message to john .Yes Molly is a cocker spaniel.
First time she was aggressive she was on the furniture and tried to move her off gently. Second time was yesterday when I had just groomed her and her paw seemed tender she remained aggressive for awhile afterwards even after sleeping. When she slept she seem full of tension and not relaxed almost rigid. She seems ok today but a bit wary. thanks jenny (tried ti join the champdogs but problem with computer)

The visitors question forum was introduced so that visitors to the site could ask their initial question without having to go to the hassle of registering. It was never intended for repeat postings.

If you would like to answer a post or ask another question, you will need to
Register with us.

:)

Melody

Hi Jenny.
First off I would see my vet. Any change from normal behaviour is due cause to ask your vet if he or she can find a medical reason. Tumours can often put the dog under so much pain that they are not responsible for their actions. Trouble is, dogs are such stoic animals that they do not always show the pain they are in.

There is a condition called Rage Syndrome. I must admit the Cocker people have done wonders to improve the situation but I do still hear of the occasional case. It is more of a mental thing rather than a physical illness. Everything seems fine then for virtually no reason the dog just flies! Back in the 60's a person at my dog club had this beautiful Cocker. At about the same age as yours she started to have what appeared to be a very short temper. The situation worsened and one night, after taking the dog out in the car to their favourite field for a walk, as he opened the back of the car, his dog jumped out, dived under some wood which was piled up, bared her teeth and refused to come out. Eventually the man was quite severely bitten. I have to say that after months of trying the inevitable end happened. I stress I may well be barking up the wrong tree but it is something, however unpalatable, which you aught to be aware of.

Regards, John

Unfortunately the internet is not as good place to search for information on Rage. So many people on there present their theories as proven facts. Talk of dietary problems and inadequacies, Links to epilepsy and all other possible things including the statement that there is no such thing! For what it's worth have a look at this site:-

http://www.cockerspanielrage.org.uk/ragestudy_parker1.htm

Regards, John