Ok, I had set my mind on a working cocker pup this summer, but we always had springers in the past (I now have 3 show type cockers), OH keeps saying how easy the springers were to train compared to the wilful cockers I now own! Is there really that much difference in personality between the wc and ess? I'm all for an easy life and if there really is that much difference then I would be happy to look at a springer pup as I do like both breeds. As I have never done any form of gundog training before, I want to maximise my chance of success.
As with any breed, the standered of breeding will have a good part to play with both breeds you ask about. Yes as two different types of spaniel they do have different types of personality, but I wouldnt say one was harder than the other, its just one may suit your training more.
I think you need to look more for the specific dog and not breed. Each dog is an individual, look for one that is very focused on you whether it's a cocker or a springer.
"If you train a young dog for momentum, precision will arrive. If you train for precision, demanding perfection, momentum will depart." - Rex Carr
Cass wrote:I think you need to look more for the specific dog and not breed. Each dog is an individual, look for one that is very focused on you whether it's a cocker or a springer.
It's up to you to make them focused on you
Neither breed are 'easy' to train but the more the breeding leans towards trialing the more experience you will require.
Make sure they come from good working stock with plenty of FTCH in their generation and that will help with your gundog training which ever breed you choose.
I am a springer mine myself and getting a new pup in June however have started to like some Cockers I've seen in shoots.
If you check the for sale board on here I have some ESS for sale from good working stock, FTCH and good price
Is there really that much difference in personality between the wc and ess? I'm all for an easy life and if there really is that much difference then I would be happy to look at a springer pup as I do like both breeds. As I have never done any form of gundog training before, I want to maximise my chance of success. 
