Help for Olive the Working Cocker 🐾

Need help with your pet working cocker in Wylam? Bursting with energy and affection, Working Cocker Spaniels are known as the grafters of the field — full of life, eager to please, and always ready for action. It’s easy to see why they make such lovable family companions!

But without an outlet for all that enthusiasm, they can sometimes find life at home a little overwhelming — especially in a busy household with children, as Olive’s family discovered. With a few adjustments, patience, and some fun mental games, Olive’s story became a wonderful example of balance and progress.

Here’s what Olive’s family had to say:

Hi Jayne

I thought I’d get in touch with an Olive update.

I’m really pleased to report that she’s very much calmed down with the kids. I think she’s starting to see them much more as givers than takers, and this is excellent.  We’ve also been doing a lot more on the mental side, playing little games in the house and with balls outside, as well as trying to help Olive control her impulses around food and doorways which is going quite well.

With patience, positive training, and consistency, Olive’s family found the calm connection they’d been hoping for — and a happier, more harmonious home. 🐶💛 Contact Jayne if you need help with yours.

If you’d like to learn more about Working Cocker Spaniels, you can read more about the breed here.

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7 Tips for Kids and the Family Dog 🧒🐕

Living with a dog can teach children kindness, empathy, and responsibility — but safety and respect come first. Here are a few simple tips to keep everyone happy:

1. Dogs aren’t toys! Teach your children that the dog is a family member who deserves gentle, thoughtful interaction.
2. Let sleeping dogs lie. Have children call a wakeful dog to them for calm strokes or cuddles — never disturb a resting pup.
3. Create a safe space. Give your dog a bed or crate that’s strictly off-limits to kids.
4. No kisses, please. Most dogs prefer space. Encourage kids to pet gently while standing or sitting upright.
5. Play fetch, not rough. A game of retrieve is fun, safe, and teaches sharing.
6. Food stays put. Have kids eat in one spot — walking around with snacks is too tempting for a curious dog!
7. Supervise or separate. If you can’t keep an eye on both dog and kids, use a baby gate to keep everyone safe.

For more tips on keeping visiting children safe around dogs, check out this great article from the Blue Cross. 🩵