Cocker Spaniel vs Russell Terrier

Sporting · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Cocker Spaniel is the larger breed at 25–30 lbs (males) vs 9–15 lbs for the Russell Terrier.
  • The Russell Terrier typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Russell Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Cocker Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCocker SpanielRussell Terrier
Group
SportingTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
USAEngland
Height (male)
14.5–15.5"10–12"
Height (female)
13.5–14.5"10–12"
Weight (male)
25–30 lbs9–15 lbs
Weight (female)
20–25 lbs9–15 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years12–14 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)Very High (5/5)
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)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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 Russell Terrier

The Russell Terrier is a lively, alert, inquisitive English fox-bolter — shorter-legged cousin of Jack Russell, equally feisty. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 9–15 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as lively, alert, inquisitive.

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Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Russell Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Deafness