Cocker Spaniel versus Dutch Shepherd. Final Verdict on Which is a Better Pet.

Cocker Spaniel versus Dutch Shepherd

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Cocker Spaniel Versus Dutch Shepherd: Introduction

Are you thinking of getting a new pet dog, and you have narrowed down your choices to the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd? Well, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will provide you a detailed comparison of these two dog breeds to help you decide which of the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd better suits you.

We will provide you a detailed discussion and comparison of dog attributes such as intelligence, price, general health, friendliness, etc, for both the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd.

Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd is better suited for new dog owners, for owners with kids, for owners that live in apartments, for owners with dog allergies, etc.

Importantly, we did some analysis and calculation and we obtained a number that we call the Better-Pet Score™ for both the Cocker Spaniel and for the Dutch Shepherd. The dog breed with the higher Better-Pet score is the `better` pet. We hope that these Better-Pet Scores will provide you more insight into deciding which pet to get between the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd.

Our only goal here is to help you make a well-thought-out decision on your next long-term companion, be it the Cocker Spaniel or the Dutch Shepherd

Cocker Spaniel versus Dutch Shepherd

Cocker Spaniel versus Dutch Shepherd: Overview

A very important difference between the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd is the size difference between the two dog breeds. The Cocker Spaniel is a small-sized dog while the Dutch Shepherd is a medium-sized dog.

Furthermore, the Cocker Spaniel belongs to the Sporting Dogs group. Sporting Dogs were bred to help hunters catch and retrieve feathered game. Some sporting dog breeds such as Retrievers, which were built for swimming, were bred to hunt waterfowl in water. Whereas sporting dog breeds like setters, spaniels, and pointing breeds were bred to hunt quail, pheasant, and other game birds nest on grasslands. Many Sporting Group breeds have thick, water-repellent coats that protect them from harsh hunting conditions.

On the other hand, the Dutch Shepherd belongs to the Herding Dogs group. Herding Dogs were bred for moving livestock, including sheep, cattle, and even reindeer. Herding dogs work closely with their human shepherds, and their natural intelligence and responsiveness make them highly trainable. They have high levels of energy, which needs to be channeled properly to prevent destructive behavior. Herding breeds are protective of their people and property and make excellent watchdogs. Their intelligence, agility, and activity level make them well suited to dog sports.

Cocker Spaniel versus Dutch Shepherd: Comparison Table

The table below compares the Cocker Spaniel to the Dutch Shepherd based on different important factors such as Price, Health, Kid-friendliness, etc.

When a dog breed scores higher for a factor than the other dog breed, the box of the breed that scores higher is shaded green and the box of the breed that scores lower is shaded red. When there is no difference between the breeds for a particular factor then the box is shaded gray for both pets. Also, when the factor is not important in picking a pet, or when the factor cannot be compared between two pets, the box for the factor is shaded gray for both pets

Most of the factors in the table for each dog breed are ranked on a scale of 1 to 5. “1” means “worst”, and “5” means “best”.

However, some factors such as “Price”, “Average Lifespan”, etc. cannot be on a scale of 1 to 5, so they are not on a scale of 1 to 5 in the comparison table.

Factor Cocker Spaniel Dutch Shepherd
Tolerates Being Alone 1/5 2/5
Does NOT Drool 5/5 4/5
Easy To Groom 1/5 3/5
Height 1 foot, 2 inches to 1 foot, 3 inches tall at the s 21 to 25 inches
Life Span 12 to 15 years 12 to 15 years
Calmness/ Low Vigor 4/5 3/5
Weight 24 to 28 pounds 50 to 70 pounds
Good For Novice Owners 3/5 3/5
Tolerates Hot Weather 3/5 4/5
Kid-Friendly 3/5 4/5
Friendly Toward Strangers 3/5 2/5
Does NOT Shed 3/5 2/5
Does NOT Bark or Howl 3/5 4/5
Minimal Exercise Needs 3/5 2/5
Tolerates Cold Weather 4/5 4/5
Dog Friendly 4/5 4/5
General Health 4/5 4/5
Potential NOT to Gain Weight 2/5 4/5
Intelligence 4/5 4/5
Does NOT chew on things 2/5 4/5
Tendency NOT to Wander 2/5 4/5
NOT Rambunctious 2/5 2/5
Potential For Playfulness 4/5 4/5
Adapts Well To Apartment Living 5/5 3/5
Easygoing 1/5 3/5
Affectionate With Family 5/5 4/5
Easy To Train 5/5 5/5
Low Prey Drive 1/5 3/5
Average Lifespan 13.5 years 13.5 years
Average Price $1760 $1590
Price Range $1200 – $2000 $900 – $2000
Temperament Score 82.0 percent 96.2 percent
Common Health Problems and Recommended Health Tests
  • Eye Examination
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • No Data

