English Cocker Spaniel vs Toy Poodle

Sporting · Medium vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • English Cocker Spaniel is the larger breed at 28–34 lbs (males) vs 4–6 lbs for the Toy Poodle.
  • The Toy Poodle typically lives longer (10–18 years).
  • The Toy Poodle sheds less.
  • The Toy Poodle is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish Cocker SpanielToy Poodle
Group
SportingToy
Size
MediumToy
Origin
EnglandGermany
Height (male)
16–17"9–10"
Height (female)
15–16"9–10"
Weight (male)
28–34 lbs4–6 lbs
Weight (female)
26–32 lbs4–6 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)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)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)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
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 Toy Poodle

The Toy Poodle is an active, intelligent, lively toy version of the Poodle — apartment-friendly hypoallergenic charmer. Originally from Germany, this toy toy breed typically weighs 4–6 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as active, intelligent, lively.

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English Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Ear infections
  • Eye disorders

Toy Poodle health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Eye disorders
  • Dental issues