American Cocker Spaniel vs Labrador Retriever
Discover the differences between American Cocker Spaniel and Labrador 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.
Labrador Retriever
Eager, friendly, and intelligent, this breed loves being part of an active family. Their gentle nature and loyalty make them outstanding companions for all ages.
Quick comparison
Medium
11–13.5 kg
Silky, feathered
12–15 years
9–12 kg
Moderately active
Large
29–36 kg
Short double coat, water-resistant
10–12 years
25–32 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
Labrador Retriever
Warm and sociable with people and animals
Quick learner, responds well to training
High stamina, enjoys active pursuits daily
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts easily to new situations and environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
American Cocker Spaniel
Ear infections, cataracts
Labrador 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
Labrador Retriever
Great choice
Patient and eager to please, Labradors are manageable for most first-time owners.
Not ideal
Labradors need space and exercise, so apartments can limit their activity needs.
Perfect fit
High energy and stamina make them excellent for active individuals or families.
Highly suitable
Gentle temperament and playful nature make them safe and loving with young children.
Very friendly
Generally sociable and get along well with other dogs and pets.
Prone to anxiety
Extended alone time can lead to boredom and destructive behaviors in this breed.
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
Labrador Retriever
- Friendly and sociable with people and dogs
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Excellent with children and families
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
- Generally adaptable to various living situations
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
Labrador Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- Can become destructive if under-exercised
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires regular grooming
- May develop hip or elbow dysplasia
- Needs significant daily physical activity
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