cocker spaniel

[averley]

what does any one think to a cocker wearing a water proof coat ? I have always been of a mind that a cocker is a working dog and can cope with all weathers but when we go out and its tipping down , I'm all cosy wrapped in my waterproofs and he looks up at me with such sad eyes i am beginning to wonder.

Also we are picking up a cocker pup in 4 weeks and i wonder what anyones thoughts are on how best to introduce him to our 2 year old cocker ( who is very friendly and laid back) who has had the house to himself ~ the breeder suggested we should let Alfie find the pup in tha garden rather than bring him straight into the house and to cage train the pup as we did Alfie. Any more advice would be very welcome
thanks

[Goofy]

Very few dogs mind rain, so unless he looks really miserable (no tail wagging, and doesn't even want a walk) I'd leave him without a coat.

I agree with the breeder about meeting outside. All dogs like to be able to 'escape' from another dog if necessary, so both would feel safer outside where they have a chance to run. I doubt you'd have any problems.
Also agree with cage training, as it will keep pup safe while you are not around.
Good luck with them both.

[kita1]

I don't see any harm in a coat, it would save drying him off when he comes in!!

If you do try one though don't get a very expensive one, try a cheap one first. I got a coat for my giant breed dog (he is getting on a bit and has arthritis), after the first two or three times he now refuses point blank to wear it!! He hates the rain but would rather go out in the rain than have the coat put on!!! Lucky it only cost 15 pounds!

As regards introducing the pup, if you are collecting him in the car take Alfie along and then just return to the house together. I just act like it is a perfectly normal thing and pup has been here for ever, nothing to make a big deal out of.

I have always used a cage for my pups, it gives the older dog time out from the pup and you can seperate them safely when you cannot supervise them.

Good luck, enjoy your new pup!

[lankeela]

If the dog's coat has been clipped, then a coat would be a good idea to keep him warm if the weather is particularly damp and cold. If he has a full coat, then he should be fully protected, as the outer coat keeps the wet and cold from getting in to the skin.

Also an older dog might appreciate a coat if he is a bit arthritic or stiff in his old bones.

Can't add any more to the introduction question, introducing them away from the house and letting them get on with it but making sure the older dog can get away from the pup all sounds like excellent advice. I always use a cage for the protection of the pup and to give both animals a chance to get away from each other.