English Springer Spaniel vs Cocker Spaniel

They were literally the same dog until the early 1900s. For centuries, spaniel litters were sorted by size: the bigger puppies became “springing” spaniels (flushing game from cover), and the smaller ones became “cocking” spaniels (hunting woodcock). Today, the English Springer Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel are officially separate breeds — but they still share the same DNA, the same soft mouth, the same floppy ears, and the same talent for looking at you with liquid brown eyes until you hand over your dinner. They are not, however, the same dog. The Springer is bigger, more athletic, and needs serious exercise. The Cocker is smaller, more adaptable, and slightly higher-maintenance in the grooming department. Here’s how to choose between them.

What You’ll Learn

  • Breed traits & temperament
  • Health concerns to know
  • True cost in Australia
  • Training & exercise needs
  • Is this breed right for you?

Breed Quick Facts Table

TraitEnglish Springer SpanielEnglish Cocker Spaniel
OriginEngland (1800s, formally separated 1902)England (1800s, formally separated 1892)
Original PurposeFlushing & retrieving upland gameFlushing woodcock & small game
ANKC GroupGroup 3 — GundogsGroup 3 — Gundogs
Height46–51 cm (18–20 in)38–41 cm (15–17 in)
Weight18–25 kg (40–50 lb)12–16 kg (25–35 lb)
Lifespan10–14 years12–15 years
Coat TypeDouble coat, medium length, wavy, water-resistantDouble coat, silky, longer feathering, wavy/curly
SheddingModerate — year-round, heavier seasonallyModerate — year-round, heavier seasonally
HypoallergenicNoNo
Energy LevelHigh — Very HighModerate — High
TrainabilityHigh — eager to please, biddableHigh — eager to please, can be softer
Barking LevelModerateModerate — can be vocal if anxious
Good With KidsExcellent — one of the best family gun dogsExcellent — gentle, patient
Apartment FriendlyNo — needs space and a yardPossible — with sufficient daily exercise
Puppy Price (AUD)$1,500 – $3,500$3,000 – $6,000
Availability in AustraliaGood — ANKC breeders in most statesVery good — high demand, more breeders
English Springer Spaniel And Cocker Spaniel Standing Outside

Both breeds trace back to the same ancestral “land spaniels” that were used in England and Spain for centuries to flush game birds from undergrowth. Until the late 1800s, Springers and Cockers weren’t recognised as separate breeds — they came from the same litters. The larger dogs that “sprang” game out of cover were called Springer Spaniels, while the smaller dogs that specialised in hunting woodcock (a small, ground-dwelling bird) were called Cocker Spaniels. The kennel clubs formalised the split: the English Cocker Spaniel was recognised by The Kennel Club (UK) in 1892, and the English Springer Spaniel followed in 1902.

This shared history matters because it explains why these breeds are so similar in temperament but genuinely different in size and energy. They diverged for practical, functional reasons — the Springer needed to cover more ground in rougher terrain, so it was bred larger and more athletic. The Cocker needed to work dense undergrowth at closer range, so it stayed compact and manoeuvrable.

Both breeds now exist in two distinct types — show (or “bench”) lines and working (or “field”) lines — and the difference within each breed is often bigger than the difference between breeds. A working-line Springer is a lean, intense, high-drive athlete. A show-line Springer is a heavier, calmer, more moderate dog. A working-line Cocker is a compact, tireless ball of energy with a shorter coat. A show-line Cocker is a plush, gorgeous, more laid-back companion with a longer, more glamorous coat.

When comparing these breeds, know which type you’re actually considering. Most family pet buyers in Australia are purchasing show-line dogs from ANKC-registered breeders, and this guide is written primarily for that audience. If you’re buying from a field-trial or hunting breeder, expect significantly higher energy and drive in both breeds.

If you’ve ever mistaken one for the other, you’re not alone. Both have long, floppy ears, soft wavy coats, and the signature spaniel face. But the differences are clear once you know where to look.

The English Springer Spaniel is the bigger, more athletic dog. At 46–51 cm tall and 18–25 kg, they’re a proper medium-sized gun dog with a longer body, longer legs, and a more square-proportioned build. Their coat is medium-length and wavy with feathering on the ears, chest, legs, and belly, but it’s coarser and more water-resistant than the Cocker’s. Their head is flatter on top with a longer muzzle, and their ears, while floppy, are set higher and shorter than a Cocker’s.

