English Cocker Spaniel vs Rhodesian Ridgeback

Sporting · Medium vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Rhodesian Ridgeback is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 28–34 lbs for the English Cocker Spaniel.
  • The English Cocker Spaniel typically lives longer (12–14 years).

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish Cocker SpanielRhodesian Ridgeback
Group
SportingHound
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
EnglandZimbabwe
Height (male)
16–17"25–27"
Height (female)
15–16"24–26"
Weight (male)
28–34 lbs85 lbs
Weight (female)
26–32 lbs70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years10–12 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)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
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 Rhodesian Ridgeback

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an affectionate, dignified, even-tempered African lion-hunter with a backward ridge of fur down its spine. Originally from Zimbabwe, this large hound breed typically weighs 85 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, dignified, even-tempered.

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English Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Ear infections
  • Eye disorders

Rhodesian Ridgeback health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Dermoid sinus
  • Bloat