Thanks Kayc for advice re:our 7 month old cocker barking.  My husband eventually went to her and did same as me didn't fuss but let her out of cage and into garden for 10mins.  He then put her back in cage and came to bed using our usual routine and she settled this time.  Was told this morning by a person I bump into when dog walking that it could be her hormones and its just like going through the teenage years of kids -  just hope it won't last long.  As regard to friends not sure they would admit how much they would have spoilt her as they think I'm a bit strict! She is our FIRST family dog and because of this I have taken advice from champdog website, read the perfect puppy book and taken her to puppy classes and the underlying advice from all is to be consistant, and keep to boundaries within your own circumstances.  So although she isn't allowed of furniture, sleeps in cage at night and is not encouraged to go upstairs we do all love her very much and she gets lots of cuddles and fuss from our three boys.    Just hope now kids are back at school and we return to rountine of life it will help her to settle again. 

Thanks again

with regards

Mandy and Maizie xx

Mandy, you will need to register if you wish to make any futher posts please :)