    *Data from dogtime.com, OFA.org (The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals), petcalculator.com, wikipedia.org, ATTS.org (the American Temperament Test Society)

    Next, we added the scores of the factors that can be added together for the Cocker Spaniel in the table (that is, `Ease of Grooming` score + `General Health` score + `Calmness` score + …etc) and we compared it to the corresponding total score for the Dutch Shepherd. We call these total scores the Better-Pet Scores, as we mentioned earlier. We called this score the Better-Pet score because the better dog breed will have a higher score. This is because the pet will the higher score will have minimal needs and be easier to have as a pet.

    The Better-Pet score for a Cocker Spaniel is 77 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for a Dutch Shepherd is 85 out of 125.

    Based on their Better-Pet scores, the Dutch Shepherd is a better pet than the Cocker Spaniel. So, you should get the Dutch Shepherd!

    Although we have done our best to analyze these two dog breeds in a very unbiased way, however, we will like to let you know that there are some dog attributes that cannot be assigned a number for comparison. We cannot put a number on how cute a dog breed is, for example. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

    Also, the dog breed that best suits you will depend on your peculiar lifestyle, your taste, and your priorities, which we do not know. So, for you to decide on which breed is right for you, read through the rest of the article to further understand both the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd so that you can make your own well-informed decision on which pet to get.

    Cocker Spaniel versus Dutch Shepherd

    The Similarities Between the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd

    The Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd are very similar in certain aspects. Below is the list of where the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd are most similar:

  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd do not like to be left alone.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd do not have the tendency to drool.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd do the things they do with very low vigor. They are not forceful.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd can tolerate cold weather.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd get along well with other dogs.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd are very healthy. They do not suffer from a lot of health problems compared to other dog breeds
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd are highly intelligent.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd have very high energy levels. They need a lot of exercise time to release their high energy.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd are very playful.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd are very easy to train.
  • Size (Weight and Height) of Cocker Spaniel versus Dutch Shepherd

    Now, let us discuss the difference in size between the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd.

    Cocker Spaniels weigh 24 to 28 pounds when fully grown. Cocker Spaniels are 1 foot, 2 inches to 1 foot, 3 inches tall at the s when fully grown.

    On the other hand, Dutch Shepherds weigh 50 to 70 pounds when fully grown. Dutch Shepherds are 21 to 25 inches when fully grown.

    Temperament of the Cocker Spaniel Versus the Dutch Shepherd

    The Dutch Shepherd has a better temperament than the Cocker Spaniel.

    This is because the temperament score for the Dutch Shepherd is 96.2 percent while the temperament score for the Cocker Spaniel is 82.0 percent, according to the American Temperament Test Society (ATTS).

    The American Temperament Test Society (ATTS) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide fair and objective evaluations of the temperaments of dog breeds.

    Dog breeds with low temperament scores tend to show unprovoked aggression, they easily panic without quickly recovering from the panic, and they tend to avoid people. However, dog breeds with high temperament scores are not aggressive and are not shy. Also, these dogs are generally friendly and they are protective of their owners.

    The average temperament score across all dog breeds (over 250 breeds) is 83.7 percent.

    With its temperament score of 82.0 percent, the Cocker Spaniel has a below-average temperament compared to other dog breeds.

    With its temperament score of 96.2 percent, the Dutch Shepherd has an above-average temperament compared to other dog breeds.

    The ATTS obtained the temperament scores of the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd by measuring the temperaments of 233 Cocker Spaniels and 26 Dutch Shepherds.

