Although I've only had one cocker, my Tucker, because of having him I've heard a number of comments about the breed from my vets and groomers. Unsolicited, I'm told that he is *an exception* because he is so good while being examined or groomed.

Allergies and ear infections have plagued my boy for the last several years. He gets along well with other dogs as long as he is not intimidated by them. If he is off leash at a dog park he is fine. Meeting another dog while he is on a leash can be a bit dicey as he feels constrained. He did have serious separation anxiety when we first got him but then he had been a stray so who knows if that came from his previous experience. He adores his sister dog, Hannah, and is good with kids but even I am careful not to get him into a position which he feels backed into a corner. He loves to be close and is the dog who taught me how to sleep spoon fashion. He's not a barker and an ideal size - not too big, not too small. He has a high prey drive and that has resulted in a few unfortunate incidents with the bunnies who live in our yard. If I were ever attacked, I have no doubt that it would be Tucker who would come to my rescue.

All that said, every dog has their own personality. Maybe you might want to talk with people at a cocker rescue organization. There you would be able to find out about the personality of a specific dog and maybe find the perfect dog for your family to adopt.