This dog owner is concerned over his Cocker Spaniel’s behaviour. It seems as if she has a vision problem, because she chases invisible “bugs. Is this the case, or is it something else entirely?

Question

Hi,

We have a 5 year old black Cocker Spaniel. Her name is Shelby. Recently, Shelby has been acting like she’s been chasing bugs that aren’t apparent to us. She’ll sit on the couch and will “watch,” bugs that aren’t there at all. Every so often, she’ll snap at them or jump up to try and catch them. It is a pretty strange thing to watch.

My wife thinks Shelby might have a vision problem that is causing her to “see,” bugs.

We have suspected that Shelby’s vision isn’t great. Sometimes she misses seeing her ball when it is in plan view to us.

Any ideas about what is going on here?

Thanks,

Tim

Hi Tim
Do not encourage this behaviour.
Unfortunately without taking a case history it sounds as if she could be developing a compulsive disorder which can become pretty serious. By all means check your dog’s eyes for any vision problems but I have my doubts.

You really do need the help of an experienced behaviour consultant.
Good luck
Glynne