How to Train a Cocker Spaniel

Cocker spaniel puppies are the cutest things on earth, but they can be a handful. The breed is generally very sweet and very social; they like people, they like to play, and they usually get along well with children. Breeders identify cockers as fairly intelligent dogs; originally bred to flush birds, they are a hunting breed, and they can be trained. Train your cocker spaniel well from the start, and you’ll have a delightful companion.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Touch-test your puppy before deciding to make her part of your family to make certain you will be the dominant one in the dog-human relationship. Gently roll her on her back and put your hand on her tummy to hold her down; fiddle with her paws and ears. If she’s fine with it, that’s good. If she growls and snaps, she may prove to be a handful.

2. Prepare yourself to train your cocker spaniel. You will need to be patient and gentle, but firm, as you work with your dog. It’s important that you maintain your position as top dog. Walk her and groom her to help her work off her nervous energy. Then get to work.

3. Before you can teach her anything, you need your dog’s attention. Start in a quiet place with few distractions. Stand near your dog, a little off to the side. Say the dog’s name one time; if she looks at you, praise her and pet her. If she ignores you, whistle or clap to get her attention; don’t say her name over and over. As soon as she looks at you, praise her and pet her, and maybe give her a treat. Practice this exercise until your dog responds to her name every time.

4. Now that you have her attention, teach your dog to “Sit.” This very useful command can help you keep her out of all kinds of trouble. Stand in front of your cocker spaniel with a treat in your right hand. Let her smell the treat. Say “Sit,” and move the treat over the top of her head toward the back. Her head will follow the direction of the treat, and her bottom will land on the floor in a sit. Praise her, pet her and give her the treat.

5. Train your cocker spaniel to “Stay.” Stand in front of her and tell her to “Sit.” Raise your left hand, palm facing the dog, and tell her to “Stay.” She may not understand, but if she does stay for 5 seconds, reward her with a treat; she’ll catch on. Repeat this exercise several times; give her a signal to let her know you’re releasing her from the command each time. If she moves, start over with no treat. Once she masters the basics of “Stay,” practice the command as you step away from her.

Tips & Warnings

• As your cocker spaniel becomes more sure of your commands, you can stop rewarding her with treats.

Resources

• American Kennel Club, Cocker Spaniels