Originally posted by spunkadelic
Correct me if I'm wrong, you both said that your cockers were an "exception" to the rules. I've been to at least 25 websites dealing with cockers and they are all saying that it is a happy , go get 'em type of dog. Even the rescue groups.
I completely agree that (in general) they are happy dogs. I'm basing my opinion of my cocker being an exception on the grounds that several owners I've talked to said their dogs were hyper, "pee-ers," and (some even) nippy. Granted, some of these owners might not have taken the time to socialize the dogs. I've also talked to groomers and vets who were quite frazzled with the breed's behaviour. (Again, consider that the groomer/vet's probably isn't the most exciting place for a dog to be! lol) Based on that conversational knowledge, I label my dog an exception.

I think you hit the nail on the head when you mentioned overbreeding. To me, this is what makes the "bad" cocker spaniel. (Well, that plus the owners who aren't willing to train/socialize the dog.)



You lost me here:
All I really wanted to know was just basically a generalized statement about the breed and you guys gave that to me and I appreciate it. ... people are always telling me "You have to make sure it's right for you", "they can be a handfull, are you willing to train it?" etc. etc. These are all good questions, ones that I've been asking myself, and ones that I asked here - but ones I don't really think were answered.
I honestly don't know what you're asking. The questions in your first post are pretty common sense - everything varies because of the individual dog's personality and how much time you're willing to put into the dog. They can make good inside/apartment dogs provided they get enough outside romp/walk time. If s/he's dirty or shaggy looking, take a trip to the groomers. (I'm really not trying to be a smart alec, but it varies dog to dog. There isn't a set way.)

I addressed my personal experiences regarding number seven in my earlier post. As for number eight, my cocker never hunted a day in her life and I think she lived a long, happy life. (Firecrackers used to scare her to pieces - can't imagine what she'd do if she heard a gunshot.) My cocker was an awesome watch dog, letting us know when someone was coming. I only saw her "attack" twice. Once, someone was trying to break into the house and she went bezerk trying to get after them. The second time, (I was maybe 9 then) a friend was play shaking me by the shoulders. ButterScotch growled once and then put her paws on the other kid as if to say, "TIME OUT!"

As for your last comment ("These are all good questions, ones that I've been asking myself, and ones that I asked here - but ones I don't really think were answered"), I'm unclear what it is you want answered. Are you wanting us to tell you whether it is a good dog for you? That decision is entirely up to you. It sounds like you've done your "homework" and have pretty much made up your mind!

Good luck with your decision!