Whining when I walk away from him - why

[SpanielsAreNuts]

My just turned 1yr old cocker, has started whining/crying if I walk away from him and he can't follow. For example I left my mom holding both of my dogs (on their leads), whilst I took my DC to the toilet. He whined from when I took the first few steps away right up until just before I came back round the corner.

I'd say separation anxiety but he isn't bothered when left at home either alone or with my other dog (when alone he will whine until I close the front door behind me, then he just goes on his bed and sleeps - I kind of assumed this was a can I come type whine).

I'm around a lot but pop out a few times a day (school runs, shopping, appointments, etc). So they aren't left long and have me around the majority of the time.

So why is he doing it and how do I stop him?

No tips, am placemarking for inspiration for my friend's dog who does the same and is a nightmare for the rest of us to deal with in her absence!

Was it a bit of a whine or was he really upset? Maybe he just wants to go with you. My dog will whine a bit and try to follow my daughter, if she runs off to play and I'm sitting somewhere with dog on a lead. She soon settles though, but it's like she thinks she's missing out!. You could practice walking off starting with short distances/times while the person holding the dog administers treats!

My cocker has had a few bumps along the way where he appears to not want to be left alone and he is now 20 months. I think at 1 year of age it's just part of him growing up and stamping his feet so to speak. I just ignored it and he went back to normal.

Tropic it isn't majorly distressed panic type cry but is more than just a little whine or grumble. Its hard to explain I think it's somewhere in between - it's a continuous whiney, wimpery, crying type noise, where he does seem quite upset but not majorly distressed.

Bitey I hope he does just stop again. Cockers do seem to use vocal communication a lot more than other breeds I know.