Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.
The Brittany (14–18 kg, 12–14 years) and the Cocker Spaniel (12–15 kg, 12–15 years) sit in different — or sometimes overlapping — corners of dog ownership. Here's how they really compare for an everyday Irish or UK family.
Both breeds have similar energy demands — Brittany tips slightly higher but neither is a couch dog.
Both have manageable grooming routines — the Cocker Spaniel demands slightly more, but neither needs daily fuss.
Insurance premiums for breeds with brachycephalic, joint or cancer predispositions run 20–40% above average — check before you commit. We have a free quote calculator here.
| Brittany | Cocker Spaniel | |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Sporting | Sporting |
| Origin | France (Brittany region) | United Kingdom |
| Weight | 14–18 kg | 12–15 kg |
| Height | 44–52 cm | 36–43 cm |
| Lifespan | 12–14 years | 12–15 years |
| Energy level | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Good with kids | ||
| Good with other pets | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Watchdog instinct | ||
| Novice-owner OK |
Affectionate, sensitive, eager to please. Excellent with children + other dogs. Slightly soft — harsh training methods damage them. Strong prey drive for birds.
60–90 minutes daily of varied exercise. Loves running, swimming, fetch, scent work.
Medium-length flat or wavy coat with light feathering. Brush 2× weekly. Light shedder.
Generally healthy. Watch for: hip dysplasia, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, glaucoma.
Full Brittany profile →Cheerful, gentle, eager-to-please, devoted. Cockers can be sensitive — harsh training shuts them down. They're very people-oriented and dislike being alone. "Rage syndrome" was historically a problem in some lines (especially solid red); modern responsible breeding has largely eliminated it.
60–90 minutes of daily exercise plus mental work. Scent work is ideal. Off-lead in safe areas — Cockers love to retrieve.
Medium-long coat with heavy ear and leg feathering. Brush 3× weekly; ears need cleaning weekly (long, hairy ears = infection risk). Most pet owners get a "puppy clip" every 6–8 weeks.
Ear infections (very common). Eye conditions (cataracts, glaucoma, PRA). Hip dysplasia. Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia in some lines. Generally a robust breed otherwise.
Full Cocker Spaniel profile →Active families with kids, runners + hikers, sensitive trainers.
Active families with children, multi-pet homes, country / suburban owners.
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