English Cocker Spaniel vs Pug

Sporting · Medium vs Toy · Small

Quick take
  • English Cocker Spaniel is the larger breed at 28–34 lbs (males) vs 14–18 lbs for the Pug.
  • The Pug typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The English Cocker Spaniel has higher daily energy needs.
  • The English Cocker Spaniel sheds less.
  • The English Cocker Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish Cocker SpanielPug
Group
SportingToy
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
EnglandChina
Height (male)
16–17"10–13"
Height (female)
15–16"10–13"
Weight (male)
28–34 lbs14–18 lbs
Weight (female)
26–32 lbs14–18 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years13–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
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 Pug

The Pug is a charming, mischievous, loving wrinkly clown — Chinese imperial lapdog motto: multum in parvo. Originally from China, this small toy breed typically weighs 14–18 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as charming, mischievous, loving.

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English Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Ear infections
  • Eye disorders

Pug health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Obesity