English Cocker Spaniel vs Poodle (Standard)

Sporting · Medium vs Non-Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Poodle (Standard) is the larger breed at 60–70 lbs (males) vs 28–34 lbs for the English Cocker Spaniel.
  • The Poodle (Standard) typically lives longer (10–18 years).
  • The Poodle (Standard) sheds less.
  • The Poodle (Standard) is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish Cocker SpanielPoodle (Standard)
Group
SportingNon-Sporting
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
EnglandGermany
Height (male)
16–17"18–24"
Height (female)
15–16"18–24"
Weight (male)
28–34 lbs60–70 lbs
Weight (female)
26–32 lbs40–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years10–18 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
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)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longlong
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 Poodle (Standard)

The Poodle (Standard) is an elegant, athletic, and exceptionally intelligent water dog — far more than its show-ring image suggests. Originally from Germany, this large non-sporting breed typically weighs 60–70 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as active, proud, very smart.

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English Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Ear infections
  • Eye disorders

Poodle (Standard) health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Addison's disease
  • Eye disorders