Belgian Tervuren vs English Cocker Spaniel

Herding · Large vs Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Belgian Tervuren is the larger breed at 55–75 lbs (males) vs 28–34 lbs for the English Cocker Spaniel.
  • The Belgian Tervuren has higher daily energy needs.
  • The English Cocker Spaniel sheds less.
  • The Belgian Tervuren is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBelgian TervurenEnglish Cocker Spaniel
Group
HerdingSporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
BelgiumEngland
Height (male)
24–26"16–17"
Height (female)
22–24"15–16"
Weight (male)
55–75 lbs28–34 lbs
Weight (female)
45–60 lbs26–32 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)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
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Belgian Tervuren

The Belgian Tervuren is a courageous, smart, alert Belgian shepherd — long-haired cousin of the Malinois with rich mahogany coat. Originally from Belgium, this large herding breed typically weighs 55–75 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, smart, alert.

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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Belgian Tervuren health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Epilepsy
  • Eye disorders

English Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Ear infections
  • Eye disorders