vs

Click on the breeds above to change the breed you want to compare.

Compare Cocker Spaniel and Irish Setter side by side: temperament, energy, trainability, apartment fit, shedding, lifespan, weight and free adoption listings.

Breed traits

Character & behavior

Energy level
Playfulness
Intelligence
Trainability
Protectiveness
Sociability
Can stay alone

Lifestyle fit

Apartment-friendly
Yes
No
Good with kids
Yes
Yes
Good for first-time owners
Yes
Yes
Shedding
Noise level
Exercise needs

Physical & general

Life span
12–15 years
12–15 years
Weight
11–13.5 kg
25–32 kg
Height
38–41 cm
61–69 cm
Origin
England
Ireland
Grooming effort
Nutrition sensitivity
Health risk
Heat tolerance
Cold tolerance
The Cocker Spaniel and the Irish Setter are both beloved breeds known for their friendly nature and compatibility with families. The Cocker Spaniel, originating from England, is a smaller breed with a height range of 38-41 cm and a weight of 11-13.5 kg. They are known for their sociability and make excellent companions, especially for first-time owners. In contrast, the Irish Setter, hailing from Ireland, is a larger breed, standing at 61-69 cm and weighing between 25-32 kg. This breed is more energetic and requires more exercise, making them better suited for active families. Both breeds share a similar lifespan of 12-15 years and are generally good with children, but their living requirements and energy levels differ significantly.

Cocker Spaniel — Advantages

Apartment friendly
Good with kids
Great for first-time owners
Moderate exercise needs
Sociable and friendly nature

Disadvantages

Can struggle to stay alone
Moderate shedding
Noise level can be moderate

Irish Setter — Advantages

High energy level
Very playful
Good with kids
Great for active families
Sociable and friendly nature

Disadvantages

Not apartment friendly
Higher exercise needs
Can struggle to stay alone
Lower tolerance to cold climates

Frequently Asked Questions

Which breed is better for apartment living?

The Cocker Spaniel is more apartment friendly compared to the Irish Setter.

Are both breeds good with children?

Yes, both the Cocker Spaniel and Irish Setter are good with kids.

How much exercise do these breeds need?

Cocker Spaniels need moderate exercise, while Irish Setters require a higher level of activity.

Which breed is easier for first-time dog owners?

Both breeds are considered good for first-time owners.

Do either of these breeds have high grooming needs?

Both breeds have a moderate grooming difficulty level.

free Cocker Spaniel adoption listings

all listings in this category

free Irish Setter adoption listings

all listings in this category