I am not trying to stir anything here. Just a thought that came in to my mind..Cockers and Min Pins are two totally different breeds hence they have different sets of attitude. In general (I am not saying all just in general) most Cockers are submissive and people-orientated but most Min Pins are in general bossy and loves to bark and are very sensitive to little noises and will spark them off barking. If a treat can keep him quiet, why not?
If he is overweight, make him run more and peace to all.