When we had Willow at 8 weeks I was gob smacked at just how much energy she had. Although we had researched the breed and was aware of this I still couldn't get over it in reality. When she was having 'a mad one' her eyes would seem to glaze over and there was no reasoning with her. She was worse with OH as he seemed to wind her up more than I did. I would then have to hold her to calm her down and rub her chest and her ears to relax her. Its like they go in a 'zone'. She is 8 and half months now and it does get easier I promise you although thats no comfort at the mo for you.
Willow reduced me to tears some days and I had a few days where I though I had bitten off more than i could chew!! She drew blood a few times whilst getting over excited during play and once OH had a huge nick taken out of his nose. I had a few times where I was at my wits end.
Willow is 8 and half months now and she is so much calmer. I found after a few months of having her she would have her energy times, a walk then eat and then sleep, she soon got into a good routine that we both understood. At first when we had her the first 3 hours after waking were awful and there were times where it was difficult beyond belief. Once Willow got to 6 months we changed her from puppy food to junior food and that made loads of difference. She did get easier before then to.
She does still have the odd made 5 minutes, but I feel more in control of calming her down, she is still quite challenging when she plays with my mums dog and goes in the 'zone' when she is there.
I found mentally stimulating games like hiding treat and balls for her to find would wear her out more than physical play.
If you want any more advice although Im no expert please PM me as we were new to cockers and puppy ownership when we had Willow we did struggle, however she is so good now and hardly any trouble at all. There is light at the end of the tunnel for sure
Maddy
