I have had Springer Spaniels all my live they are great family dogs they will watch all members of the family. Our current dog Merlin has differnet times that he has duties (his choice) for each person. The top is to watch the boy (teen) and mom. Dad can take care of himself. They are sturdy and large enough to wrestle around, but small enough to keep in apartments. We have had large breeds as well newfys and st.bernards they just don't realize how big they are.As with cockers at this time too many peolpe are breeding springers so learn about the breeders in the area and talk to several check with many vets , humane socity if they have had run ins with any of the animals from the breeders . If you chose one from a shelter visit several times and spend lots of time and take it for walks out around the grounds ( advice for all animals) With children it's important to know the most you can about the animal your bringing in. Sorry to those who think animals are moe inportant than kids, but I am not one my children always come before my furkids . I also am one who is careful about what I bring in, If it doesn't seem to be a SAFE animal the kids are not allowed in that area of our home til I think it is or till the animal is placed. I have reabilitated dogs so they are family orented and placed. I received them aboused and very nasty out of the 12 I have worked with only one was not able to be placed safly and I felt he would not adjust to any one and I had to have him put down & year old chow male gotten and just turned loose in a yard and food thrown over the fence once a week. I felt so devistaed after 2 years of working on him he still would not change toward any one I was the only one he didn't bite 'but I didn't allow myself to be in a postion to get bit.
I have had to take in lots of "cute" shelter dogs who had bad habits to break or people didn't take the time to spend more than one trip to the shelter.Sorry folks my pet peeve One trip to shelter and not getting the full story on an animail worked a avets office too long putting down to many sweet faces just becouse people are not informed. Glad for this form and people checking it to become informed. Off my soap box now Good luck finding the perfect family companion for the kids . One last thought it will be a family pet cuz it should be around after kids are grown if the right care and health given and a breed with a medium range life expectancy. Ok done now Corinna