Cockerspaniel issues

Question
I am a long time dog owner and dog lover.  I have always had yorkies, bichons, or maltese.  Recently my close friend bought a pretty black cockerspaniel 1 year ago.  I have known him since he was a pup and he is a very sweet dog.  In the past six months or so the dog will also snap at myself as well as many other non family members quite often.  He will leap at you and put your arm or hand in his mouth but usually not bite down.  he does this at all different times, one time i was scratching his belly, which he usually loves, one time i was hugging his owner hello, he also did this with a ten month old baby that was playing on the floor.  I was thinking of getting a cockerspaniel but becasue of this I am not sure what to do.  Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Answer
Your friend's cocker needs a trainer NOW!

However, if this "display" had been handled firmly and correctly the very first time or so it happened it would be history now.  I do hope they'll get on it.

As far as being hesitant about getting a cocker yourself - any dog of any breed needs training and correction.  But don't judge all cockers by one who's misbehaving and NOT being corrected.
Delores