Cocker Spaniel vs Irish Setter
Sporting · Small vs Sporting · Large
Cocker SpanielSmall
A gentle, smart, happy gundog — Disney's Lady, with the gorgeous flowing coat and merry tail.
Weight: 25–30 lbsLifespan: 10–14 years
Irish SetterLarge
An active, outgoing, sweet-tempered gundog with a famous mahogany coat — exuberant and a little goofy.
Weight: 70 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Irish Setter is the larger breed at 70 lbs (males) vs 25–30 lbs for the Cocker Spaniel.
- • The Irish Setter typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Irish Setter has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Cocker Spaniel is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Cocker Spaniel | Irish Setter |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Sporting |
Size | Small | Large |
Origin | USA | Ireland |
Height (male) | 14.5–15.5" | 27" |
Height (female) | 13.5–14.5" | 25" |
Weight (male) | 25–30 lbs | 70 lbs |
Weight (female) | 20–25 lbs | 60 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–14 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | Very High (5/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Low (2/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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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 Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is an active, outgoing, sweet-tempered gundog with a famous mahogany coat — exuberant and a little goofy. Originally from Ireland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 70 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as active, outgoing, sweet-tempered.
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Cocker Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Eye conditions
- • Ear infections
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart disease
Irish Setter health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Epilepsy
- • Eye disorders