English Cocker Spaniel vs American Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
77% Compatible
Energy Level
English Cocker Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
American Water Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
English Cocker Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
American Water Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
English Cocker Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
American Water Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
English Cocker Spaniel5/5
American Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
English Cocker Spaniel5/5
American Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
English Cocker Spaniel4/5
American Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
English Cocker Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
PSOM: Middle ear disease
Kidney Disease: Renal function issues
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
American Water Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Cardiac Issues: Heart murmurs common
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Ear Infections: Due to water exposure
Pattern Baldness: Hereditary condition
Pros & Cons Comparison
English Cocker Spaniel
Pros
Affectionate family companion
Excellent with children
Highly trainable
Moderate size
Good sporting abilities
Cons
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Needs consistent exercise
Potential health issues
Separation anxiety prone
American Water Spaniel
Pros
Excellent water retrievers
Versatile hunting companions
Good family dogs
Moderate size
Smart and trainable
Cons
Requires regular grooming
Can be stubborn
Needs lots of exercise
May be reserved with strangers
English Cocker Spaniel Fun Fact
Their characteristic 'merry' tail action while working gave rise to their nickname as the 'merry cocker.'
American Water Spaniel Fun Fact
One of the few dog breeds developed in America specifically for hunting from small boats in rough water.
Heritage & Purpose
English Cocker Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1800s for hunting woodcock and other game birds, these skilled retrievers excelled at flushing and retrieving game in dense undergrowth.
American Water Spaniel
Origin: United States
Developed in the Great Lakes region during the 19th century, these dogs excelled at waterfowl hunting in challenging conditions. Their compact size suited them for small fishing boats.
Special Considerations
English Cocker Spaniel
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat condition. Requires consistent exercise routine. Ear cleaning and monitoring essential due to breed's susceptibility to infections.
American Water Spaniel
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat condition. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Prone to ear infections due to water activities.