English Springer Spaniel vs Golden Retriever

Sporting · Medium vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Golden Retriever is the larger breed at 65–75 lbs (males) vs 50–55 lbs for the English Springer Spaniel.
  • The English Springer Spaniel typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Golden Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
  • The English Springer Spaniel sheds less.
  • The Golden Retriever is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish Springer SpanielGolden Retriever
Group
SportingSporting
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
EnglandScotland
Height (male)
19–21"23–24"
Height (female)
18–20"21.5–22.5"
Weight (male)
50–55 lbs65–75 lbs
Weight (female)
40–50 lbs55–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
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)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediummedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a friendly, playful, obedient gundog — bred to spring game from cover for the hunter's net or gun. Originally from England, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 50–55 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, playful, obedient.

About the Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat. Originally from Scotland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–75 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, intelligent, devoted.

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English Springer Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye conditions
  • Ear infections
  • Phosphofructokinase deficiency

Golden Retriever health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Cancer
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease
  • Skin conditions