Cocker Spaniel Adoption? Cocker Rage???

Question

I am thinking about getting a dog. I live alone, in a 2-bedroom house. The yard is not fenced in, and I don’t plan on fencing it. So it would have to be a house dog that goes for a couple of walks a day. I’d prefer an adult, somewhere between 2 and 5 years old. I don’t care if it's a pure-bred or mutt. I’d prefer a small to medium dog, no more than 50 pounds, but not a teacup or toy either.

I saw a cocker spaniel at the local humane society. He’s about 3 or 4 years old, seems friendly but not jumpy, he’s been there for a while (I’ve forgotten why), already housebroken, already neutered. The people there think he would be a good match for me, and I agree - except this whole Cocker Rage thing. How prevalent is the problem? Is there a certain age that it manifests? Should I get a mutt instead? What other breeds should I consider?

Thanks!

Answer 1

If this dog has been at the shelter a while they should know by now if he has "rage syndrome".

Once seen it is hard to miss and IME anything that causes stress can bring it on so they should have seen it at the shelter.

Answer 2

Cocker rage is not as common anymore as it used to be. It seems most likely to occur in the deep red colored ones. If the dog's temperament is good, I wouldn't worry about it too much. Since the dog has been there for a while the staff would probably have noticed if he'd had any rage episodes.

Remember that Cockers are fairly high-maintenance, grooming-wise. Unless you keep them shaved, they need regular, thorough brushing, and cockers should see the groomer every 6-8 weeks if they are being kept in a long coat, every 3 months or so if they are kept shaved. Cockers are affectionate and intellegent, but can be stubborn and some can try to be bullies to get their way. They need firm but gentle treatment, and obedience training is always beneficial.

Answer 3

Cockers do not have "rage" . . . unless they come from bad breeding. If you have visited him several times and he seems calm and sweet to you (a stranger) I don't think he has "rage". Cockers make great pets. They are very loyal and aim to please. The only precautions I'd like to give you is they have "piddle" problems. They pee when overly excited or scared. This is very very very common so if you do get him and this happens, don't worry, it's completely normal. There are ways to prevent it (for the most part). Also, with their floppy ears, they can be prone to ear infections. They should be good as long as the are kept clean. This is also a dog that requires regular grooming. It sounds like a lot of work . . but they love they give you in return is simply priceless. I really hope you decide to take that little guy home. Good luck!

Answer 4

have had cockers for years. have cockers now, they love to play! both are 6 years old.
of the cockers we have had (5 over the years) 1 would spaz out when left alone for more then a few hours, had to ensure the house was picked up so she wouldn't chew things up.
ask the shelter if you could take him home for a couple of days see how he acts.

Answer 5

Cocker Rage