Hi there, is there a difference between field cocker spaniels and show cocker spaniels? Are the differences in looks or temperament,or both? If there is could you tell me the differences please? Also, would you recommend an English Cocker Spaniel for a first time dog owner? Thanks in advance.
Eunice Whale.

Hi, the short answer to your question is yes!  The long answer goes like this: there are differences in appearance and to a certain degree 'temperament', the main being in appearance.  The correct term for the dogs are working cockers and show cockers, I have both and I love them all! :D  Working cockers differ from show cockers in that they have a less domed head, a more pointed face, thinner ears, and have a much more muscular appearance in the body.  They also appear "longer" in the body than my show ones.  The coats in working cockers is also different to that of the show type, they grow less quickly, are more waterproof (remember cockers love water and will swim at any opportunity!) and need less grooming than the show cockers.  Now with regards to temperament, I may suggest that as working cockers have been bred for being exactly that, working dogs, they are meant to be more "alert" and "on the ball" than the show type (as I say that, I look down at my feet to where a few of mine are snoring away and look anything less than alert! :D)  However, both types have a superb temperament and should be free from aggression.  Both make excellent family pets and are easy to train, the working cockers particularly enjoying retrieving and agility, although I find both types at their happiest when they are wagging their tails with one of their many toys in their mouths that they have brought you as a "present". :)  Both types have been bred as gundogs and will love nothing more than having a good opportunity to run around an pick up on lots of new smells.  I would definately recommend a cocker to a first time owner due to their size, temperament, lovely nature and love of the family (including other pets).  Just make sure you do plenty of research into the breed before you make the decision, as a dog of any breed is a big commitment, and a cocker spaniel can live anywhere from 9-15 years, the average being 13 or 14. 

Sorry for going on, but as you can tell from my name, I'm a big spaniel fan!  Good luck with whatever you decide! :)

Do you mean working stock cocker spaniels? there is such a thing as a field spaniel which is why I ask. Working cockers are very different to show cockers, in fact most people who have working cockers would like them recognised as a seperate part of the cocker breed to avoid confusion. Somebody once described a working cocker as a springer on speed, they are pure balls of energy and if not stimulated they will get up to ALOT of mischief, they are not for first time dog owners unless you want to do alot of training and have a very active life.
A show strain cocker is generally quieter, but still full of fun and mischief, they are a good dog for a first time owner who is prepared and has done their research. Make sure you go to a good breeder who will always be your back up should you need advice, don't just answer a free ad. Why not check out www.cockersonline.co.uk for info, also if you still want to know more about working cockers check out http://www.felsteadgundogs.co.uk/ for loads of info.
Good Luck whatever you decide