I think I want to get a dog specifically to train to fetch dove. I don't want a big dog. I think a cocker would work great. What do you think?

A field bred cocker can make a spirited and capable companion and retriever. He is not bred to simply sit with you and wait, but is quite smart and is willing to learn patience as part of obedience training. Especially when he thinks it will result in a bird to bring to you! I say, go for it.

Thanks Pointer. I trained pointers my whole life up until the late 90's and competed in field trials. I suspected field cockers would be a little hyper. The only commands I think he/she will need are heel, sit, stay/whoa, lay down, come and fetch. Also taught to hunt dead. Am I on the right track here?

Try a jack russell!

Field cockers can be good little dove dogs. You will need to teach "sit", "here", "heel" and "fetch". I wouldn't worry about "stay", when you tell the dog to "sit" stay is implied until released. It will take a little while to build up that kind of patience but it can be done. Check out Boykin Spaniels as well, they are great little retrievers, best of all the spaniel breeds IMO.

Thanks Huck18. I will