A clinical case study of social phobia in a young Cocker Spaniel

Abstract

Gas, a 20-month-old intact male Cocker Spaniel, was presented for behavioral counseling due to aggression toward unfamiliar people and dogs, house soiling after guest visits, and a bite incident involving the owner’s father. In his first year, Gas lived in a house with a large garden, interacting only with his mother, siblings (for two months), and human caregivers. This limited environment impaired his socialization with both dogs and people during critical developmental stages. During the behavioral evaluation, Gas exhibited severe anxiety indoors, including excessive barking, drooling, and tachypnea. When approached, he retreated while barking and circled around his owner. Outdoors, he was hypervigilant and reacted aggressively at the sight of people and other dogs. His responses suggested social phobia within a sensory deprivation syndrome due to inadequate socialization. Treatment focused on strengthening his relationship with his owners, who struggled to reassure him. A structured routine of walks, meals, and training was introduced to promote emotional and physical calmness. Behavioral therapy was combined with Australian Bush Flower Essences and Quieto tablets to reduce anxiety. After two months, Gas showed significant improvement, remaining calmer at home and able to redirect its focus outdoors. Long-term success depends on gradual desensitization, counterconditioning, and collaboration between a veterinary behaviorist and a dog trainer behavior specialist.