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Cocker Specific Discussion => General Cocker Spaniel Discussion => Topic started by: theshrew on August 18, 2020, 11:16:20 AM

Title: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on August 18, 2020, 11:16:20 AM
I thought I’d post about Bailey and keep updating throughout our journey. Perhaps this might give people some insight of what to expect / others might be able to give us some tips along the way.

We’ve been looking for a new dog since around Feb this year. That sounds like a simple task but trust me it wasn’t.

We’ve always had puppies before but with the ridiculous prices people are charging at the moment we thought we would go down the rescue route. It was just a case of waiting for the right dog for us to be looking for a home.

After applications sent for loads of dogs and a lot of disappointment we finally managed to secure Bailey 😍

He’s a 5 year old Ex Breeding dog. Never lived in a house, been on the lead or been around humans before or the ones he has haven’t treated him well, he’s a very scared boy.

So after a long drive we collected him on Sunday. I was surprised he got straight off of the crate and went into the garden. Here he is when we got home.

(https://i.ibb.co/7yX9xyz/6213-DF9-A-14-EA-4272-9-EFE-6817-ADD39-B88.jpg)

He wouldn’t settle the first night and he didn’t like the TV being on, he wouldn’t come into the living room. Loads of changes for him over the last few days. He’s had his plumbs chopped off, a long car ride and a new house so it’s a lot for him to take in.

Day 2

I didn’t really want to take him on a walk just yet with him having lots to deal with already over the last few days and hadn’t had a lead on before. However he hadn’t had a poo 💩 so thought I’d have to. We drove him to a quiet field, sure enough it worked. It was a bit more like doing the tango than a walk but he seemed to get the hang of it to a fashion after some persuading. We even managed to walk home along the road.

Another walk last night along the road he did really well all things considered. The traffic didn’t bother him so that’s great progress.

He won’t come to us yet but at least he feels comfortable enough to fall asleep near us and near the TV now. It’s going to be a long road to get over his fear of humans, I can see he wants to do things just not sure about it. I think he’s got the makings of a great dog.

(https://i.ibb.co/GR2vZJG/AF7693-F1-C525-4696-8-C82-8-EB348-C90-CCB.jpg) (https://ibb.co/fHpY3SZ)

(https://i.ibb.co/cDZqZxT/AF153-FAA-0-B06-4-B7-C-8721-C36-A2-EF504-EB.jpg)




 

Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: Jaysmumagain on August 18, 2020, 11:26:10 AM
Ah bless and welcome to Bailey.....it is lovely to see the last pic of to sleepy cockers - am sure there will be ups and downs but am sure he will soon take baby steps.  He looks a sweetie :luv:

I also thinks it's good to take a rescue, we too had always had puppies and with Ollie came our first rescue and yes there has been challenges over the years - but he is worth his weight in gold.

Take each day at a time and good luck with your new additions and will wait to read the updates :D
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: Mudmagnets on August 18, 2020, 12:04:35 PM
Welcome to Bailey, yes he has had a lot of changes, but I am sure with time and your skills he will settle into his new loving home.  :luv: :luv:

 lovely photos btw  :D
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: bizzylizzy on August 18, 2020, 02:05:21 PM
 :luv: ahhhh , he looks just like Humphrey, the way he‘s lying there!!
As you say, baby steps and a lot of very big changes for him, it must be so confusing but with a companion by his side to show him the ropes, I‘m sure he‘ll blossom before long. Looking forward to the updates!,
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on August 18, 2020, 08:06:27 PM
Hey Bailey  :luv: welcome to the team!  What a lovely looking boy. I think he has done really well in such a short time.  So many new things to discover and learn.  When we had Lara we found that just giving her space to find her feet and understand that she could do her own thing was the best way.  She learnt more from the two boys than from us.  Lovely to see him settling so well.  Delighted for you.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: AndyB on August 19, 2020, 03:09:58 AM
 :luv: :luv:

Lucky Bailey to have you.  I too have recently taken on a rescue Cocker, Maisie.  (Always had puppies before but decided as I am getting older a rescue made sense and my journey to get Maisie was difficult too).  She is blue roan and 18 months old.  Maisie has been with me now two and a half weeks and we are making good progress.  When we are one to one she is almost fine now.  Still won't pass me in a doorway.  When I let her in from the garden I open the back door and I have to come back into the kitchen out of her sight before she will enter the house.  Maisie didn't like the TV either at first and barked at it the first time it was turned on.  She has wonderful cuddles in the evening now.  She obviously hadn't been used to going on the sofa but now when I settle to watch TV in the evening and get her fleece blanket she is there, paws up, waiting to be lifted onto the sofa.  She has never made any attempt to jump on the sofa, although I am sure she is quite capable.  She is fine on walks but not great when other dogs approach.  We have not walked where there is more heavy traffic and I'll probably avoid that for a long time.  For the first four nights I had great difficulty in getting Maisie to come back into the house when I had let her into the garden for her late night wee.  I do have quite a large garden so this was difficult.  I realise now we just had to build up the trust and now she comes back to the door when she is ready, admittedly sometimes in her own time.   >:D

