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Cocker Specific Discussion => Behaviour & Training => Topic started by: Sheepscheeks on June 08, 2010, 09:22:07 PM

Title: Is it the weather or is he bored?
Post by: Sheepscheeks on June 08, 2010, 09:22:07 PM

We had a great week away last week in The Lake District - Freddie (nearly 8 months) had a whale of a time and loved the streams, tarns and rivers to splash in! I know he is adolescent (increased toy/bed humping, scent marking) however, since we have been back he has been barking a lot more and sometimes whining in the house, for attention I think. He has also been quite growly with my DD's (not the usual playful growl but a slightly more threatening one and not all the while - just in the late afternoon/early evening). Do you think he is bored to be back at home or could the oppressive weather at the moment be having an effect? He is behaving normally in every other way. :huh:

Title: Re: Is it the weather or is he bored?
Post by: spanielcrazy on June 08, 2010, 11:59:04 PM

I would think that boredom would be a factor; on holiday everyone is relaxed, he gets more attention and way more excercise and stimulation so going home must be a let down (for all  :005:)

He may be getting reaquainted with all the noises of home so that may be the barking. Not sure about the growly thing though  :-\

Title: Re: Is it the weather or is he bored?
Post by: Top Barks on June 09, 2010, 10:18:07 AM

At 8 months it also could be a second fear stage kicking in, but no way to be sure. ;)

Title: Re: Is it the weather or is he bored?
Post by: Mittens on June 09, 2010, 12:39:01 PM

I can empathise - We were in Dorset with ours last week - ditto on the fun and excitement front - back home now and yesterday was the first time in 10 days me and OH had both been out at work for part of the day at same time.... came home to find shredded birthday and anniversary cards all over the dog beds and floor.... I very definitely think it's an "Oi, how dare you leave me to my own devices after all that lovely attention' thing in our case!  :005:

Title: Re: Is it the weather or is he bored?
Post by: Sheepscheeks on June 10, 2010, 03:34:58 PM

Quote from: Top Barks on June 09, 2010, 10:18:07 AM

At 8 months it also could be a second fear stage kicking in, but no way to be sure. ;)

So what's a second fear stage?? :huh:

Title: Re: Is it the weather or is he bored?
Post by: Top Barks on June 10, 2010, 07:56:37 PM

it's a stage they go through in puppyhood where they become worried about things they have never bothered about before. ;)
It might explain the barking however it could also be attention seeking or frustration.
tis impossible to know without seeing it.