• Encourage your dog to choose relaxation by rewarding calm behaviour

• Build self-control through play

• Ensure your spaniel has constructive ways to use their energy

• Recognise signs of overwhelm

  
  

Spaniels are known for their wonderful energy, enthusiasm and eagerness to engage with the world. But sometimes that "busy" nature can make it difficult for them to switch off and settle. Helping your dog learn emotional regulation doesn’t mean suppressing their personality – it gives them the tools to stay calm, think clearly and feel safe, even when life gets exciting. With gentle, reward-based techniques, you can help your dog feel more secure and build a deeper, more trusting bond.

Encourage your dog to choose relaxation by rewarding calm behaviour

Start by rewarding your dog whenever they choose to lie down on their mat or bed. Use treats and a soft, relaxed voice. Over time, your spaniel will begin to associate this space with rest and predictability, creating a "safe zone" where they can decompress. Keep your own energy slow and steady during this process. Dogs are highly attuned to our emotional states, and your calm presence helps them regulate their own.

Build self-control through play

Play is a brilliant way to teach emotional regulation, especially for spaniels who naturally become excited during games like fetch or tug. Instead of avoiding high-energy play, use it to teach your dog how to pause. Before throwing a toy, ask for a brief “sit” or “wait”. This helps your dog practise impulse control and learn that calm behaviour leads to the fun continuing.

Games such as Ready, Steady, Go, Hide and Seek or Musical Statues are excellent for teaching your spaniel to move from high arousal to stillness. The ability to “switch off” after a burst of activity is a key part of emotional regulation and supports better behaviour in everyday life. 

Ensure your spaniel has constructive ways to use their energy

Spaniels thrive when their natural instincts are supported. Meeting these needs makes emotional regulation far easier, as a dog who feels fulfilled is less likely to become frustrated and overwhelmed. Activities that involve sniffing, chewing and licking are naturally calming and help lower cortisol levels. Try:

• Scatter feeding

• Snuffle mats

• Safe chews

• Lick mats

• Gentle scent-based games

These activities give your spaniel an outlet for their working-breed instincts and help create a calmer baseline throughout the day. A mentally satisfied dog finds it much easier to cope with new environments, visitors or exciting situations.

Recognise the signs of overwhelm

Understanding your spaniel’s early stress signals is essential for supporting their emotional wellbeing. Signs of overwhelm might include:

• Excessive panting

• Spinning or frantic movement

• Jumping up repeatedly

• Difficulty responding to cues

• Refusing or dropping treats

If you notice these behaviours, it’s a sign your dog needs help to decompress. Calmly guiding them to a quieter space, increasing distance from their trigger or offering a soothing activity can prevent escalation and help them feel safe again.

Helping your spaniel regulate and control their emotions is a journey that requires patience and consistency, but the rewards are a happier dog and a more peaceful environment. By focusing on calm rewards and structured play, you’re giving your dog the tools they need to navigate the world with confidence.