Cockapoo demonstrating snappy/aggressive behaviour

[Greatdomestic]

Hi

Cockapoo is female, just under 1 year old, been dressed.

Over past few days she has been snappy, growly and I would say aggressive several times.

This is not like her, she is normally affectionate and well behaved - if anything is getting too much for her, she will give a warning and wander off.

Last night I got close and her ear stinks. I think ear infection, she will not see the vet for a couple or hours.

Could this have caused the change in her behaviour, or is it something else?

Today she has only had short walks and is sleeping a lot.

Thanks in advance.

It's entirely possible that her behaviour is the result of the ear infection, being unusually short tempered is a very common sign of a dog being in pain.

Cockers can be prone to chronic ear problems and it's something their crosses can be predisposed to as well. It's worth getting in touch with her breeder to ask if any close relatives have suffered with it.

Thanks cornflakes, ear infection confirmed by vet.

Definitely start with desensitising her to ear cleaning/care - ear infections are very sore and it's better she gets used to her ear being handled to facilitate future treatments