We started our Cocker experience with the Show type, and over the yeas I had had 3. All 3 of our Show type Cockers would come beating with us, they worked as a Cocker Spaniel should although I don't remember if they Quartered the ground but they did hunt and flush without "running in", they would always retrieve if they found a dead bird (they were never sent to retrieve a shot bird though !) They would retrieve from water and would work a full day without any problems. The biggest problem that we had was snow, it would form huge snow balls around their legs and restricted them getting about.
We now have the Working Type that we discovered in 1985 and have never had a Show Type since, ( no reason other than they were more practical for the shooting world that we still enjoy) . Their temperaments are fantastic, they love cuddles and fit into a family life with us without any issues. The Working type do have more speed but the show type are slower and steadier when working. We
never cage our dogs, they are also free walked without leads on.
They stay close with us as we request, and they are great company too. We do no pavement or road work with them, there is no need. Cuddles as with the show type are a must and we have found the temperaments with both types are lovely.
I have nothing against the show type but the working ones are better suited for our lifestyle.
I think that the show Type are no longer fit for purpose with the beautiful long ears and heavy coats that so many have around their lower parts. The workers are not interfered with to look "just so" for the show bench are a much more practical design.
Working type or show type, they are what we make of them