. In fact, hitting a Cocker Spaniel may actually have the opposite effect as intended and may result in the breed becoming more aggressive and even prone to biting. Other Cockers may respond to punishment by becoming fearful and timid, again which is not conducive to proper obedience training. The key to training Cocker Spaniels is not to use punishment, but rather to use positive reinforcement. Cockers respond well to positive words, petting and stroking, and treats. Therefore, be patient and refrain from punishing your Cocker during obedience training, instead lavishing praise on the dog for good behavior.
There are several techniques to use when teaching your Cocker Spaniel to obey certain commands. Cockers are very bright learners and it shouldn’t take but a few attempts before the dog learns to associate a behavior with a command. Remember: Although either treats or petting can be used as positive reinforcement, be sure to give lots of praise for good behavior and exercise patience and restraint when the Cocker reacts negatively.
Teaching the Cocker Spaniel to “come”.
Place the Cocker on a long leash and stand several feet away. Gently tug on the leash while repeating the command “come”. When the Cocker obeys, generously praise the dog. If the Cocker turns and begins to go in a different direction, you should ignore the dog by turning and walking in the opposite direction, away from it. This response will make the Cocker tend to follow you. Repeat the “come” command again until the Cocker obeys.
Teaching the Cocker Spaniel to “sit”.
Place the Cocker on a short leash and keep the dog’s head up. Repeat the command to sit while pushing down on the dog’s rump. Give the command to “sit” several more times until the dog connects the command with his behavior. Lavish praise on the Cocker and move on to the next command.
Teaching the Cocker Spaniel to “lay” or “place”.
Again use a short leash to better manage the Cocker. Give the command to “lay” or “place” while simultaneously pushing down on the dog’s rump and neck. Repeat the command a few times until the Cocker is able to obey the command without your assistance, then praise the animal for a job well done.
Teaching the Cocker Spaniel to “stand”.
Place the Cocker on a short leash and move the leash up and down to help the dog differentiate the command. If the Cocker tries to sit or lay down, put your hand under the dog’s belly and gently lift it back up to the standing position. Reinforce the command with repetition and praise.
Teaching the Cocker Spaniel to “retrieve”.
Since Cockers were once bred as hunting dogs, they naturally retain the instinct to retrieve. Begin by tossing a chew toy a good distance away. The Cocker will automatically begin to “chase” the toy and then pick it up in its mouth. Since some Cockers may be reluctant to give their “game” back to you, wait until they loosen their grip on the toy and take the toy from the dog’s mouth. Be sure to be generous with your praise at this point since the dog just gave up his “game” to you. Then repeat the act over and over again until the Cocker automatically brings you his “game” in return for praise.
Teaching the Cocker Spaniel to “heel”.
This is perhaps the most difficult command to teach your Cocker since the dog’s natural instinct is to roam. It is advisable to perform this training in a quiet area without lots of distractions. Place the Cocker on a short leash and position it to your left side. Walk slowly and keep a short leash on the dog until it is able to understand the command to heel. Initially, you may find it beneficial to place a small stick in front of the dog’s nose so it will not be tempted to pull forward. Repeat the act until the Cocker fully understands the command and then offer the dog generous praises.
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