    Price of Cocker Spaniel versus Price of Dutch Shepherd

    The average price of the Cocker Spaniel puppy is $1760. The price of the Cocker Spaniel typically ranges from $1200 – $2000. However, the price of a Cocker Spaniel can be as low as $700 and as high as $4125. We obtained this price information by reviewing the prices of 297 Cocker Spaniel puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The average price of the Dutch Shepherd puppy is $1590. The price of the Dutch Shepherd typically ranges from $900 – $2000. However, the price of a Dutch Shepherd can be as low as $100 and as high as $5000. We obtained this price information by collecting and reviewing the prices of 116 Dutch Shepherd puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The Cocker Spaniel is more expensive than the Dutch Shepherd.

    Cocker Spaniel Dutch Shepherd
    Average Price $1760 $1590
    Price Range $1200 to $2000 $900 to $2000

    The charts below show the price distribution for the Cocker Spaniel and Dutch Shepherd. For different price points, the charts show how many Cocker Spaniel puppies or how many Dutch Shepherd puppies are listed for sale at those price points.

    A breakdown of the prices of Cocker Spaniels. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Cocker Spaniels. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Dutch Shepherds

    A breakdown of the prices of Dutch Shepherds

    Note that a lot of factors determine how much you can expect to pay for the Cocker Spaniel puppy or the Dutch Shepherd puppy. This includes if health screening tests have been performed on the puppy, if the puppy is from a famous pedigree, the US State where the puppy is bred, etc.

    Nevertheless, when looking from a puppy, look at buying a puppy only from well-established breeders that breed puppies primarily for the love of dogs, and secondarily for profit. Do not buy a puppy from one of those puppy mills that mass-produce puppies in bad living conditions for maximum profit.

    You may also consider adopting a dog instead of buying a dog.

    Cocker Spaniel versus Dutch Shepherd

    Adopting the Cocker Spaniel versus Adopting the Dutch Shepherd

    You may consider adopting a dog instead of buying a puppy. Many Cocker Spaniels and many Dutch Shepherds are currently available for adoption.

    These adorable and cute dogs are waiting in dog shelters hoping that someday someone will rescue them. Furthermore, adoption costs are lesser than the cost of a new puppy. Dog adoption costs are usually around $300. In addition to your local dog shelter, a good place online to see dogs that are available for adoption is petfinder.com.

    Below is an adorable Male Cocker Spaniel named Panchito that is currently available for adoption on Petfinder.com. You can find other lovely adoptable Cocker Spaniels like Panchito on pefinder.com.

    Also, like Cocker Spaniels, Dutch Shepherds are also available for adoption. For example, Mercy – Located In Connecticut is a Male Dutch Shepherd that is currently available for adoption on petfinder.com. You can find more Dutch Shepherds like Mercy – Located In Connecticut that are up for adoption on petfinder.com.

    The Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd can both be adopted. Images from petfinder.com

    Finnegan is the name of another Cocker Spaniel (Male) on petfinder.com that is looking for a new home.

    Also Guiness – Located In North Carolina, an adorable Male Dutch Shepherd on petfinder.com that you can adopt.

    Cocker Spaniels and Dutch Shepherds are always available for adoption. Images from petfinder.com

    You can find more Cocker Spaniels and Dutch Shepherds that are available for adoption on petfinder.

    Cocker Spaniel versus Dutch Shepherd

    Tolerates Being Alone: Cocker Spaniel versus Dutch Shepherd

    Cocker Spaniels do not like to be left alone.

    Dutch Shepherds do not like to be left alone.

    Which one drools more, the Cocker Spaniel or the Dutch Shepherd

    Cocker Spaniels do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Dutch Shepherds do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Which is Easier to Groom, the Cocker Spaniel or the Dutch Shepherd?

    Cocker Spaniels require a lot of grooming and they are not very easy to groom.

    Dutch Shepherds are moderately easy to groom.

    Which is Better for New Dog Owners, the Cocker Spaniel or the Dutch Shepherd?

    Cocker Spaniels are OK for new dog owners.

    Dutch Shepherds are OK for new dog owners.

    Can Cocker Spaniels Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Dutch Shepherds Tolerate Hot Weather?

    Cocker Spaniels can tolerate hot weather as long as the weather is not too hot.

    Dutch Shepherds can tolerate hot weather.

    How Kid-friendly are Cocker Spaniels and Dutch Shepherds?

    Cocker Spaniels get along fairly well with kids. They are quite kid-friendly.

    Dutch Shepherds get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Do Cocker Spaniels shed more than Dutch Shepherds?

    Cocker Spaniels shed moderately.

    Dutch Shepherds shed. They are not recommended for people with dog allergies.

