Cocker Spaniel vs Dachshund

Sporting · Small vs Hound · Small

Quick take
  • Cocker Spaniel is the larger breed at 25–30 lbs (males) vs 16–32 lbs for the Dachshund.
  • The Dachshund typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Cocker Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCocker SpanielDachshund
Group
SportingHound
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
USAGermany
Height (male)
14.5–15.5"8–9"
Height (female)
13.5–14.5"8–9"
Weight (male)
25–30 lbs16–32 lbs
Weight (female)
20–25 lbs16–32 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years12–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the Dachshund

The Dachshund is a spirited, clever, courageous badger-hunter on stubby legs — the iconic 'wiener dog'. Originally from Germany, this small hound breed typically weighs 16–32 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as spunky, curious, friendly.

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Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Dachshund health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • IVDD (back problems)
  • Obesity
  • Patellar luxation
  • Diabetes