When friends or family have come to visit and to see Maisie she is like a different dog.  She retreats to the bottom of the garden, initially barking at whoever is visiting.  She will not come anywhere near them, even people who she has now met 3 times.  When the visitors have gone home she seems to regress back to the more nervous dog she was, reluctant to approach me and it often takes quite a lot of coaxing before she is her normal self again.  It is going to be a long journey but she is soo worth it.  Maisie is developing into a complete cuddle monster and I can often see her gratitude to me for giving her her forever home.  I am Maisie's fourth owner and I don't know what went on in her past but she is developing into a beautiful, loving dog, which was absolutely what I wanted.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on August 19, 2020, 09:56:54 AM
That’s good to hear.

Bailey wouldn’t come back into the house at first but he’s fine now. Like you say we just have to back away from the door.

Yesterday he’s had a roll about a couple of times in the living room which was nice to see. He really wants to get on the sofa with Missy but hasn't got the confidence just yet.

Apart from coming to us for a treat he won’t approach us. But he’s very inquisitive to see what your doing will follow you from room to room but then back off if you turn around. That’s he’s biggest problem once we’ve cracked that I’m sure he will make huge steps. I think it might be a while before we get to that stage though
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on September 10, 2020, 11:50:39 PM
I thought id give an update on Bailey i had planned to be more regular but unfortunately its been manic at work so i've not had the chance.

He's making progress slowly but surely but were heading in the right direction.

After about 2 weeks he would jump on the sofa to be next to Missy he just follows her everywhere. The last few days he's happy enough to hop on and sit next to us to although not that confident with that yet.

He played with a toy all by himself last night which put a huge smile on my face. Missy doesn't play at all these days so that's something he cant pick up on from her.

Walks - He absolutely loves them. He found his voice about a week ago and goes mad when he knows he's going out, He gets so excited but he wont come to use to let us put his lead on just yet but he is getting better with that. While out walking its a little mixed tbh with Missy hes pretty good but pulls like a train when he see's grass. I got him on a long line last weekend and he loved a run about although it was more like having a very young pup did it for a very short space of time then gave up. The best bit was he came to us when he saw Missy did and was happy to be rewarded and stroked a couple of times.

Missy had an issue with her paw last week so we didn't take her out for a few days, he wasn't to keen on that. On the long line he'd try and run off when i turned my back. On the plus side on the way back he walked really nice and kept looking for me for reassurance he'd normally be looking for Missy all the time.

His biggest issue is people approaching him. He will come for treats no problem now he will even climb up and take off my shoulder if im on the sofa. If you try to touch him he will back off very rapidly. Yet he will come and sit next to me and let me stroke him. Thats worse first thing in the morning he kinda takes a step back as hes been alone over night its 1 step forward 1 back at the moment then we will gain 0.1 of a step the next day.

Its going to be a long and at times very frustrating road but a very rewarding one.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: bizzylizzy on September 11, 2020, 06:57:31 AM
 :luv: that sounds very positive, I‘m so glad he‘s making such good progress, he‘s obviously thawing out and feeling secure. As for pulling on the line - well that just proves he‘s a proper cocker   ;) , very frustrating but better than him lagging behind and being disinterested (there‘s always a positive side to everything!!   :lol2:).
Thanks for the update, looking forward to the next episode!  :D
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: Mudmagnets on September 11, 2020, 09:47:41 AM
Aww! That sounds like he is making really good progress, bless him  :luv: :clapping: :clapping:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: Jaysmumagain on September 11, 2020, 10:43:40 AM
Lovely update :luv:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on September 11, 2020, 08:08:36 PM
I think he is doing great, it is so rewarding to see them try new things.  It does take time, but that itself is a luxury for him, as he now gets to make his own choices.  it's like a game of join the dots for him, one day they will all line up and he will make the connection.  A lovely update, thank you.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on October 28, 2020, 02:42:13 AM
Sorry another long wait for an update, work is crazy but at least I’m at home in these crazy times.

Bailey - Well it’s like he’s 2 different dogs at the moment tbh. When he’s happy he’s getting to be like a normal happy cocker to a fashion. That soon turns back into I’m scared I’ve been treated badly before mode. Frustrating as this is its getting better as the days go by.

Tbh his progress 90% is due to Missy, without her I doubt we would be anywhere other than owning another dog. He absolutely adores her and puts 100% faith in whatever she does.

The challenge - he is wary of humans, not as much as he was he’s slowly coming around. Something as simple as teaching a dog to sit has been a huge challenge. The normal raise the hand and the bum sits doesn’t work, he runs off presumably something bad had happened in the past.

