English Springer Spaniel vs Skye Terrier

Sporting · Medium vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • English Springer Spaniel is the larger breed at 50–55 lbs (males) vs 35–45 lbs for the Skye Terrier.
  • The English Springer Spaniel has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Skye Terrier sheds less.
  • The English Springer Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish Springer SpanielSkye Terrier
Group
SportingTerrier
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
EnglandScotland
Height (male)
19–21"10"
Height (female)
18–20"9.5"
Weight (male)
50–55 lbs35–45 lbs
Weight (female)
40–50 lbs25–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)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)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
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 Skye Terrier

The Skye Terrier is a courageous, canny, fearless Scottish island terrier — once Queen Victoria's favorite, now rare. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 35–45 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, canny, fearless.

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English Springer Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

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

Skye Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hyperthyroidism