Expert: Delores Beck - 7/22/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hi Delores,

I've been having a few issues with my puppy Darcy. He's a beautiful 18 week old cocker spaniel, totally loveable and is of lovely nature.

I have unfortunately encountered a few problems with him.

1. He's been eating/biting the couch tot he extent of it tearing and there are holes (he likes to pull the foam out). He does this when no one is home - I do leave kongs, toys etc for him. One trainer suggested spraying citronella diluted in water which I have, thats not worked. I have tried ignoring him when I come home, not worked. I've tried holding his snout in front of the affected area and said "NO" in a low angry voice...nothings worked...The trainer suggested he suffers from separation anxiety which is a concern and I've done what I can to minimise the distress...ie. leave sufficient toys,kongs, treat balls, radio on and not saying bye when i leave.

I'm at loss as to what to do. This is the one thing I have a problem with.Any ideas/help/advice would be greatly appreciated!

thanks heaps
Lia

ANSWER: First I'd like to know how long he's left alone?

The ONLY way to prevent pups this age from mischief is to "prevent".  Chastising him hours after the act is pointless and he has no clue what you're angry about.  Also he can get very, very sick eating the foam out of the couch..or anything else he might find.

The only effective correction is when they're in the act and I can tell you how to do that.
But, as I said, I need to know his circumstances.  How long is he alone?  Does he have the run of the house (big mistake).  How long are his daily walks?

I don't think this is anxiety - I think it's an 18 week old puppy who's bored :).
Pent up energy & boredom are the chief causes of bad behavior.

So let's chat, Lia and see how we can get you through puppyhood :).
Delores

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: He is unfortunately on his own from around 7am - 5pm. Someone is usually at home in between but admittedly it is a little erratic.

I do take him for 20-30 min walks most days - as long as its not pelting down with rain (its winter in melbourne at the moment).

he's allowed only in the tiled area of the house (which includes the informal lounge which has the couch he bites) with his doggy door accessing to the back deck. I did try leaving him outside while I was at work one day but unfortunately in true coceker spaniel fashion he howled and barked from 7am - 9am and I have elderly neighbours behind who werent very happy about it.

Do you suggest walking him in the morning as well?

The trainer suggested it was separation anxiety only because Darcy never leaves me out of his sight for a minute if i'm home. :)

Thanks soo much for the prompt response.

Answer
Most dogs will follow you everywhere.  I think he's alone too long - doesn't get enough exercise.

Would any of the neighbours maybe pop in during the day?  Doggie daycare?  Is it possible to take him to work with you?  Yes, I'd strongly suggest a morning walk.

When you say "someone is at home inbetween" - who is that and can they walk him?  The whole family needs to be involved.  Can you set things up so he can get in & out but can't access the couch?  My fear is one day he'll chew/eat something that will make him very sick.