Cocker Spaniel vs Irish Terrier
Sporting · Small vs Terrier · Medium
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 TerrierMedium
A bold, dashing, tenderhearted Irish 'daredevil' — fiery red-coated farm dog and WWI message-runner.
Weight: 27 lbsLifespan: 13–15 years
Quick take
- • Irish Terrier is the larger breed at 27 lbs (males) vs 25–30 lbs for the Cocker Spaniel.
- • The Irish Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
- • The Irish Terrier sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Cocker Spaniel | Irish Terrier |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Terrier |
Size | Small | Medium |
Origin | USA | Ireland |
Height (male) | 14.5–15.5" | 18" |
Height (female) | 13.5–14.5" | 18" |
Weight (male) | 25–30 lbs | 27 lbs |
Weight (female) | 20–25 lbs | 25 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–14 years | 13–15 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. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | wirehaired |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
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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 Terrier
The Irish Terrier is a bold, dashing, tenderhearted Irish 'daredevil' — fiery red-coated farm dog and WWI message-runner. Originally from Ireland, this medium terrier breed typically weighs 27 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as bold, dashing, tenderhearted.
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Cocker Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Eye conditions
- • Ear infections
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart disease
Irish Terrier health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Hyperkeratosis
- • Eye disorders