Cocker Spaniels are known for their affectionate nature, intelligence, and boundless energy. Bred as working gundogs, they form strong bonds with their owners and often thrive on routine, praise, and reassurance. However, their sensitive temperament also means they can be more prone to stress or anxiety in unsettling environments—particularly when the skies darken and the thunder rolls in.
Why Thunder Can Trigger Anxiety
Sudden, loud noises like thunder can be deeply unsettling for many dogs, and Cocker Spaniels are no exception. With their sharp hearing and alert personalities, they often pick up on the rumble of thunder or change in air pressure before humans do. Add to that their emotional responsiveness, and it’s no surprise that many struggle to relax during storms.
Storm-related anxiety can show up as:
- Pacing or restlessness
- Whining or barking
- Hiding in confined spaces
- Panting excessively
- Shaking or trembling
- Following you from room to room
Understanding Your Spaniel’s Stress
It’s important not to dismiss your dog’s reaction as just being “needy” or “spoiled.” Thunderstorms can genuinely be overwhelming. For Cocker Spaniels, whose instincts tell them to read and react to their environment quickly, it can feel like a threat they simply don’t know how to escape from.
Some dogs associate storms with previous traumatic experiences—perhaps they were left alone during one, or had a bad scare. Others may simply be genetically more prone to noise sensitivity. Either way, it’s a problem that deserves attention, patience, and understanding.
How to Help Your Cocker Spaniel Settle
There are several ways to help your dog feel more secure during stormy weather:
1. Create a Safe Space
Give your spaniel a quiet, enclosed area where they can retreat. This could be a crate with a cover over it, a comfortable corner of a room, or a low traffic area within your home. Some dogs prefer being near their owner, while others do better tucked away.
2. Stay Calm and Reassuring
Your energy affects your dog’s response. Try not to fuss too much, but do remain present, speak softly, and offer comfort without over-stimulating them. Cocker Spaniels often mirror their owner’s anxiety—so your calmness is key.
3. Practice Desensitisation
Some owners have success using controlled recordings of thunder to help desensitise their dog over time. Start with the volume low and associate it with positive things. Progress slowly and only if your dog is relaxed.
4. Speak to a Professional
If your spaniel’s anxiety is severe, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
A Lifetime of Support
Cocker Spaniels are wonderful companions, but they often need a little extra emotional support to navigate life’s louder moments. Thunderstorms may never be their favourite experience, but with the right preparation and a calm, understanding owner by their side, they can learn to settle—and even snooze—through the storm.
Watch here : The Reality of Cocker Spaniels