Cocker Spaniel vs Smooth Fox Terrier

Sporting · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Cocker Spaniel is the larger breed at 25–30 lbs (males) vs 17–19 lbs for the Smooth Fox Terrier.
  • The Smooth Fox Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Smooth Fox Terrier has higher daily energy needs.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCocker SpanielSmooth Fox Terrier
Group
SportingTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
USAEngland
Height (male)
14.5–15.5"15"
Height (female)
13.5–14.5"15"
Weight (male)
25–30 lbs17–19 lbs
Weight (female)
20–25 lbs15–17 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
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)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)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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 Smooth Fox Terrier

The Smooth Fox Terrier is a friendly, independent, amusing English fox-bolter — sleek smooth-coated cousin of Wire Fox. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 17–19 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, independent, amusing.

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Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Smooth Fox Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Deafness