the tail shouldnt be a problem at all.my bitch has a full tail.the length of the working cockers docked tail isnt much different,you only take a bit off.they do get upto all kinds of mischieve if you let them,my bitch is a little thief but she knows she is in the wrong,still does it anyway,start from the beginning,walking with the lead and simple commands.hope it all works out,atvb