golden retriever behavior

Question
I have a 4 1/2 year old Golden retriever and a 2 year old cocker spaniel.  They have been the best of friends for the past almost 2 years.  All of a sudden today, the golden tries mounting the cocker constantly.  I have never hit my dogs but i can't take the golden doing this.  I have sprayed him with a water bottle every time he does it, but it doesn't matter.  I have tried a rolled up newspaper, but that doesn't work.  I'm afraid to leave them alone together after tonight because i'm afraid the golden will hurt the cocker.  They are both males.


Answer
The cocker Spaniel could be maturing and starting to challenge the Golden for leadership.  The Golden has been top dog for a long time and is showing him he intends to continue as top dog.  One of the things you need to do is let both them know you are top dog.  The key to most behavior problems is approaching things using the dog's natural instincts.  Dogs see all the people and dogs in the household as a pack with each having their own rank in the pack and a top dog.  Life is much easier if the 2 legged pack members outrank the 4 legged ones.  You can learn to play the role of top dog by reading some books or going to a good obedience class. A good obedience class or book is about you being top dog, not about rewarding standard commands with a treat. Start at http://www.dogsbestfriend.com/  For more on being top dog, see http://www.dogbreedinfo.com./topdogrules.htm

If they are not neutered, do so.  It is no cure all, but goes a long ways to reduce such challenges.  

The newspaper seldom works.  Try giving him an ''Ut, ut, ut!'' and distracting him with a chew toy.