Hi,
I can also only speak from my own show type cocker who very rarely barks unless there‘s a cat or something else in the garden. None of my previous dogs ever barked either (GSD and GSD Mix) but none of them have ever been really been exposed to other barky dogs and I do think sometimes it can be learned habit which could be controlled with training. As cockers go, mine is fairly laid back anyway, the breeder‘s priority was temperament rather than looks and I do think that plays a major role.
Pro‘s and cons? Well I‘ve just spent the last hour trying to get all the velcro seeds (no idea what the proper name is,) out of his ears, feet and undercarriage!
- they definately are quite high maintainance in that respective, a groomer in the family is a huge plus but you‘ll still need to brush/comb etc at least every couple of days, not forgetting rinsing muddy feet after every walk in the winter! I don’t find that a chore, but we‘re retired now so time isn‘t an issue, I‘ve invested in some decent tools and groom him myself.
Cockers have loads of enthusiasm and are very eager to learn but as already mentioned, they can be infuriatingly stubborn at times and do need a degree of consistent, positive training. They just ooze with happiness, want to be included in everything, will follow you to the moon and back (including all the loo stops
) but are also adaptable, if you just want a lazy Sunday on the couch, they‘ll be happy with that as well. They’re cheeky, happy, fun loving, and have a sense of humour ,
The last Pro is ofcourse that we have a wonderful forum here just devoted to cockers, so if you do decide to go for one, then you‘ll get lots of support from COL!