I like Cockers and own 2. I also like Boykins. I don't think you would go wrong with either. I would not sell either cocker I own. Last year was Buster's first year in the dove field. Never lost a bird and neither did any of the hunters in our group. Best dead bird dog I have ever owned in 47 years of hunting.
Buster is 2 years old now. Sits, Stays, looks where I direct him by hand Stops and sits when my hand goes up and waits for direction by hand signal. Very soft mouthed and retrieves to hand and gives upon on request.
Missy is almost 7 months old now. She sits stays and is in training to stop when my hand goes up and sits and waits for direction. She may be picking this all up faster than Buster did. Time will tell.
Both were pretty natural retrievers as puppies.
Missy:
Buster retrieving a dead dove: