Is This Cocker Rage Syndrome?

by Emma
(United Kingdom)

I wonder if you are able to give me some advice about my one year old cocker spaniel.

He shows all the signs of rage syndrome, but do you know if there is a way to determine between this and aggression?

Reply from Pauline (Web Owner)

Hi Emma,

Unfortunately, cocker rage is very often misdiagnosed and many dogs have been needlessly destroyed as a result.

Although not unheard of, Cocker rage is very rare.

You don’t specify the symptoms, so I can’t really help other than to refer you to my article on cocker spaniel rage syndrome, I recommend you read it as it may help you to determine whether or not your dog is suffering from this condition.

You can find the article here - Rage Syndrome - Is Aggressive Dog Behavior The Same As Cocker Rage?

If you still suspect that it could be cocker rage, it might be best if you get it confirmed by your vet and seek professional advice.

If you don’t think it’s cocker rage, then you need to determine exactly what’s causing your cocker to be ‘aggressive’ and have it dealt with as soon as possible before it really gets out of hand. I don't recommend you try to deal with it yourself – this type of problem needs help from the professionals - ask your vet to recommend a qualified dog behavioural specialist.

Good luck.

PS: Very often in males of this age the solution is to castrate - you might like to discuss this with your vet (he'll probably recommend it!).