Well he’s eventually done it yesterday 😍 Such a small thing is a huge achievement for us, although I suspect it will take a lot longer for it to sink in. A huge step.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: bizzylizzy on October 28, 2020, 06:37:20 AM
That‘s a lovely update, how wonderful that Bailey and Missy have bonded so well, I‘m sure that makes a huge difference.
I can well imagine that the conventional signals we use to train the basic commands aren’t always effective  for a dog that‘s had a lot of negative experiences previously because of they way they interpret our body language. It must be a huge learning curve for you too but it sounds as if you‘re getting there.... :clapping: and of course your little helper‘s doing a grand job!  :luv:
All the best, looking forward to the next update!
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: Mari on October 28, 2020, 09:13:52 AM
Just discovered this thread. Sounds like Bailey is in the right home! I think you (and your little helper) are doing a wonderful job, so much progress already. He reminds me a little of my own dog when I first got her, almost half-feral. His interest in you and your patience with him sounds like a promising combination. It will be so much fun to follow your story!

Just a random idea, but a target stick could help with training if he gets worried about hands. Could be easier to teach him to follow a target than hands if he has negative experiences with the latter. Well done for getting a sit, I can't imagine the challenge of training a dog that has had 5 years to learn all the wrong lessons. Big win for you  :clapping:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on October 28, 2020, 06:44:47 PM
Bailey, you little superstar  :luv:  I think he is doing great, and I agree, you will need to adapt the training slightly.  Missy will be a huge help, as he will always have had dog companions and people will not have been kind.  It takes time to trust and he will possibly never lose that fear completely.  But he is happy and loved and obviously contented.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on November 06, 2020, 02:06:46 AM
We had a clown 🤡 letting of fireworks near hear on Sunday and Bailey wasn’t impressed, Having had dogs when I lived at home who absolutely hated fireworks I feared the worst.

I managed to book the day off work at short notice with the plan of exhausting him with the hope that he may just curl up and sleep.........not very hopeful but hey let’s try.

As planned I took Missy and Bailey for a lovely walk along the Canal at lunch time,  It’s  Bailey’s favourite spot presumably because it’s quite enclosed, he can see a hedge or similar at one side and water at the other so no danger. The pair of them were on form and loving its a great double act, I just so wish Missy was younger and could keep up with him. She’s got her limitations these days so back home we went.

However after a quick brew I got my little mate in the car headed off to the river. He’s not a car fan yet nor am I having a dirty car but we’re both learning 👍 He absolutely shone, it was like Missy was with us but yet she wasn’t. I guess he was still a I'm happy mindset. It just goes to show he doesn’t need To br her around, I think this might be something to tap into going forward.

We covered a lot of miles today and that’s by far the happiest he’s been on a walk while on his own.  He actually acted like a normal dog, running about, wagging tail brilliant so see.

We got home just at dusk as planned with the hope of a nice meal would send him asleep. He’s not moved much more than a raised ear all night.

I did have another plan in place which I will speak of tomorrow.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on November 08, 2020, 10:04:56 PM
Brilliant, he is definitely getting more confident.  That was a worthwhile experiment.  Pleased to hear that he is doing so well.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on November 09, 2020, 01:49:09 AM
Another quick update - Hopefully the firework 🤡 have passed now. Thankfully it’s gone well this year, however we do have an organised event over the road normally. Hopefully this won’t change.

Training

I seemed to have cracked the sit almost. He’s made great progress, in the short time from managing to get him to do it for the first time ( by Christ that was the hard part ) Bailey boy has come on fantastically. After putting so much effort into something you believe in, something you’re doing for the better. It’s really is so rewarding, When you get that look off him you know..........

However recall is the one I want to crack, it’s been my main goal. My end game is obviously so he can be off lead so he can enjoy himself. On his own he will come back to me at the moment but not in a positive way. He just doesn’t trust me fully yet. With Missy he’s much more willing and what I want.



Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on November 25, 2020, 01:45:34 AM
Well the little fella is progressing still although i class him as a traitor  :005: I spend all day every day with him, do everything for him but its apparent his love for my Mrs grows, Yes i'm jealous  :005: I think whatever has happened in the past with him hes not had a good experience with males. For eg if were out on a walk he will let a lady stroke him but wont a male. Having said that his trusting of me is definitely improving, i don't suppose it helps when i give him a bath or other things hes not keen on.

Training, he's very clever i suppose all spaniels are. Its very different with him than dogs I've trained before. Its a challenge,  a bloody long one but really rewarding.

As his trust in me increases the positivity of his recall does also. Its pretty good when Missy is with us ( when she can hear me ) Not a chance id let him off lead for a long time though.

Sit he's had nailed for a few weeks now and tonight after a weeks of trying he's managed a down for the first time then another twice tonight.  :luv: im sure he will improve on that very quick now.

Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: bizzylizzy on November 25, 2020, 07:08:35 AM
 :luv: :luv:
Sounds like Bailey‘s really doing well, I think cockers are clever  little dogs, Humphrey picks things up very quickly, as long as its to his advantage  :005: but he can be soooo frustratingly stubborn!
I strongly suspect Mrs. Shrew is the one who hangs out in the kitchen,  :shades: and you’re not on your own, Humph‘s best pal of the moment is whoever‘s currently opening fridges and larders, the maidservant who runs behind him collecting his poo and washing his feet is completely invisible as soon as OH has an ice cream bowl in his hand!!  :lol2: :lol2:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on November 26, 2020, 09:48:33 PM
Awwww Bailey is mummy's boy  :luv:  So nice to hear of his progress, you have worked so hard with him and it is paying dividends.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on January 02, 2021, 12:54:41 AM
Well another update with Bailey

Progress has slowed tbh he's still very much a mummies boy  >:D

His toilet habits have slightly changed now. Before it would be very rare he would go in the garden this has recently has become more frequent.

He's definitely a lot more confident on his own now when Missy moo isn't around. What did surprise me on Xmas day we went for a walk with my parents and sister + dogs that also gave him confidence not that he was actually interested in them but he starts to run about which he wont when he's on his own.

Hes turning into a cuddle monster and you think yeah we've turned a corner here but the slightest thing can trigger flight mode and it sets you back a few weeks. It really is like an on / off switch

Progress is slow and the bond with my Mrs is definitely not a good thing tbh i think he might be developing separation anxiety when she isn't here. He's fine all day when she comes home from work normally, I'm here with him full time.  He has started to be all worked up this last few weeks when she's been a few hours late coming home pacing about and sitting at the front door.

Anyone be able to give advice on this please ?



Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: Shaun W on January 03, 2021, 09:07:08 AM
That does sound as if he is waiting for Mummy to come home, rather than separation anxiety.
Our old dog used to do the same when my son was due home from school, you couldn’t move her from the window and she would take a treat back to her guard post.

Someone told me over Christmas, that it is due to scent decay, so it’s not so much knowing the time, but recognising the scent has faded to this level, means that x will happen.

Could certainly explain why if I come downstairs early Alfie is just lying there, but at normal time he is sat up waiting for me.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: cazza on January 03, 2021, 09:20:52 AM
 :luv: Bailey is adorable, sounds like he / you are making progress

My two were the same as Bailey waiting for me to come home (apparently as I wasn't here to see it)

In what way is he worked up when Mrs is late home? Could it be he is just getting excited, does she do anything different when she comes home (i.e. does she always give them a treat etc)

Hope it's not separation anxiety and just hyper to see her  - also what's he like if you leave him?
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on January 05, 2021, 01:47:41 AM
:luv: Bailey is adorable, sounds like he / you are making progress

My two were the same as Bailey waiting for me to come home (apparently as I wasn't here to see it)

In what way is he worked up when Mrs is late home? Could it be he is just getting excited, does she do anything different when she comes home (i.e. does she always give them a treat etc)

Hope it's not separation anxiety and just hyper to see her  - also what's he like if you leave him?

Yeah he's very excited when she comes home, tbf he is a little more with the kids and i now. So is Missy when she hears the door which isn't very often these days  :005: She doesn't  do anything different to anyone else - no treats or anything.

We leave them to dry off in the kitchen if there wet after a walk  he's definitely not a fan of that but he has got a lot better now. Apart from that he doesn't really get left alone since the clocks changed. I used to leave him at lunch and go for a run / bike ride and walk him after work but as the dark came in i swapped around. Thinking about it i think ill change back at least he will be getting left for an hour each day. See if that improves things.

 
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on January 05, 2021, 01:57:48 AM
That does sound as if he is waiting for Mummy to come home, rather than separation anxiety.
Our old dog used to do the same when my son was due home from school, you couldn’t move her from the window and she would take a treat back to her guard post.

Someone told me over Christmas, that it is due to scent decay, so it’s not so much knowing the time, but recognising the scent has faded to this level, means that x will happen.

Could certainly explain why if I come downstairs early Alfie is just lying there, but at normal time he is sat up waiting for me.

Yes that's a thing, our previous cocker was definitely affected by scent. She would steal my worn t shirts and boxers and put them in her bed or wherever she was lying.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on January 05, 2021, 02:09:15 AM
The kids got this made for us from a photo for our Christmas present. It’s no masterpiece but it really does capture their faces brilliantly. 

(https://i.ibb.co/gFbBSy0/C9-DF4-CC2-13-B8-42-EF-82-F1-1-DDA3-E708-A93.jpg) (https://ibb.co/7Nx6nv3)
image hosting (https://imgbb.com/)
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on January 05, 2021, 12:20:54 PM
That is gorgeous  :luv: such a nice gift.  I think lockdown and change in routine has probably had an effect on everyone's dogs to some level or another.  Like you, we changed routine with the darker nights, but sill need to redress the balance again.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: cazza on January 05, 2021, 06:36:34 PM

We leave them to dry off in the kitchen if there wet after a walk  he's definitely not a fan of that but he has got a lot better now. Apart from that he doesn't really get left alone since the clocks changed. I used to leave him at lunch and go for a run / bike ride and walk him after work but as the dark came in i swapped around. Thinking about it i think ill change back at least he will be getting left for an hour each day. See if that improves things.

That might be a good idea to leave him and go out for a run etc - hope it helps  :D

This is going to be the hard bit for me as I am now working from home and no sign of returning to the office full time. I used to leave the house around 7.30am and get back about 6pm Mon - Fri so it's all change for me ;) (not that I have a dog at the moment - but mum to be is growing apparently, I am trying not to contact the breeder but it's very difficult  :shades: )
Ooo and before anyone says that is a long time to leave a dog let alone a pup OH was / is at home bar 45min in the morning and @45 min in the afternoon  ;)

What a lovely gift to receive - hope that picture has pride of place :)
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on January 09, 2021, 01:47:14 AM
Good news - Jill has been back at work this week, piece and quiet for meeeeeeee  :luv:

Obviously its the same at home but on a walk his frame of mind really affects how the walk goes

Monday - What a bloody mere, Sulk central - walked like we just got him, sniff sniff sniff wouldn't really walk.
Tuesday - Better but similar
Wednesday - He will sit on the same sofa with but if i sit at the other end = progress on walk to
Thursday - If i call him he sometimes comes and sits with me on my sofa

Friday - He's come and really get nestled in with me - He walked brilliantly today.

Re set weekend incoming  :huh:









Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: phoenix on January 09, 2021, 12:07:17 PM
He’s doing brilliantly. My neighbour fostered a stud dog, from a very well known Crufts champ breeder,Springers. . He was well cared for health wise,but that was it. Institutionalised from living in a kennel, he took a year to get over his neuroses. On a lead ,he just lay cowering. He later became a wonderful,loving boy.   
There is so much for Bailey to cope with, scents, noise, sights, let alone meeting people and dogs, and understanding his instincts.
From my experience,  kennelled breeding dogs, from good or bad backgrounds,  have more complex problems than a rescue stray.  They just need time, a routine, peace and love!
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on January 14, 2021, 01:42:00 AM
Yes i think you are correct really, I think i probably expect to much to soon from him.

The fact he shows so much promise. I'ts clear to see he has the potential to be a normal happy dog yet within a blink of an eye he reverts to the opposite is sooooooo frustrating.

Actually he's started to bond with me a little more this last week or so and let his guard down.



Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on January 14, 2021, 10:46:37 PM
Institutionalised is a good description.  I think you don't really understand the complex needs of an ex-breeding rescue until you have one.  Progress may be slow, but going in the right direction.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on January 18, 2021, 12:33:00 AM
He certainly is  :luv: 

The change in him since the start of the year has been quite a lot tbh. He trusts me a lot more now, the more he trusts you the more love he gives back which is very rewarding.

Hopefully that will progress into trusting me when were outside to - Id love for him to be off lead eventually, thats a big ask though and would be a long time coming i think. 


Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on January 18, 2021, 09:55:40 PM
From memory it took over a year for Lara to have a reasonable amount of trust in us, and longer with hubby as I think the puppy farmer was male.  Time will make such a difference, stick with it.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: cazza on January 22, 2021, 09:58:16 AM
You are making progress with him, small steps going forward (ok occasional backward too ) but in the main going forward

Loving reading his progress  :luv:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on March 26, 2021, 01:09:14 AM
Sorry for the lack of updates recently but the progress has been fairly slow tbh. Its been 1 step forward 2 steps back but gradually getting better.

The last few weeks he's really changed while walking on his own, He would walk slightly behind or actually very well at the side of me before. I keep changing what we do if it doesn't work i've dried other methods, Now he is ever so slightly more confident he's started to get a bit cheeky and even pull. Not what i want but hey this is good for a little while i feel.

Then on the long lead hes normally at a slow canter at best, sniffing every blade of grass. The last 2 weeks THE ZOOMIES HAS STARTED to a fashion and has progressed pretty quickly. It takes ages for him to trust something is ok but when he does he's off + His attention to me has gone from little to pretty high. Today i've had a 100% sprint back for recall which was bloody brilliant  :luv: Just like a proper cocker.

It makes me so happy seeing him so happy, today was like a Eureka moment

Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: bizzylizzy on March 26, 2021, 06:12:46 AM
Wonderful news!! ! What better sign of happy  cockerism than a case if the zoomies!!  :lol2: It really sounds as if he‘s turning the corner, - not only a relief but it must also be very satisfying that your patience and dedication is seeing rewards. Well done to Bailey and very well done to you!!!
I love reading the updates, so keep us posted!  :bigarmhug:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: cazza on March 26, 2021, 08:04:35 AM
Fantastic news - zoomies  :005: Ash has just done her first and I couldn't remember the name we called Fern doing these but zoomies is what we will call them now  ;)

Progress indeed and you should be real proud of what you have accomplished with him, so good to hear his attention is now on you and a fantastic recall no wonder you had an Eureka moment   :luv: :bigarmhug:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on March 27, 2021, 01:00:38 AM
Wonderful news!! ! What better sign of happy  cockerism than a case if the zoomies!!  :lol2: It really sounds as if he‘s turning the corner, - not only a relief but it must also be very satisfying that your patience and dedication is seeing rewards. Well done to Bailey and very well done to you!!!
I love reading the updates, so keep us posted!  :bigarmhug:

Its brilliant, frustrating but very rewarding to see tbh

He really is a very clever boy, its just getting the confidence in him that's the issue. Once he does something its like opening a tap from closed to open very quickly, he just gets it.

One things for sure i know we've done an amazing thing and given him a better life than he had previously.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on April 04, 2021, 10:33:54 PM
Lovely to get an update, and great to hear the zoomies are now a thing!  :D  I think progress has been good.  It's more difficult for you to see it as you are too close.  Happy days.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on May 12, 2021, 11:57:00 PM
Trouble in camp

With Missy getting on a bit on not so keen on going for a walk much recently. We’ve decided Bailey would benefit from having another friend.

I wanted a Golden Retriever if truth be told but I don’t think I could cope with the hair especially not in my car so I decided on a Springer.

Say hello to Daisy 😍

[img width= height= alt=2-F1-D6940-9564-45-D4-8-EDA-77-F3-C7-ACA27-F" border="0]https://i.ibb.co/nDG8Kk0/2-F1-D6940-9564-45-D4-8-EDA-77-F3-C7-ACA27-F.png[/img]

Bailey wasn’t to sure what the score was for the first day or so I guess it’s a big change for him. After just over a week of having her he is really bonding with her.

He’s quite happy to let her sleep on top of him cuddle up etc. The last few days he can see what toys are for, the little fellas put his big boy pants on and dipped his toe into this thing called play 😍🤙 It’s great to see, he’s been making progress in general slowly but surely. This has been a bit of a kick up the backside for him which we were hoping for and will enable him to progress much faster going on this last week it’s definitely working.

I’m itching to get her out on walks now
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: Mudmagnets on May 13, 2021, 09:07:25 AM
Hello Daisy,  :luv:

Is your count 3 now? woohoo   I forsee great fun (and work) ahead, bless 'em all  :cool4: :banana:  :dance04:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: Jaysmumagain on May 13, 2021, 02:25:22 PM
Hello little lady...you look a darling.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: cazza on May 13, 2021, 10:22:29 PM
 :luv: Awww welcome Daisy, you are adorable  :luv:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on June 02, 2021, 12:44:16 AM
A bit of an update,

The girls and Bailey are getting on really well in the main.

It seems Daisy is a welcome addition to the family. Its really unlocked something in Bailey he's playing and generally enjoying himself more. Its sprang some youth back into Missy and gets involved with playing which she hasn't really done for years  :luv: Bailey isn't so keen when the others are playing tug of war, it gets a bit vocal tbh and hes not keen on that.

Id forgotten how much hard work it is to have a puppy, bloody hell she keeps me on my toes. Roll on Friday when she can go out for a walk.

(https://i.ibb.co/YhrgRtc/AC1-A9167-3587-4-DA0-995-C-61-D280-D3-DCBF.jpg)





 

Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: bizzylizzy on June 02, 2021, 06:59:31 AM
Oh what a wonderful picture of perfect doggy  contentment!!!!  :luv: :luv: So glad its all worked out so well for all 3!!! xx
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: AndyB on June 03, 2021, 04:14:45 AM
 :luv: :luv:  Aaaw Daisy is so beautiful.  I love her freckles.  How amazing that she is bringing Bailey out of his shell and showing him how wonderful life can be.  Some years ago when I lost my male cocker tragically at the age of 7, my husband and I had a long debate over about 6 months as to whether to get another cocker.  I was very much in favour before Molly became too old to accept another dog, and my husband was against the idea, partly because he was still terribly upset over losing Harvey so suddenly at such a young age.  Well I won, and we got Jazz, a male, at 8 weeks old when Molly was 8 and we both agreed it had taken years off her.  She really showed him the way, and mothered him a bit, and Jazz was great for Molly, who had always been a bit of a "plodder".  They played together and she really bonded with him.  Enjoy your new girl and wishing you many happy years together.  She is so pretty. 
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: Mudmagnets on June 03, 2021, 10:40:10 AM
Daisy is lovely and obviously been accepted as one of the gang, so lovely when a plan works  :luv:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on June 05, 2021, 07:59:56 PM
Well Daisy, aren't you a little beauty  :luv: Delighted that she has settled in so well and that Bailey has taken it all in his stride.  I admire you getting a puppy, not sure I could cope  :lol:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: Finvarra on June 05, 2021, 10:08:03 PM
 :luv: :luv: :luv: :luv: :luv:
Lesley and Dylan
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on June 08, 2021, 12:14:57 AM
Well Daisy, aren't you a little beauty  :luv: Delighted that she has settled in so well and that Bailey has taken it all in his stride.  I admire you getting a puppy, not sure I could cope  :lol:

Its 10 years since I last had a puppy 🐶. I’d forgotten how much hard work it is tbh 😬 Tbh she isn’t to bad really……. So far.

Ive been able to take her out since Friday which has helped a lot. She’s been great for both of the others. 

Hopefully off lead walkies can start again in the future, im sure Daisy will, fingers crossed Bailey can get to that point. I can’t let Missy off anymore because she’s deaf as a post and going blind. I really miss being able to do it, just something I’ve taken for granted for years.

Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on August 17, 2021, 02:48:22 AM
The Mrs has informed me its a year today we got Bailey. Having a GF does have its advantages at remembering dates etc although were going to my Dads birthday meal next week and we don't Know how old he will be  >:(

Baileys first year - well what to say. From extremely nervous Nigel to very confident at times on walks recently. However hes still converts back to the run away tactic a lot of the time in the house. On the whole i think its an amazing thing weve done which has made his and our lives so much more fulfilled. Extra Sausages for him today. He's such a nice dog bloody wish we had him as a pup.

Daisy - The Springer pup - WFT am i doing with 3 dogs  :005: Absolutely has changed the game. With Missy being 13 now all she wants to do is sleep, wouldn't go for a walk. Bailey wouldn't play, throw a pup in and its like weve knocked 5 years off Missy and Bailey has started to lean what having a play is, he hasn't reached full spaniel spanner mode yet nor do i think he will but its great to see he's got to where he has.

Happy boy,  hopefully even more so going forward :luv:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: cazza on August 17, 2021, 06:20:18 AM
Happy gotcha day Bailey  :luv:

Good to hear you’ve knocked years off Missy with getting Daisy and Bailey is learning to play  :luv:

Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: bizzylizzy on August 17, 2021, 07:35:45 AM
 :luv: Have a lovely Gotcha Day Bailey!!!
(Maybe we need a new addition, Humph‘s getting to be a real stubborn couch potato, >:(  - must have got it off OH, >:( )  :005:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: Mudmagnets on August 17, 2021, 09:29:38 AM
Happy gotcha day to all of you  :happydance: :bigarmhug:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on August 17, 2021, 04:49:39 PM
Happy Gotcha day Bailey  :luv: :luv: :luv:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on December 01, 2021, 01:50:21 AM
Its been a while since ive updated this. The boy is continuing to make progress although steady tbf but the main thing is he's getting there. He's so much more happy now, playing a lot more and trust is building a massively . He even sat on my Mrs Knee for a few mins at weekend.

Anyway we come to tonight and I'm lost a little to his behavior tbh.

Either he was trying to play with Daisy in a way he's never done before ( although i can see him getting to this point ) or i think possibly more likely trying to get his leg over   :luv: :police: :005:

He's an ex stud dog ( lucky b***** ) but has had the old swingers chopped off now poor fella :o

Having never had a male dog before I'm not sure what they do to try and get jiggy. Nor can i remember when bitches have there first season, Daisy i think is about 8 months old now. Over the last few weeks her nips have started to show but we haven't seen any signs of being in season yet.

Any ideas ?



Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: cazza on December 04, 2021, 03:25:47 PM
Ooo sounds like you going to have your hands full when Daisy comes in to season

Ash is 10 months and no season yet, I think they are like us humans and can be anything from 6 months to 2 years for a first season

Sorry can’t help with the other matter
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on December 04, 2021, 07:56:34 PM
Bailey sounds like is doing well.  Not sure boys ever do lose the urge  :D  and although she is young, Daisy may well be nearing her first season. 
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on December 08, 2021, 12:54:09 AM
He’s doing really well tbh. Slowly but surely he’s progressing. Ive never lost the urge either,  Not that it gets me anywhere  :005:

Turns out little the lady has come into season and he’s been trying to sweat talk her  :police: Got ourselves a little blob machine. Tried to put her in an old pair of my daughters knickers which lasted 2 mins.



Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on August 20, 2022, 02:30:32 AM
Not updated for a long time. The last few weeks weve let him off the lead. Very careful where and when tbh but the lads done brilliant with zero distractions. 

If anyone has any tips for stopping them sniffing every blade of grass would be appreciated.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: bizzylizzy on August 20, 2022, 07:09:32 AM
Oh well done Bailey !!!
Sniffing every blade of grass is what life‘s all about, surely? :005: 
My boy‘s not very mobile since a back injury last year, so I‘ve changed my stance quite a bit, we just amble and I let him sniff as much as he likes, or I hide things and let him find them with his nose, I see it as compensation for not being able to race about like he should be doing at his age.
However, - what I used to (attempt to) do  ;) when we went out more often , was interchange between  a harness and a collar, the collar meant „proper walking, i.e. heel or at least lose lead at my side. The harness meant he had a bit more freedom (- i.e. pull my arm off, cock his leg, sniff everything, just all the normal cocker stuff! :lol: ). They do need their sniffs but there are times when you just need to get from A to B and you can’t be doing with all the stop and go.
My trainer recommended it, it does take a bit of training (a bit longer for cockers!  :lol:) but they do get the idea , - eventually !  :luv:
Look forward to Bailey‘s next update!
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: Mudmagnets on August 20, 2022, 08:24:06 AM
Great to get an update

Sniffing every blade of grass? he's just reading his peemail  :lol2:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on August 20, 2022, 09:05:18 PM
Bailey has really come on.  Sniffing every blade of grass is mandatory  :lol2:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on August 23, 2022, 10:37:22 PM
Yeah he’s doing great thanks guys.

His off lead stuff has been really good. Never thought we’d get to that point really but he’s been loving it. I’m not confident enough to let him off when he’s just with me tbf just when the Mrs is with us. Hes  still worried being around males really.

Tbf it’s been quiet nice because the Mrs now comes on walks with us which she’s never really done much before in all the years we’ve had dogs. Baileys happy as hell when she comes and I have someone to annoy tickling her ear with bits of long grass, think I’ve got her most days of the Summer holls, she’s still not twigged on  :005:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on August 24, 2022, 08:27:32 PM
Oje of these days she is going to suss it out and I hope you are quick of the mark!  :lol2:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on September 02, 2022, 02:07:04 AM
Oje of these days she is going to suss it out and I hope you are quick of the mark!  :lol2:

Great Success managed the whole summer holls.  >:D

Bailey has really missed her this week though now she’s back at work. Funny little b***** half his walk today was like when we first got him, the second like he’s been the last few weeks. Same walk etc

Just goes to show whatever has happened to in the past is just imbedded kinda default mode. It’s pretty heartbreaking and frustrating to see tbh. No matter what, the lads 1000000000 times happier now than he was.

Just wish we’d had him as a pup he would’ve been an amazing dog without all the shit he’s obviously been through.

Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on September 02, 2022, 05:43:25 PM
The number of times we said that about Daisy. 'Imagine what she would have been like, if we had her from a pup.'  However, he is amazing, you pushed your luck and got away with it  :lol2: so all is well.
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on October 14, 2022, 01:38:02 AM
A breakthrough   :D

I put on my big boy pants and let Bailey off the lead yesterday for the first time when my Mrs wasn't with us. Massive step forward for him / us. I picked a quiet time and place and we both definitely enjoyed it.

2 years of so many tiny steps towards Bailey becoming a normal happy dog, We've gone from 100% unhappy and scared to probably 70% now. Previously absolute zero Love to 70% Love for me 10000% for my Mrs :luv:

Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: bizzylizzy on October 14, 2022, 07:30:57 AM
What a lovely update!! :clapping: :clapping:! Well done to you both, you‘ve obviously had lots of ups and downs but patience, love and trust have won the day!
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: Mudmagnets on October 14, 2022, 09:04:45 AM
What a lovely positive post, thanks for sharing  :luv:     and a great way to start a day  :D
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on October 14, 2022, 04:35:00 PM
That's so lovely  :luv:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: Finvarra on October 15, 2022, 09:04:42 AM
Happy news 😀
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: theshrew on October 27, 2022, 02:53:21 AM
Old Habits Die Hard

Well as we know Bailey is an Ex Stud dog from a Puppy Farm.

He's been brilliant recently as we've built up off lead work, this has been going really going superb until today...........................He got a Wiff This lads a god dam sex pest ! Trying to get to a German Shephard    :police:

He has had his plumbs removed now the poor lad  :police:

Ive never owned a male dog before, I think Daisy will be coming into season again in the next month ish. Any tips to deter him ? Im guessing not nothing would put me off  :005:
Title: Re: Bailey The Rescued Cocker
Post by: ejp on October 27, 2022, 06:51:32 PM
Poor lad, the urge is strong!  :005: