How Big Do Cocker Spaniels Get?

Cocker Spaniels are lively and sweet-natured dogs, which tend to make them perfect canine companions. These medium sized dogs generally come in two ‘different’ types: Show Cockers and working Cockers. 

In general, a Cocker Spaniel will weigh anything between 14 to 20 kg, and can be anywhere between 12 to 16 inches in height. Like most dog breeds, females tend to be smaller than males, but it’s not always the case.

In terms of the different types of Cockers, working Cockers tend to be smaller and more compact than their show Cocker counterparts. 

Of course, the size of Cocker Spaniel can be different depending on different factors. One of the most common questions which centers around their size is to do with which breed of Cocker a dog is. 

In this guide we’re going to look at the difference in size between the two Cocker Spaniel breeds, and answer some of the more frequently asked questions regarding their size. 

Are American Cocker Spaniels Or English Cocker Spaniels Bigger? 

As most dog lovers know, the Cocker Spaniel is recognised as two different breeds, These are the American Cocker and the English Cocker. 

These breeds are very similar, but the American Cockers look pretty similar to American Boykin Spaniels. English Cockers also tend to have longer faces. 

In terms of size differences between the two breeds, English Cocker Spaniels are generally larger than American Cockers. However, working English Cockers tend to be smaller than their American counterparts. 

In general, working Spaniels tend to be smaller than show bred Spaniels. With that being said, show English Cockers are pretty similar in size to Springer Spaniels, but working English Cockers tend to be smaller than American Cockers. 

Although this can be pretty confusing, English Cockers are usually classed as bigger than American Cockers. However, there can be a lot of variance in size and shape, and this can come down to breeding and genetics. 

How Big Can Working English Cocker Spaniels Get? 

Working Cocker Spaniels are classified as medium sized and well balanced dogs. In terms of breed standard, males are averaged between 15.5 and 16 inches tall.

Females are averaged at 15 to 15.5 inches. Both males and females weigh approximately 13 to 14.5 kilograms. 

At What Age Is A Cocker Spaniel Fully Grown? 

Like most dogs, Cocker Spaniels are fully grown by the time that they are around 12 to 18 months old. 

Dogs tend to grow and mature quickly, as it is a genetic trait which is based around survival needs. Most domesticated dogs are mature by the time they have reached 18 months.

In general, most smaller breeds mature more quickly than larger dogs. Cocker Spaniels will be fully grown anytime up to 18 months. 

What Weight Is A Fully Grown Cocker Spaniel? 

Although most Cocker Spaniels reach their full height somewhere between 12 to 18 months, they usually continue to gain weight till around 24 months. 

It’s worth noting that Cocker Spaniels are very energetic dogs, and they have a lot of stamina. Because of this, it’s very important that they get a lot of regular exercise.

This doesn’t just mean playing around in the house or garden. 

Cocker Spaniels need long walks, and open spaces in which they can run around in. If they don’t get enough exercise, like most dogs they will gain weight.

With that being said, as Cocker Spaniels are medium sized dogs, even after a few gained pounds they can look quite bulky. The same goes with Cockers who have lost a few pounds, as they will look quite skinny. 

It’s important that you make sure your Cocker Spaniel is eating the right amount of food and getting enough exercise so that they can remain a healthy weight. 

Are Show Cocker Spaniels Bigger Than Working Cocker Spaniels? 

Show Spaniels – of any breed – tend to be larger than working Spaniels. This is because show Cockers are usually bred for appearance and ability to conform to the ‘breed standards.’ 

Show Cockers also tend to have much more exaggerated features. These include longer ears, longer snouts, and much longer hair.

In contrast, working Cockers are often smaller, more compact, and powerful than their show counterparts.

If you compare a show Cocker Spaniel to a working Cocker Spaniel, you may even think that they’re not even the same breed. 

Is A Cocker Spaniel A Small Or Medium Sized Dog? 

Some people can get confused about the size classification of a Cocker Spaniel. However, both show and working, English and American Cocker Spaniels are classed as medium sized dogs.

Because of their size, Cocker Spaniels tend to make great family pets. They are also very loyal, intelligent, friendly, and energetic. 

However, if you are in the market for a small Spaniel breed, you could consider Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. This breed has a lot of the same personality and qualities of a Cocker Spaniel, except they are a fraction of the size. 

What Is The Lifespan Of A Cocker Spaniel? 

In general, Cocker Spaniels have an average lifespan of around 12-15 years old. However, like a lot of other purebred dogs, they are prone to developing a lot of common health conditions. 

Some of the health conditions that affect Cockers the most include: 

• Ear infections
• Eye problems
• Heart disease 
• Pancreatitis
• Hip dysplasia 

Final Thoughts 

Cocker Spaniels can come in a variety of different sizes depending on the ‘type’ of Cocker Spaniel you have. This can differ between breeds – English Cockers and American Cockers – and whether they are a working Cocker or Show Cocker.

Their size can also be pretty dependent on their breeding and genetics, just like most dogs. If you are looking to get a Cocker Spaniel from a trusted breeder, you can look at a puppy’s parents to give you a sense of how big your Cocker may get. 

With all things considered, Cocker Spaniels are generally considered to be medium sized dogs, and they usually grow around knee height. Because of their size, and energetic nature, they make the perfect family companion.