Author Topic: New Puppy Owner  (Read 2105 times)

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Offline LilyPup

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New Puppy Owner
« on: March 03, 2017, 09:51:40 AM »
Hi all. I recently bought a cocker spaniel pup, who is 9 weeks old today and is named Lily [emoji4] I have had her for a week and she is the sweetest/naughtiest, most affectionate/bitey thing, and I love her to bits already. She is currently fast asleep on my lap and making me lovely and warm.

My family has/had dogs and I have helped in raising a pup at home as a teenager (a labrador) but this is the first dog that is mine. I own her with my long-term boyfriend.

Lily's dad was a stud dog, and is a working cocker who works (though I didn't meet him, I only saw pictures). Lily's mum is also a working type cocker but is just a family pet. She was the sweetest dog I ever met, and I hope Lily turns out like her [emoji7]

I joined the forum hoping to pick up tips/advice on raising a cocker spaniel, as although I have done my research on the breed, it is not familiar to me. I fell in love with cockers a while ago (particularly the working type) for their wagging tails, adorable faces, and infectious enthusiasm. Every cocker spaniel I've ever met just looks so happy to be alive, they always put a smile on my face.

I'm aware that cockers are active little things, particularly the working type. I only have a small garden but live about a minutes walk from 270 acres of parkland, where there are fields, wooded areas, a very large pond, lots of mud, and rabbits to chase. A really great place to walk a dog who likes chasing balls or exploring [emoji1]

I'm also trying to think of activities for Lily to do at home and welcome any suggestions. I have started putting some of her meals in a puzzle ball toy, so that she has to work to get it out. I also hope to do training with her at home, and hopefully teach her some neat tricks [emoji2] she's starting puppy classes next Saturday, which I've decided to do for a bit of extra socialisation for her.

Long post, sorry. But if anyone has any tips for raising my first cocker spaniel puppy, or for keeping her mentally and physically stimulated, I'd really appreciate it [emoji4] thanks!

Offline Mari

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Re: New Puppy Owner
« Reply #1 on: March 03, 2017, 10:32:26 AM »
Welcome to the wonderful world of cockers! Sounds like you are well prepared :)

Only tip I would like to give is to remember that a puppy needs time to learn to relax. I say that because it sounds like Lily is a very lucky girl who will get mental and physical stimulation every day, so I'm thinking you've got that part covered :) But what I forgot when I was a fresh puppy owner is that teaching them to relax is also part of it, especially with excitable dogs like cockers.
For young puppies exploring the world, learning about new enviroments and meeting new people and dogs is usually more than enough stimulation. Especially combined with a little every day obedience and learning how to behave :) I'm sure you know this, but I think it's the most important advise for a new cocker owner.

I like the puzzle treat ball, my cocker. has one of those too. Also any activity that makes them use their nose is good. Hiding treats around the house or spreading food out on the floor is always fun :)

Good luck with puppy classes and enjoy everything, trust me, before you know it your cocker is 10 years old   :005:

Offline Jaysmumagain

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Re: New Puppy Owner
« Reply #2 on: March 03, 2017, 10:52:38 AM »
welcome to you and Lily, am sure you will pick up some advice and if you struggle with anything just post a question......you will be amazed at what folks have answers to :005:
Cocker kisses and cuddles just make my day!


You are always with me darlings Jaypup and my precious Oliver you are so missed

Offline LilyPup

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Re: New Puppy Owner
« Reply #3 on: March 03, 2017, 12:32:29 PM »
Thanks for your replies guys :-)

With regards to teaching Lily to relax, I fully intend to do so and have been trying. The only problem I'm encountering right now is that she's often only willing to settle down if she's curled up on my lap (lol). Now I don't mind, as I never get tired of puppy cuddles, but I don't want her to grow up to be too dependant on me as I'm sure this will cause her more stress in the long run. Sometimes when I'm stood in the kitchen making a cup of coffee, she'll even come over and settle down on my feet. Again, very sweet, but probably not to be encouraged.

I do love the cuddles though <3

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Offline Markr64

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Re: New Puppy Owner
« Reply #4 on: March 03, 2017, 01:15:26 PM »
Hello and welcome, this site has so much information and lots of friendly people who will be there for you in times of need, with good advice and lots of support.

Offline bizzylizzy

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Re: New Puppy Owner
« Reply #5 on: March 03, 2017, 03:00:03 PM »
Hi and welcome to the forum!!
 :005: :005: Washiing up with a cocker snoring on your feet - I think we've all been there!! ..and what do you do when you need the saucepan but its in the cupboard and the dogs asleep in front of it and you haven't got the heart to wake him??  :luv:...
The fun's just begun! Looking forward to hearing more from Lily!

Offline Mari

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Re: New Puppy Owner
« Reply #6 on: March 03, 2017, 04:12:41 PM »
Sometimes when I'm stood in the kitchen making a cup of coffee, she'll even come over and settle down on my feet.



Sounds normal to me   :lol2: 

Offline ejp

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Re: New Puppy Owner
« Reply #7 on: March 03, 2017, 08:31:03 PM »
Can't beat cocker cuddles, just the very best thing ever. Welcome to the forum.

Offline MIN

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Re: New Puppy Owner
« Reply #8 on: March 03, 2017, 09:03:19 PM »
Hi, to you and Lily.
My advice is to Sit back and enjoy the ride. You are just about to start living your life to the full  :005:
Run free and fly high my beautiful Gemma
2011 - 2023 

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Offline Archie bean

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Re: New Puppy Owner
« Reply #9 on: March 03, 2017, 09:49:29 PM »
Sometimes when I'm stood in the kitchen making a cup of coffee, she'll even come over and settle down on my feet.



Sounds normal to me   :lol2:

Archie still does this. He's 5!  :005: Welcome to COL Lily and Lily's mum.

Offline LilyPup

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Re: New Puppy Owner
« Reply #10 on: March 03, 2017, 11:40:02 PM »
Haha it must just be a cocker thing then! Good to know [emoji4]

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