Cocker Spaniel vs Shih Tzu
Sporting · Small vs Toy · Small
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
Shih TzuSmall
An affectionate, playful, outgoing lapdog of Chinese imperial origins — happy as long as it's near you.
Weight: 9–16 lbsLifespan: 10–18 years
Quick take
- • Cocker Spaniel is the larger breed at 25–30 lbs (males) vs 9–16 lbs for the Shih Tzu.
- • The Shih Tzu typically lives longer (10–18 years).
- • The Cocker Spaniel has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Shih Tzu sheds less.
- • The Cocker Spaniel is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Cocker Spaniel | Shih Tzu |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Toy |
Size | Small | Small |
Origin | USA | Tibet |
Height (male) | 14.5–15.5" | 9–10.5" |
Height (female) | 13.5–14.5" | 9–10.5" |
Weight (male) | 25–30 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Weight (female) | 20–25 lbs | 9–16 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–14 years | 10–18 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Coat length | long | long |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | Yes |
Ad slot · compare-mid
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 Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is an affectionate, playful, outgoing lapdog of Chinese imperial origins — happy as long as it's near you. Originally from Tibet, this small toy breed typically weighs 9–16 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, playful, outgoing.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Cocker Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Eye conditions
- • Ear infections
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart disease
Shih Tzu health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Brachycephalic syndrome
- • Eye problems
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Dental issues