English Cocker Spaniel vs Irish Wolfhound

Sporting · Medium vs Hound · Giant

Quick take
  • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 28–34 lbs for the English Cocker Spaniel.
  • The English Cocker Spaniel typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The English Cocker Spaniel has higher daily energy needs.

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish Cocker SpanielIrish Wolfhound
Group
SportingHound
Size
MediumGiant
Origin
EnglandIreland
Height (male)
16–17"32–34"
Height (female)
15–16"30–32"
Weight (male)
28–34 lbs120 lbs
Weight (female)
26–32 lbs105 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years6–8 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Low (2/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longwirehaired
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 Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is a courageous, dignified, calm gentle giant — the tallest of all dogs, ancient Celtic war and hunting hound. Originally from Ireland, this giant hound breed typically weighs 120 lbs and lives 6–8 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, dignified, calm.

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English Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Ear infections
  • Eye disorders

Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia