English Cocker Spaniel vs Jack Russell Terrier

Sporting · Medium vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • English Cocker Spaniel is the larger breed at 28–34 lbs (males) vs 13–17 lbs for the Jack Russell Terrier.
  • The Jack Russell Terrier typically lives longer (13–18 years).
  • The Jack Russell Terrier has higher daily energy needs.
  • The English Cocker Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish Cocker SpanielJack Russell Terrier
Group
SportingTerrier
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
EnglandEngland
Height (male)
16–17"10–15"
Height (female)
15–16"10–15"
Weight (male)
28–34 lbs13–17 lbs
Weight (female)
26–32 lbs13–17 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years13–18 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
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)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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 Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier is a fearless, vocal, athletic small fox terrier — Eddie from Frasier, ten pounds of pure energy. Originally from England, this small terrier breed typically weighs 13–17 lbs and lives 13–18 years. Breeders describe them as fearless, vocal, athletic.

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English Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Ear infections
  • Eye disorders

Jack Russell Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Eye disorders
  • Deafness