CockersOnline Forum

Cocker Specific Discussion => Behaviour & Training => Topic started by: Mina on February 12, 2025, 03:41:19 PM

Title: Looking for a behaviourist
Post by: Mina on February 12, 2025, 03:41:19 PM
Hello,

Would anyone on this forum have a recommendation for a very good behaviourist (anywhere in the UK) preferably experienced with cockers? My two girls have multiple behavioural problems, which have escalated over time and they have now started to fight each other. I will need professional help to correct these deep-seated issues, but finding a trustworthy, reliable and knowledgeable behaviorist who uses modern, positive techniques without a recommendation and just by searching online is turning out to be a near impossible task. I would be so very grateful for any tips you could give me.

Thank you in advance,

Tanja
Title: Re: Looking for a behaviourist
Post by: phoenix on February 16, 2025, 02:27:27 PM
That?s so upsetting for you all.
https://www.topbarks.co.uk/about
Mark  of Top Barks , is a long term member of Col, and knows cockers well. He is in York , but I?m sure he can advise you on how to cope with the problem and find someone responsible near to where you live. Email him.
 I?m in Sheffield and used a patient trainer, called Boneyfido, with my reactive rescue terrier. I had one lesson a month which gave me time for plenty practice between lessons . This was cheaper than having normal weekly group lessons. I wish I had done this with my cocker!
Are your girls both neutered? The word bitchy comes from the dog world. 
Title: Re: Looking for a behaviourist
Post by: Mina on February 17, 2025, 11:09:52 AM
Thanks so much for the tip! I will contact Mark immediately.

Yes, they were both neutered at around 3.5 years of age. It didn't make any difference to their characters or behaviour, though. They can certainly live up to "bitchy" at times...  :005: