Compare breeds
Cocker Spaniel vs Labrador Retriever
Cocker Spaniel
Long
Labrador Retriever
Short
Choose the Cocker Spaniel if you want…
- a flat or small home
- less hair around the house
Choose the Labrador Retriever if you want…
- a home with other pets
- a dog or cat that learns quickly
- less time spent grooming
- a quieter companion
Side by side
| Trait | Cocker Spaniel | Labrador Retriever |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Weight | 12–15 kg (26–33 lb) | 25–36 kg (55–79 lb) |
| Height | 38–41 cm (15–16 in) | 55–62 cm (22–24 in) |
| Life span | 12–15 years | 10–12 years |
| Origin | England | Canada and the United Kingdom |
| Energy | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Trainability | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Good with children | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Good with other pets | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Suits a flat | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Shedding | 3/5 | 4/5 |
| Grooming needs | 4/5 | 2/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 3/5 | 2/5 |
Quick answers
Which is bigger, the Cocker Spaniel or the Labrador Retriever?
The Labrador Retriever — typically about 2.3 times the weight. Cocker Spaniel: 12–15 kg (26–33 lb); Labrador Retriever: 25–36 kg (55–79 lb).
Which lives longer, the Cocker Spaniel or the Labrador Retriever?
The Cocker Spaniel, on average. Cocker Spaniel: 12–15 years; Labrador Retriever: 10–12 years.
Is the Cocker Spaniel or the Labrador Retriever better with children?
We rate them the same. Both still need supervision with young children.
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Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts