American Cocker Spaniel vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between American Cocker Spaniel and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
American Cocker Spaniel
A cheerful, affectionate companion with expressive eyes and a silky coat. Loves interactive play and thrives in active households with plenty of attention.
Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Medium
11–13.5 kg
Silky, feathered
12–15 years
9–12 kg
Moderately active
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
American Cocker Spaniel
Very sociable with people and other pets
Learns commands and routines fairly quickly
Needs daily activity and regular exercise
Enjoys games and interactive play sessions
Adjusts well to various living situations
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
American Cocker Spaniel
Ear infections, cataracts
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
American Cocker Spaniel
Great choice
Eager to please and adaptable, they suit new dog owners well
Very suitable
Their small size and moderate energy fit apartment life well
Good match
Enjoys activity but doesn’t require intense daily exercise
Very friendly
Gentle and affectionate with children when socialized early
Usually compatible
Generally gets along with other pets if introduced properly
Prone to anxiety
Can develop separation issues if left alone for long periods
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
American Cocker Spaniel
- Affectionate with family members
- Good with children and pets
- Eager to please and trainable
- Adaptable to apartment living
- Enjoys interactive play and activities
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
American Cocker Spaniel
- Prone to ear infections
- Requires frequent grooming and trimming
- Can be sensitive to harsh correction
- May develop separation anxiety
- Tendency to bark when bored or lonely
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
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