Australian Terrier vs English Cocker Spaniel

Terrier · Small vs Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • English Cocker Spaniel is the larger breed at 28–34 lbs (males) vs 15–20 lbs for the Australian Terrier.
  • The Australian Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian TerrierEnglish Cocker Spaniel
Group
TerrierSporting
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
AustraliaEngland
Height (male)
10–11"16–17"
Height (female)
10–11"15–16"
Weight (male)
15–20 lbs28–34 lbs
Weight (female)
15–20 lbs26–32 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–15 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Australian Terrier

The Australian Terrier is a spirited, alert, courageous Australian outback ratter — the first breed developed Down Under. Originally from Australia, this small terrier breed typically weighs 15–20 lbs and lives 11–15 years. Breeders describe them as spirited, alert, courageous.

About the English Cocker Spaniel

The English Cocker Spaniel is a merry, sturdy, friendly gundog — the original woodcock specialist, leggier than its American cousin. Originally from England, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 28–34 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as merry, sturdy, friendly.

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Australian Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Diabetes
  • Allergies

English Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Ear infections
  • Eye disorders