Cocker Spaniel vs Norfolk Terrier

Sporting · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Cocker Spaniel is the larger breed at 25–30 lbs (males) vs 11–12 lbs for the Norfolk Terrier.
  • The Norfolk Terrier typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Norfolk Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCocker SpanielNorfolk Terrier
Group
SportingTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
USAEngland
Height (male)
14.5–15.5"9–10"
Height (female)
13.5–14.5"9–10"
Weight (male)
25–30 lbs11–12 lbs
Weight (female)
20–25 lbs11–12 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)High (4/5)
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)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)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Norfolk Terrier

The Norfolk Terrier is a fearless, alert, gregarious drop-eared terrier — one of the smallest working terriers, fox-bolter. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 11–12 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as fearless, alert, gregarious.

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Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Norfolk Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye problems