English Cocker Spaniel vs Labrador Retriever
Sporting · Medium vs Sporting · Large
English Cocker SpanielMedium
A merry, sturdy, friendly gundog — the original woodcock specialist, leggier than its American cousin.
Weight: 28–34 lbsLifespan: 12–14 years
Labrador RetrieverLarge
America's most popular dog — a friendly, outgoing, athletic retriever bred to fetch waterfowl.
Weight: 65–80 lbsLifespan: 11–13 years
Quick take
- • Labrador Retriever is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 28–34 lbs for the English Cocker Spaniel.
- • The English Cocker Spaniel typically lives longer (12–14 years).
- • The Labrador Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
- • The English Cocker Spaniel sheds less.
- • The Labrador Retriever is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | English Cocker Spaniel | Labrador Retriever |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Sporting |
Size | Medium | Large |
Origin | England | Canada |
Height (male) | 16–17" | 22.5–24.5" |
Height (female) | 15–16" | 21.5–23.5" |
Weight (male) | 28–34 lbs | 65–80 lbs |
Weight (female) | 26–32 lbs | 55–70 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–14 years | 11–13 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
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) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Coat length | long | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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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 Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is america's most popular dog — a friendly, outgoing, athletic retriever bred to fetch waterfowl. Originally from Canada, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–80 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, active, outgoing, even-tempered.
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English Cocker Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Ear infections
- • Eye disorders
Labrador Retriever health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Elbow dysplasia
- • Obesity
- • Progressive retinal atrophy