    Do Cocker Spaniels Bark and Howl? What about Dutch Shepherds?

    Cocker Spaniels bark and howl, but not very much.

    Dutch Shepherds are not very vocal. They do not tend to bark and howl.

    Can Cocker Spaniels Tolerate Cold Weather? And can Dutch Shepherds Tolerate Cold Weather?

    Cocker Spaniels can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Dutch Shepherds can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Which Dog Breed is more Dog-Friendly, the Cocker Spaniel or the Dutch Shepherd?

    Cocker Spaniels get along very well with other dogs.

    Dutch Shepherds get along very well with other dogs.

    Wanderlust Potential: Cocker Spaniel vs. Dutch Shepherd

    Cocker Spaniels have a high tendency to wander. They are easily distracted by other animals or objects.

    Dutch Shepherds do not have the potential to wander after things that capture their attention. They tend to stay around where you leave them.

    Is the Cocker Spaniel Better for Apartment Owners than the Dutch Shepherd?

    Cocker Spaniels adapt very well to apartment living.

    Dutch Shepherds adapt moderately well to apartment living.

    Are Cocker Spaniels good family dogs? What about Dutch Shepherds?

    Cocker Spaniels are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    Dutch Shepherds are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    Is the Cocker Spaniel Easier to Train than the Dutch Shepherd?

    Cocker Spaniels are very easy to train.

    Dutch Shepherds are very easy to train.

    Does the Cocker Spaniel Have a Higher Prey Drive than the Dutch Shepherd?

    Cocker Spaniels have a high prey drive. They have the tendency to chase after smaller animals and pets. They do not get along well with other pets.

    Dutch Shepherds have a moderate prey drive. They can sometimes chase after smaller animals and pets.

    Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Cocker Spaniel

    Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Cocker Spaniel that you can consider on your quest to get the best pet.

    We crunched the numbers and found that the following dog breeds have similar personality and temperament as the Cocker Spaniel:

  • Bichon Frise (77 percent match with Cocker Spaniel). Here is our comparison of the Dutch Shepherd vs Bichon Frise.
  • English Cocker Spaniel (76 percent match with Cocker Spaniel). Here is our comparison of the Dutch Shepherd vs English Cocker Spaniel.
  • Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Dutch Shepherd

    Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Dutch Shepherd that you can consider on your quest to get the best pet.

    We crunched the numbers and found that the following dog breeds have similar personality and temperament as the Dutch Shepherd:

  • French Spaniel (80 percent match with Dutch Shepherd). Here is our comparison of the Cocker Spaniel vs French Spaniel.
  • Japanese Spitz (79 percent match with Dutch Shepherd). Here is our comparison of the Cocker Spaniel vs Japanese Spitz.
  • Other Breed Comparisons that Might Interest You

    You may also be interested in how the Cocker Spaniel and how the Dutch Shepherd compares to other breeds. So, see below the comparison of the Cocker Spaniel and of the Dutch Shepherd to other breeds:

    Cocker Spaniel Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Cocker Spaniel versus Schnoodle     Cocker Spaniel versus Chinook     Cocker Spaniel versus German Shorthaired Pointer     Cocker Spaniel versus Belgian Sheepdog     Cocker Spaniel versus Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever     Cocker Spaniel versus Afador     Cocker Spaniel versus Welsh Terrier     Cocker Spaniel versus Lakeland Terrier     Cocker Spaniel versus Appenzeller Sennenhunde     Cocker Spaniel versus Akita Chow     

    Dutch Shepherd Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Dutch Shepherd versus German Longhaired Pointer     Dutch Shepherd versus Boxer     Dutch Shepherd versus Lowchen     Dutch Shepherd versus Puggle     Dutch Shepherd versus Pointer     Dutch Shepherd versus Bichon Frise     Dutch Shepherd versus English Springer Spaniel     Dutch Shepherd versus Kai Ken     Dutch Shepherd versus Papipoo     Dutch Shepherd versus Pomeranian     

    Conclusion: Cocker Spaniel versus Dutch Shepherd. Which One is a Better Pet?

    In summary, there is nothing like a better dog breed or a worse dog breed. The important question to ask is which dog breed better matches your interests and lifestyle. We hope our discussion above will help you in deciding which dog breed between the Cocker Spaniel and the Dutch Shepherd better suits you and your family.