The English Cocker Spaniel is the smaller, rounder, more compact dog. At 38–41 cm and 12–16 kg, they’re noticeably smaller with a more domed skull, shorter muzzle, and larger, lower-set ears that hang well below the jawline. Their coat is longer, silkier, and fuller — especially on the ears, legs, and chest — giving them that characteristic glamorous, “frilly” look. They come in a wider range of colours, including solid colours, roans, and parti-colours.

Physical TraitEnglish Springer SpanielEnglish Cocker Spaniel
Height46–51 cm38–41 cm
Weight18–25 kg12–16 kg
Head ShapeFlatter skull, longer muzzleDomed skull, shorter muzzle
EarsSet higher, shorter, less pendulousSet lower, longer, very pendulous
Coat LengthMedium, wavy, moderate featheringLonger, silkier, heavier feathering
Coat TextureCoarser, water-resistantSofter, silkier, more prone to matting
Common ColoursLiver/white, black/white (often ticked)Solid gold, black, liver; blue roan, orange roan, tri-colour
Body BuildLonger legs, athletic, squareCompact, lower to ground, rounded
English Springer Spaniel And Cocker Spaniel Near Lake

Both breeds are friendly, people-oriented, biddable gun dogs that want to be near you and want to make you happy. They’re among the most trainable and family-friendly breeds in the ANKC gundog group. But they express these traits at different intensities.

This is the biggest practical difference. The English Springer Spaniel genuinely needs 90–120 minutes of exercise daily — not just walking, but running, swimming, retrieving, and mental stimulation. They were bred to work all day in the field, and without sufficient exercise, they become restless, destructive, and sometimes manic. A bored Springer is an agent of chaos. The English Cocker Spaniel needs 60–90 minutes daily — still substantial, but more manageable for average families. Cockers are happy with a long walk and some garden play, whereas Springers need actual physical exertion. Working-line dogs of both breeds need even more.

Both breeds are affectionate, but the Cocker is the cuddlier dog. Cockers are classic velcro dogs — they want to be on your lap, leaning against you, sleeping in your bed. They bond deeply and crave physical closeness. Springers are affectionate too, but with a bit more independence. They’ll be in the room with you, they’ll greet you enthusiastically, but they’re also happy doing their own thing (usually involving their nose). The Springer says “I love you, but have you smelled this?” The Cocker says “I love you, please never leave me.”

English Cocker Spaniels are significantly more prone to separation anxiety than Springers. This is one of the most important differences for Australian families where both adults work. Cockers left alone for long hours can become distressed, destructive, and develop chronic barking. Springers handle alone time better, though neither breed should be left for more than 4–6 hours without company. If you work full-time, either budget for doggy daycare or a dog walker, or seriously consider a less people-dependent breed.

Both breeds are highly trainable — they’re gun dogs bred to work with handlers. Springers are slightly easier to train because they’re less sensitive and recover faster from corrections. Cockers are intelligent and eager to please but “softer” emotionally — a harsh tone can shut them down. Positive reinforcement is essential for Cockers and effective for both breeds. Both excel in obedience, agility, scent work, and retrieving trials.

Both are outstanding family dogs. The Springer’s size and robustness make them well suited to families with active older children who want a dog that can keep up with roughhousing and long hikes. The Cocker’s smaller size and gentler temperament make them slightly better suited to families with younger children — they’re less likely to accidentally bowl over a toddler. Both breeds are patient, tolerant, and genuinely enjoy being part of a busy household.

Both breeds generally get along well with other dogs and can coexist with cats, especially if raised together. Springers have a slightly higher prey drive (they’re bigger and more athletic), which can be a factor around small pets like rabbits or guinea pigs. Cockers are more reliably gentle with other animals. Neither breed is dog-aggressive by nature.

[Image: Springer Spaniel retrieving. Alt text: “English Springer Spaniel carrying a ball through water”]

Both breeds share common spaniel health vulnerabilities due to their closely related genetics. However, each has some breed-specific conditions that prospective owners should understand.

Shared health risks: Hip dysplasia (common in both breeds — always check parent hip scores), progressive retinal atrophy (PRA — DNA-testable), ear infections (both breeds’ floppy ears trap moisture and create the perfect environment for yeast and bacteria — this is the single most common reason both breeds visit the vet), and obesity (both breeds are food-motivated and will overeat if allowed).

Springer-specific risks: Elbow dysplasia (more common in Springers than Cockers due to their larger size), phosphofructokinase (PFK) deficiency (a DNA-testable metabolic condition), fucosidosis (a fatal storage disease — DNA-testable, responsible breeders screen for this), and autoimmune conditions including immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia. Springers from certain lines can also be prone to “rage syndrome” — a rare but serious behavioural condition involving sudden, unprovoked aggression. It’s uncommon in well-bred lines but worth discussing with your breeder.

Cocker-specific risks: Patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation), cherry eye (prolapsed gland of the third eyelid), intervertebral disc disease (IVDD — disc degeneration causing pain or hind-leg paralysis), lip fold dermatitis (“cocker mouth” — infected skin folds around the muzzle), and adult-onset neuropathy (AON — a DNA-testable progressive neurological condition). Cockers also have higher rates of ear infections than Springers due to their longer, heavier ears. Skin allergies and hypothyroidism are more common in Cockers.

For both breeds, ask breeders for hip scores, DNA test results (PRA, FN/Fucosidosis, PFK for Springers; PRA, AON, FN for Cockers), and eye examination certificates. Reputable ANKC breeders will provide these willingly.

Health ConcernSpringer Risk | Est. CostCocker Risk | Est. Cost
Hip DysplasiaModerate | $3,000–$8,000Moderate | $3,000–$8,000
Ear Infections (chronic)High | $200–$500/episodeVery High | $200–$500/episode
Eye Conditions (PRA etc)Moderate | $1,000–$4,000Moderate–High | $1,000–$4,000
Elbow DysplasiaModerate | $2,000–$6,000Low | $2,000–$6,000
Patellar LuxationLow | $1,500–$4,000Moderate | $1,500–$4,000
IVDD (disc disease)Low | $3,000–$10,000Low–Moderate | $3,000–$10,000
Cherry EyeLow | $500–$1,500Moderate | $500–$1,500
Est. Annual Vet Costs$600 – $1,500$700 – $1,800

The English Cocker Spaniel is the higher-maintenance dog in the grooming department. Their longer, silkier coat mats more easily, needs more frequent brushing, and requires more professional grooming visits. If you’ve ever seen a beautifully presented show Cocker, know that look requires daily brushing, regular trimming, and significant grooming skill.

The Springer’s coat is shorter and coarser, making it more manageable. They still need regular brushing and professional grooming, but it’s less intensive. Most pet Springers do well with brushing 2–3 times per week and professional grooming every 8–10 weeks.

The big grooming concern for both breeds is ears. Those beautiful floppy ears trap moisture, dirt, and debris, creating a breeding ground for infections. Weekly ear cleaning is non-negotiable for both breeds, and Cockers may need their ear canals checked even more frequently. Many owners learn to trim the hair under and around the ears to improve airflow.

Grooming TaskEnglish Springer SpanielEnglish Cocker Spaniel
Brushing Frequency2–3 times per weekEvery 2–3 days (daily for show coat)
Professional GroomingEvery 8–10 weeks | $60–$100 AUDEvery 6–8 weeks | $70–$120 AUD
BathingEvery 4–6 weeks (or after swimming)Every 2–4 weeks
Ear CleaningWeekly (essential)Twice weekly (essential)
Nail TrimmingEvery 2–3 weeksEvery 2–3 weeks
Coat Trimming FocusEars, feet, underbelly featheringEars, feet, legs, chest, skirt feathering
Shedding LevelModerate (seasonal blowouts)Moderate (seasonal blowouts)
English Springer Spaniel And Cocker Spaniel Running

Both breeds are working gun dogs, and “energetic” is an understatement. However, the Springer’s exercise needs are on a different level to the Cocker’s, and underestimating this is the most common mistake Springer owners make.

Exercise FactorEnglish Springer SpanielEnglish Cocker Spaniel
Daily Exercise Needed90–120 minutes (minimum)60–90 minutes
Exercise TypeLong walks, runs, swimming, retrieving, field work, scent gamesWalks, garden play, swimming, fetch, moderate scent work
Off-Leash SuitabilityGood — if recall trained (strong prey drive)Good — generally reliable recall
SwimmingLoves it — natural water dogsLoves it — natural water dogs
If Under-Exercised…Destructive, restless, manic, barking, diggingAnxious, attention-seeking, weight gain, barking
Best ForActive owners, runners, hikers, rural/suburban homesModerately active families, suburban homes

Both breeds handle Australian temperate climates well (Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Hobart, Perth). Their double coats provide some insulation in both directions, but they’re not designed for tropical heat. In QLD, NT, or northern WA, keep exercise to early morning and late evening during summer, provide plenty of shade and water, and never leave them in a hot car or yard without shade. Both breeds love swimming, which is a great way to exercise them in warmer months. Watch for grass seeds in ears, paws, and underbelly after walks in dry bushland — this is a common and serious issue for both breeds in Australia, especially between November and March. Grass seeds can burrow into ears, eyes, and between toes, requiring veterinary removal.

Both breeds are among the most trainable dogs in the ANKC gundog group. They’re intelligent, eager to please, and food-motivated — a combination that makes training rewarding for owners at all experience levels.

The English Springer Spaniel is slightly more robust emotionally. They handle corrections better, recover from mistakes faster, and can tolerate more training pressure without shutting down. This makes them popular with professional trainers and hunters. They’re also highly driven, which means they’ll work hard for rewards but may also be more easily distracted by scent and movement — a Springer that catches a scent trail can become temporarily deaf to your commands.

The English Cocker Spaniel is a “softer” dog emotionally. They’re extremely responsive to tone of voice, and a raised voice or harsh correction can set training back weeks. Positive reinforcement is not just recommended for Cockers — it’s essential. On the upside, their sensitivity makes them incredibly attuned to their owners and highly responsive to gentle, consistent training. Many trainers consider Cockers easier for first-time dog owners because they’re more naturally inclined to stay close and seek approval.

Critical training for BOTH breeds: Recall training (both breeds have prey drive and can take off after birds, rabbits, or interesting smells), impulse control (they’re food-obsessed and need to learn “leave it” early), and socialisation (both breeds benefit enormously from early exposure to other dogs, people, and environments). Neither breed should be trained with aversive methods — force-based training damages both breeds psychologically, but Cockers in particular can develop anxiety-based behavioural problems from harsh handling.


Which Costs More in Australia?

The English Cocker Spaniel currently costs significantly more to purchase in Australia. Registered ANKC breeders typically charge $3,000–$6,000 AUD for a Cocker puppy, with rare colours (blue roan, chocolate roan, black and tan) pushing to $4,500+. Some boutique breeders charge $5,000–$7,000. English Springer Spaniels are more moderately priced at $1,500–$3,500 AUD from registered breeders. The price difference reflects the Cocker’s current popularity as a fashionable companion breed in Australia and somewhat smaller litter sizes.

Ongoing costs are comparable, though the Cocker’s higher grooming needs and tendency toward chronic ear infections can add $500–$1,000 per year in extra vet and grooming bills. The Springer’s higher food consumption (larger dog) roughly balances this out.

Cost CategorySpringer Spaniel (AUD)Cocker Spaniel (AUD)
Puppy (Registered Breeder)$1,500 – $3,500$3,000 – $6,000
Rescue / Adoption$300 – $800$400 – $1,200
First-Year Setup$1,000 – $1,500$1,000 – $1,500
Annual Food$800 – $1,200$600 – $1,000
Professional Grooming (Annual)$400 – $700$500 – $900
Pet Insurance (Monthly)$40 – $80$40 – $80
Est. Annual Vet Costs$600 – $1,500$700 – $1,800
Lifetime Cost (Est.)$25,000 – $50,000$30,000 – $55,000

Both breeds are well suited to southern and southeastern Australia (VIC, TAS, SA, southern NSW, Perth). Their double coats provide some heat protection but they’re not tropical dogs. In subtropical and tropical areas (Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin), exercise management is critical. Both breeds love swimming, which is a major advantage in the Australian climate — beaches, dams, and backyard pools are all excellent exercise options.

Neither breed is affected by breed-specific legislation in any Australian state or territory.

Standard council registration applies. Costs vary by LGA, typically $20–$70/year (desexed). Both breeds are ANKC Group 3 — Gundogs and will come with pedigree documentation from registered breeders.

The Cocker is the more rental-friendly choice. At 12–16 kg, they’re under most weight limits for rental properties and can manage in a house with a small yard (with adequate daily exercise). The Springer at 18–25 kg is a bigger commitment for rentals and genuinely needs a proper yard or access to large open spaces. Both breeds are shedding dogs, which can be a factor for bond cleaning.

This is the biggest Australia-specific risk for both breeds. Their feathered coats and floppy ears make them grass-seed magnets, particularly between October and March. Grass seeds can penetrate ear canals, lodge between toes, and burrow through skin, causing abscesses and sometimes requiring surgery. Prevention: trim feathering around paws and ears, check your dog thoroughly after every walk in dry grass, and avoid long-grass areas during seed season. This is a serious, recurring cost for Australian spaniel owners — budget $200–$500 per season for potential grass-seed-related vet visits.

Both breeds are at standard risk in tick-endemic areas. Their floppy ears and thick coat make tick detection harder — run your hands through the coat daily in tick season and maintain year-round prevention (NexGard, Bravecto, Simparica). Both breeds are curious dogs that will investigate snakes if given the opportunity. Snake-avoidance training is available in many parts of Australia and is worth considering for either breed.

English Springer Spaniel And Cocker Spaniel At Lounge Area
  • You’re genuinely active and can provide 90–120 minutes of exercise daily — not as a goal, but as a lifestyle reality. Runners, hikers, field-trial enthusiasts, and families who spend weekends outdoors
  • You have a house with a proper fenced yard, ideally with garden space or nearby open areas
  • You want a robust, slightly more independent gun dog that can handle a busier, noisier household
  • You want a dog for field trials, hunting, scent work, or serious obedience competition
  • You prefer spending less upfront and want a dog that’s slightly easier to groom
  • You’re moderately active with 60–90 minutes daily for exercise — enough for long walks and garden play, but not marathon training sessions
  • You want a deeply affectionate, cuddly companion that will be your shadow — the Cocker’s devotion to its people is one of its defining traits
  • You have younger children who need a gentle, patient, smaller dog
  • You live in a smaller home or townhouse with a courtyard (not an apartment without outdoor space)
  • You don’t mind higher grooming and ear-care commitments
  • You work full-time without access to doggy daycare, a dog walker, or a family member at home. Both breeds need companionship; the Cocker in particular will suffer from long hours alone
  • You don’t exercise regularly. Even the Cocker needs 60+ minutes daily, every day, regardless of weather or your mood. A sedentary owner will end up with a fat, anxious spaniel
  • You want a low-maintenance coat. Both breeds shed, need regular professional grooming, and their ears need constant attention. If grooming feels like a chore, these aren’t your breeds
  • You want a guard dog. Both breeds will alert bark, but they’re likely to greet a burglar with a wagging tail and bring them a shoe
  • You have a cat or small pets and can’t supervise introductions. Both breeds have prey drive, and while most coexist well with cats, it requires management, especially for Springers

  • The English Springer Spaniel is the marathon runner of the spaniel world — bigger, more athletic, more energetic, and built for owners who genuinely live an active outdoor lifestyle. It’s the better choice for serious dog sports, field work, and families who spend their weekends hiking, camping, or at the beach.
  • The English Cocker Spaniel is the devoted best friend — smaller, softer, more adaptable, and wired for deep human connection. It’s the better choice for families wanting a loving, beautiful, moderately active companion that thrives on being part of daily life.
  • Both breeds are among the finest family dogs in the gundog group. Both need more exercise and grooming than most people expect. Both will steal your heart with those liquid spaniel eyes and keep stealing your socks for the next 12+ years.

Are Springer Spaniels and Cocker Spaniels related?

Yes, closely. They were historically the same breed, separated only by size within individual litters. Larger puppies became Springers and smaller puppies became Cockers. They were formally recognised as separate breeds by The Kennel Club (UK) in the 1890s–1900s. They share common ancestors, common health risks, and much of the same temperament.

What is the difference between an English Cocker Spaniel and an American Cocker Spaniel?

In Australia, “Cocker Spaniel” almost always refers to the English Cocker Spaniel. The American Cocker Spaniel is a separate breed — smaller, rounder, with a more profuse coat and a shorter muzzle. American Cockers are less common in Australia and are a different ANKC breed registration. This guide compares the English Cocker Spaniel with the English Springer Spaniel.

Which breed sheds more?

Both shed a similar amount — moderate year-round with heavier seasonal blowouts in spring and autumn. Neither is hypoallergenic. The Cocker’s longer coat can make shedding more noticeable because the hair is longer and tends to cling to furniture and clothing. Regular brushing reduces shedding for both breeds.

Can Cockers and Springers live in apartments?

Cockers can manage in a townhouse with a courtyard if given 60–90 minutes of daily exercise outside the home. Springers are not recommended for apartment or townhouse living — their size and energy level really do require a proper yard and access to large open spaces. For both breeds, a sedentary indoor lifestyle will lead to behavioural and weight problems.

Which breed is better for first-time dog owners?

The English Cocker Spaniel is generally better for first-time owners. They’re smaller, slightly less demanding exercise-wise, and their sensitivity makes them very responsive to gentle, consistent training. The Springer’s higher energy and stronger drive can be overwhelming for inexperienced owners. However, both breeds are good choices for committed first-timers willing to invest in training and exercise.

How bad are the ear infections, really?

Ear infections are the single most common health issue in both breeds, but especially Cockers. Their long, pendulous ears create warm, moist environments that breed yeast and bacteria. Many spaniel owners deal with chronic ear infections costing $200–$500 per episode, multiple times per year. Prevention is key: clean ears weekly (twice weekly for Cockers), dry ears thoroughly after swimming, and keep hair trimmed around the ear canal. Some owners use ear-drying solutions after every water exposure.

Which spaniel is better for hunting in Australia?

Both breeds are capable gun dogs, and both are used for hunting upland game in Australia. The Springer’s larger size and greater stamina make it better suited to long days in rough terrain. The Cocker’s compact size makes it more effective in dense undergrowth. For serious field work, source a puppy from working-line (not show-line) breeders — the temperament and drive difference is significant.

Are Springer Spaniels prone to rage syndrome?

Springer “rage syndrome” (idiopathic aggression) is a real but rare condition where a dog has sudden, unprovoked aggressive episodes followed by normal behaviour. It’s been associated with certain bloodlines, particularly in solid-coloured (especially golden) show-line Springers. It is uncommon in well-bred, health-tested lines. Ask breeders directly about any history of aggression in their lines, and only buy from breeders who prioritise temperament testing.

How much do these breeds cost to own per year in Australia?

Budget approximately $2,500–$4,500 per year for a Springer and $3,000–$5,000 for a Cocker, covering food, grooming, vet care, insurance, preventatives, and sundries. The Cocker’s higher grooming costs and ear-infection tendency increase annual expenses slightly. Major health events (hip surgery, IVDD, chronic ear disease) can add thousands to a single year.

1. DogsOnline — English Springer Spaniel Breeders: https://www.dogzonline.com.au/breeds/breeders/english-springer-spaniel.asp

2. DogsOnline — English Springer Spaniel Puppies: https://www.dogzonline.com.au/breeds/puppies/english-springer-spaniel.asp

3. Cocker Spaniel Club of QLD — Puppy Information: https://www.cockerspanielclub.com/puppies.asp

4. PetsOnline Australia — Cocker Spaniel Pricing: https://petsonline.com.au/dog-breeds/english-cocker-spaniel/prices/

5. PetPost Australia — English Cocker Spaniel Guide: https://www.petpost.com.au/breed/dog-breeds/english-cocker-spaniel

6. PetsRadar — Cocker vs Springer Spaniel: https://www.petsradar.com/dogs/dog-breeds/english-cocker-spaniel-vs-english-springer-spaniel

7. MeatEater — Springer vs Cocker Field Comparison: https://www.themeateater.com/hunt/dog/breed-battles-springer-spaniel-vs-english-cocker

8. Thornfield Spaniels — Working Springer Breeder (AU): https://thornfield.com.au/

9. PuppyList Australia — Springer Spaniel Pricing: https://puppylist.com.au/breeds/english-springer-spaniel/price/

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