Working cocker spaniel - first dog

[CircassianLeyla]

We have the opportunity of getting a puppy from a friend who's dog has just had puppies.

We have never had a dog before and have three DS aged 3, 6,8.

DS1 (8) is scared of dogs which seems to rule out a dog.
DS2 (6) dreams of having a dog and is extremely affectionate and I have absolutely no fear of him not looking after the dog. I know we all say that.
DS3 (3) knows the mother and loves her.
We have loads of outdoor space around where dogs can run free.

DH and I have jobs that mean we can be home a lot of the time. Possibly one day where we are both out but we can try and work around that.
We live in a flat - this is my biggest concern. We have a reasonably sized three bedroomed flat. We have a very suitable space for a dog, but also space for the dog to roam around (a little).

Selfish reasons:
Am I being over zealous in thinking the fact that the dog is a puppy that this could help DS1 overcome his fear?? We don't want to traumatise him or the dog.

DS2 is a loner and I really think a dog could help him.

These are not the sole reasons, i do think we could give the dog a good home but don't want to do anything that might not be right for all involved.

Apart from whether we should/shouldn't I would like some advice on if we do what we should consider.

I am going to have a coffee with my friend, the owner and go and see them so will pick her brains and if we are not suitable then she won't let us have one anyway.

I think you are making the right decision in waiting.

We have a working cocker. She is a great natured dog especially around children but she is very jumpy, infact I dont think she will ever stop jumping up at people

pulls like mad on the lead, chases birds constantly and burries odd socks and things in the garden.

She loves going out for walks but will happily sit in her box too thankfully

If I lived in a flat I am by how I would let her out for a wee which is a regular occurrance obviously.

Outside is 20 secs away for us so not an issue but I do still have concerns about being in a flat and obviously need DS1 to be on board fully before we commit to anything. My friend with the puppies has encouraged us to visit but said the same as previous posters and has offered to help us think further about it,

Really think you have made the right decision :)

Viva - good to see you back. hope everything is working out.

Thanks, things do seem a bit better. Two steps forward and a step back.