Hi there!
           Me and my family are thinking about getting a dog when my husband retires in 2 years. Yes i know its far away but i like to plan in advance! ;)
He shall be here all day, we have 2 kids aged 13 and 10 just now, no other pets, first time dog owners, a medium sized garden, would like a medium sized dog that is easily trained.
We were thinking on a cocker spaniel? Can anyone suggest us on a breed?
Thank you.
Katie

Well done for being so organised! Can you get to Discover Dogs in December at Earl's Court or at Crufts at the NEC in March? You'll see nearly every breed of dog there & be able to talk to experienced owners/breeders.
http://www.the-kennel-club.org.uk/

Hi katie  id go for a show type cocker i have one and getting another need i say more :D   if you join and pm me i will show you some stunning cockers :P http://www.thecockerspanielclub.co.uk/breedclubs.htm if you decide on getting one look at the colour and marking section of the website just so you know what colours the breeders are talking about if you ring up goodluck

I have Staffordshire Bull terriers and they are excellent family dogs. They need lots of time and energy as they are very boisterous and may be a bit much if its your first ever dog, but they are quite low maintenance with regard to coat care, shedding etc. The Kennel club lists the SBT as one of only two breeds as 'good with children' and they are known as the 'Nanny dog', because they are so loving and attentive to our human children. I agree that you should go to some shows and meet lots of dogs from as many breeds as possible to help you make up your mind, and decide what type of dog will fit into your family needs. Always make sure that you buy your puppy from a reputable breeder and that parents are KC registered and have undergone the necessary health checks, to ensure that your puppy is a healthy as possible. Ask to see the mother of the litter and check that both parents have a good temprement. It is good that you are organised and preparing for your puppy early on, you will hopefully have him in your life for many years and its important to make the right choices!
Good luck in your search :)
Kerrie

While almost everyone on here would recommend the breed/s they own, the best thing you can do is find out as much as possible about all the different breeds.  You could start by making a list of your initial likes/needs/dislikes - eg. long/short hair, big/small size, slobber/ no slobber, how much walking, activity level, calm/boisterous, grooming etc.  This will help you make an informed choice as to the right breed for you and your family.   If you can get to Discover Dogs this will help enormously as some breeds appear quite small in photos and quite a shock in the flesh ( eg. Glen of Imal Terriers :D ) and some breeds need more walking than their size indicates (the reverse can also be true ;) )

Hope this helps :)
regards
Dill