English Cocker Spaniel vs Miniature Schnauzer

Sporting · Medium vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • English Cocker Spaniel is the larger breed at 28–34 lbs (males) vs 11–20 lbs for the Miniature Schnauzer.
  • The Miniature Schnauzer typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Miniature Schnauzer sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish Cocker SpanielMiniature Schnauzer
Group
SportingTerrier
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
EnglandGermany
Height (male)
16–17"12–14"
Height (female)
15–16"12–14"
Weight (male)
28–34 lbs11–20 lbs
Weight (female)
26–32 lbs11–20 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)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.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
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)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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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 Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is a friendly, smart, obedient ratter — the eyebrowed, bearded German farm dog scaled down for family life. Originally from Germany, this small terrier breed typically weighs 11–20 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, smart, obedient.

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English Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Ear infections
  • Eye disorders

Miniature Schnauzer health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Pancreatitis
  • Diabetes
  • Bladder stones
  • Cataracts