Expert: Delores Beck - 8/19/2011

Question
Are golden cocker spaniels prone to rage syndrome? I have a disability and my one year old nephew comes to visit me weekly. I can't have a dog that could have that. Please answer ASAP.

Answer
No 1 year old child should be allowed to interact with ANY dog unless the dog is on leash. For the once a week visit, I'd simply crate the dog or gate him in the kitchen or somewhere convenient.  Kids this age don't know how to handle a dog and can unintentionally hurt them.

But no, golden cockers are not prone to aggression.

It seems you're thinking of getting a dog and perhaps haven't owned a dog before?  Cockers need regular daily exercise - they must be groomed once a month - and don't do at all well on cheap, supermarket dog food.

I'd be happy to chat with you about what kind of dog - age of dog, etc. would best suit your household.