Afghan Hound vs Cocker Spaniel

Hound · Large vs Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • Afghan Hound is the larger breed at 60 lbs (males) vs 25–30 lbs for the Cocker Spaniel.
  • The Afghan Hound typically lives longer (12–18 years).
  • The Afghan Hound sheds less.
  • The Cocker Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAfghan HoundCocker Spaniel
Group
HoundSporting
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
AfghanistanUSA
Height (male)
27"14.5–15.5"
Height (female)
25"13.5–14.5"
Weight (male)
60 lbs25–30 lbs
Weight (female)
50 lbs20–25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–18 years10–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is an aloof, dignified, ancient sighthound — the supermodel of the dog world with a flowing silken coat. Originally from Afghanistan, this large hound breed typically weighs 60 lbs and lives 12–18 years. Breeders describe them as aloof, dignified, independent.

About the Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel is a gentle, smart, happy gundog — Disney's Lady, with the gorgeous flowing coat and merry tail. Originally from USA, this small sporting breed typically weighs 25–30 lbs and lives 10–14 years. Breeders describe them as gentle, smart, happy.

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Afghan Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism

Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Eye conditions
  • Ear infections
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease