A Detailed Comparison of the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle.

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Cocker Spaniel Versus Goldendoodle: Introduction

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

Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle 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 Goldendoodle. The dog breed with the higher Better-Pet score is the `better` pet. We hope that these Better-Pet Scores will provide you with more insight into deciding which pet to get between the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle.

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 Goldendoodle.

Cocker Spaniel versus Goldendoodle

Cocker Spaniel versus Goldendoodle: Overview

A very important difference between the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle is the size difference between the two dog breeds. The Cocker Spaniel is a small-sized dog while the Goldendoodle is a large-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 Goldendoodle belongs to the Hybrid Dogs group. Hybrid Dogs are the offspring of 2 or more known, but different, dog breeds.

Cocker Spaniel versus Goldendoodle: Comparison Table

The table below compares the Cocker Spaniel to the Goldendoodle 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.

Later in this article, we will further explain each factor as it applies to the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle

Factor Cocker Spaniel Goldendoodle
Tolerates Being Alone 1/5 3/5
Does NOT Drool 5/5 5/5
Easy To Groom 1/5 4/5
Height 1 foot, 2 inches to 1 foot, 3 inches tall at the s 20 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder
Life Span 12 to 15 years 10 to 15 years
Calmness/ Low Vigor 4/5 3/5
Weight 24 to 28 pounds 50 to 90 pounds
Good For Novice Owners 3/5 4/5
Tolerates Hot Weather 3/5 3/5
Kid-Friendly 3/5 5/5
Friendly Toward Strangers 3/5 4/5
Does NOT Shed 3/5 4/5
Does NOT Bark or Howl 3/5 3/5
Minimal Exercise Needs 3/5 1/5
Tolerates Cold Weather 4/5 3/5
Dog Friendly 4/5 5/5
General Health 4/5 3/5
Potential NOT to Gain Weight 2/5 3/5
Intelligence 4/5 5/5
Does NOT chew on things 2/5 5/5
Tendency NOT to Wander 2/5 3/5
NOT Rambunctious 2/5 2/5
Potential For Playfulness 4/5 5/5
Adapts Well To Apartment Living 5/5 1/5
Easygoing 1/5 2/5
Affectionate With Family 5/5 5/5
Easy To Train 5/5 4/5
Low Prey Drive 1/5 5/5
Average Lifespan 13.5 years 12.5 years
Average Price $1760 $2170
Price Range $1200 – $2000 $1500 – $2500
Common Health Problems and Recommended Health Tests
  • Eye Examination
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • No Data

    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 Goldendoodle. 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 the Cocker Spaniel is 77 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the Goldendoodle is 90 out of 125.

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

    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 Goldendoodle so that you can make your own well-informed decision on which pet to get.

    Cocker Spaniel versus Goldendoodle

    The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle

    Below is a list of where the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle are most different:

  • Cocker Spaniels require a lot of grooming and are not very easy to groom. However, Goldendoodles are very easy to groom.
  • Cocker Spaniels are prone to nip and chew at things. However, Goldendoodles are not prone to nip and chew at things.
  • Cocker Spaniels adapt well to apartment living. However, Goldendoodles do not adapt well to apartment living.
  • Cocker Spaniels have a high prey drive. They do not get along well with other pets. However, Goldendoodles have a very low prey drive. This means they get along well with other pets.
  • The Similarities Between the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle

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

  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle do not have the tendency to drool.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle do the things they do with very low vigor. They are not forceful.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle can tolerate cold weather.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle get along well with other dogs.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle are very healthy. They do not suffer from a lot of health problems compared to other dog breeds
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle gain weight easily. You need to pay careful attention to what you feed them.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle are highly intelligent.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle have a high tendency to wander. They are easily distracted by other animals or objects.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle have very high energy levels. They need a lot of exercise time to release their high energy.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle are very playful.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle are easily disturbed by noise in their environments. They are sensitive to human tone. They will understand the tone of your voice when you try to correct their behaviors with a firm tone.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
  • Both the Cocker Spaniel and the Goldendoodle are very easy to train.
  • Size (Weight and Height) of Cocker Spaniel versus Goldendoodle

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

    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, Goldendoodles weigh 50 to 90 pounds when fully grown. Goldendoodles are 20 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown.

    Lifespan of Cocker Spaniel versus Goldendoodle

    The lifespan of Cocker Spaniels is between 12 to 15 years. The average lifespan of Cocker Spaniels is 13.5 years.

    The lifespan of Goldendoodles is between 10 to 15 years. The average lifespan of Goldendoodles is 12.5 years.

    Cocker Spaniels live longer than Goldendoodles.

    Cocker Spaniel versus Goldendoodle

    Price of Cocker Spaniel versus Price of Goldendoodle

    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 Goldendoodle puppy is $2170. The price of the Goldendoodle typically ranges from $1500 – $2500. However, the price of the Goldendoodle can be as low as $300 and as high as $32500. We obtained this price information by collecting and reviewing the prices of 4239 Goldendoodle puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The Goldendoodle is more expensive than the Cocker Spaniel.

    Cocker Spaniel Goldendoodle
    Average Price $1760 $2170
    Price Range $1200 to $2000 $1500 to $2500

    The charts below show the price distribution for the Cocker Spaniel and Goldendoodle. For different price points, the charts show how many Cocker Spaniel puppies or how many Goldendoodle 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 Goldendoodles?

    A breakdown of the prices of Goldendoodles?

    Note that a lot of factors determine how much you can expect to pay for the Cocker Spaniel puppy or the Goldendoodle 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 to buy 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 a puppy mill. Puppy mills 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 Goldendoodle

    Adopting the Cocker Spaniel versus Adopting the Goldendoodle

    You may consider adopting a dog instead of buying a puppy. Many Cocker Spaniels and many Goldendoodles 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 Zeppoli that is currently available for adoption on Petfinder.com. You can find other lovely adoptable Cocker Spaniels like Zeppoli on pefinder.com.

    Also, like Cocker Spaniels, Goldendoodles are also available for adoption. For example, Pie-Fl is a Male Goldendoodle that is currently available for adoption on petfinder.com. You can find more Goldendoodles like Pie-Fl that are up for adoption on petfinder.com.

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

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

    Also, Sarge is an adorable Male Goldendoodle on petfinder.com that you can adopt.

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

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

    Tolerates Being Alone: Cocker Spaniel versus Goldendoodle

    Cocker Spaniels do not like to be left alone.

    Goldendoodles can be left alone only for a short time.

    Do Cocker Spaniels shed more than Goldendoodles?

    Cocker Spaniels shed moderately.

    Goldendoodles do not shed a lot. They are good for people with dog allergies.

    Which one drools more, the Cocker Spaniel or the Goldendoodle

    Cocker Spaniels do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Goldendoodles do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Which is Easier to Groom, the Cocker Spaniel or the Goldendoodle?

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

    Goldendoodles are very easy to groom.

    Does the Cocker Spaniel Have a Higher Prey Drive than the Goldendoodle?

    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.

    Goldendoodles have a very low prey drive. This means they get won`t chase after smaller pets. They tend to get along well with other pets.

    Do Cocker Spaniels Bark and Howl? What about Goldendoodles?

    Cocker Spaniels bark and howl, but not very much.

    Goldendoodles bark and howl, but not very much.

    Can Cocker Spaniels Tolerate Cold Weather? And can Goldendoodles Tolerate Cold Weather?

    Cocker Spaniels can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Goldendoodles can moderately tolerate cold weather.

    Wanderlust Potential: Cocker Spaniel vs. Goldendoodle

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

    Goldendoodles have a moderate tendency to wander. This means that they sometimes get distracted by other animals or objects.

    Can Cocker Spaniels Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Goldendoodles Tolerate Hot Weather?

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

    Goldendoodles can tolerate hot weather as long as the weather is not too hot.

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

    Cocker Spaniels get along very well with other dogs.

    Goldendoodles get along very well with other dogs.

    Are Cocker Spaniels good family dogs? What about Goldendoodles?

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

    Goldendoodles are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    How Kid-friendly are Cocker Spaniels and Goldendoodles?

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

    Goldendoodles get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Is the Cocker Spaniel Easier to Train than the Goldendoodle?

    Cocker Spaniels are very easy to train.

    Goldendoodles are very easy to train.

    Is the Cocker Spaniel Better for Apartment Owners than the Goldendoodle?

    Cocker Spaniels adapt very well to apartment living.

    Goldendoodles do not adapt well to apartment living.

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

    Cocker Spaniels are OK for new dog owners.

    Goldendoodles are very good for new dog owners.

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

    Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Goldendoodle 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 Goldendoodle:

  • Labradoodle (78 percent match with Goldendoodle). Here is our comparison of the Cocker Spaniel vs Labradoodle.
  • French Spaniel (77 percent match with Goldendoodle). Here is our comparison of the Cocker Spaniel vs French Spaniel.
  • Other Breed Comparisons that Might Interest You

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

    Cocker Spaniel Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Cocker Spaniel versus Mountain Cur     Cocker Spaniel versus Tibetan Spaniel     Cocker Spaniel versus Carolina Dog     Cocker Spaniel versus Chihuahua     Cocker Spaniel versus Catahoula Bulldog     Cocker Spaniel versus Saint Bernard     Cocker Spaniel versus Goldador     Cocker Spaniel versus Greyhound     Cocker Spaniel versus Yorkipoo     Cocker Spaniel versus Akbash     Cocker Spaniel versus Harrier     Cocker Spaniel versus Lhasa Apso     Cocker Spaniel versus American Bulldog     Cocker Spaniel versus Brussels Griffon     Cocker Spaniel versus Australian Cattle Dog     Cocker Spaniel versus Goldendoodle     Cocker Spaniel versus Greater Swiss Mountain Dog     Cocker Spaniel versus Norwegian Lundehund     Cocker Spaniel versus Bergamasco Sheepdog     Cocker Spaniel versus Mudi     Cocker Spaniel versus Sheepadoodle     Cocker Spaniel versus Golden Cocker Retriever     Cocker Spaniel versus Australian Kelpie     Cocker Spaniel versus Cavachon     Cocker Spaniel versus Kai Ken     

    Goldendoodle Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Goldendoodle versus Boxerdoodle     Goldendoodle versus Estrela Mountain Dog     Goldendoodle versus French Bulldog     Goldendoodle versus Afghan Hound     Goldendoodle versus Fila Brasileiro     Goldendoodle versus Ibizan Hound     Goldendoodle versus Whippet     Goldendoodle versus English Cocker Spaniel     Goldendoodle versus Skye Terrier     Goldendoodle versus French Spaniel     Goldendoodle versus Italian Greyhound     Goldendoodle versus English Setter     Goldendoodle versus Norwegian Buhund     Goldendoodle versus Samoyed     Goldendoodle versus American Foxhound     Goldendoodle versus Doberman Pinscher     Goldendoodle versus Treeing Tennessee Brindle     Goldendoodle versus Alaskan Klee Kai     Goldendoodle versus Curly-Coated Retriever     Goldendoodle versus Bich Poo     Goldendoodle versus Sheepadoodle     Goldendoodle versus English Toy Spaniel     Goldendoodle versus Spanish Mastiff     Goldendoodle versus German Shorthaired Pointer     Goldendoodle versus Korean Jindo Dog     

    Conclusion: Cocker Spaniel versus Goldendoodle. 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 Goldendoodle better suits you and your family.