English Cocker Spaniel vs French Bulldog

Sporting · Medium vs Non-Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • English Cocker Spaniel is the larger breed at 28–34 lbs (males) vs 20–28 lbs for the French Bulldog.
  • The English Cocker Spaniel typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The English Cocker Spaniel has higher daily energy needs.
  • The English Cocker Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish Cocker SpanielFrench Bulldog
Group
SportingNon-Sporting
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
EnglandFrance
Height (male)
16–17"11–13"
Height (female)
15–16"11–13"
Weight (male)
28–34 lbs20–28 lbs
Weight (female)
26–32 lbs16–24 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years10–12 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.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
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
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is a compact, muscular, bat-eared companion bred for city living and apartment life. Originally from France, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 20–28 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as adaptable, playful, smart.

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English Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Ear infections
  • Eye disorders

French Bulldog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Allergies
  • IVDD