Dalmatian vs English Cocker Spaniel

Non-Sporting · Medium vs Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Dalmatian is the larger breed at 45–70 lbs (males) vs 28–34 lbs for the English Cocker Spaniel.
  • The English Cocker Spaniel typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Dalmatian has higher daily energy needs.
  • The English Cocker Spaniel sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitDalmatianEnglish Cocker Spaniel
Group
Non-SportingSporting
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
CroatiaEngland
Height (male)
19–24"16–17"
Height (female)
19–24"15–16"
Weight (male)
45–70 lbs28–34 lbs
Weight (female)
45–70 lbs26–32 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–13 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)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.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Dalmatian

The Dalmatian is a dignified, smart, outgoing spotted coach dog — 101 Dalmatians, original carriage and firehouse dog. Originally from Croatia, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–70 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as dignified, smart, outgoing.

About the English Cocker Spaniel

The English Cocker Spaniel is a merry, sturdy, friendly gundog — the original woodcock specialist, leggier than its American cousin. Originally from England, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 28–34 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as merry, sturdy, friendly.

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Dalmatian health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Deafness
  • Urinary stones
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Skin allergies

English Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Ear infections
  • Eye disorders