The last week sprocket has growled/snarled 3 times. Once when being smoothed in his bed by my SIL. Once when my partner was smoothing him and once when my partner tried to get him off the bed.
On all occasions they walked away from him and he was happy to follow and wanted attention then.
Ive only owned one dog before sprocket, who never once growled at anyone or anything, so this behavior has worried me. I've been told by family not to worry and its normal. I personally don't see this as normal and it's not something i feel comfortable with.
For those who don't know, sprockets a 17 month old springer x cocker. He is neutered and has been to the vets lately and theres nothing medically wrong that would cause the above.
How should i or other family members react to his growling? I don't want to encourage it if possible.
Has anyone experienced anything similar and what were your dogs reasons? At the moment i can't see any reason for him to act this way, he's not scared of my partner or SIL and is usually extremely friendly.
Any input would be great

WRONG SECTION OF FOURM.
sorry! think i had a blonde moment