Cocker Spaniel vs Shetland Sheepdog: Breeds Comparison

Before getting a puppy, you should be sure that the breed you're doing to buy or rescue is a good fit for your lifestyle and home.

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While Cocker Spaniel is a member of the Sporting Group, Shetland Sheepdog belongs to the group of Herding Dogs.

Despite these breeds aren't members of the same breed groups, they have some similarities and not only differences so keep reading to learn more.

Cocker Spaniel vs Shetland Sheepdog Size Comparison

Both breeds are more or less similar in size. Cocker Spaniel typical height is 14 to 15 inches and weight is 24 to 28 pounds, while the typical height of Shetland Sheepdog is 13 to 16 inches and they usually weight starts at 20 pounds

We know that these numbers might be too abstract, so we made a tool to help you visualize these numbers.

The following chart compares the average breeds height with the average height of an American man and woman.

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data, the average height of a man is 69 inches, and the height of a woman is 63.5 inches.

Dog size comparison to a human. From left, average heights of Cocker Spaniel, Shetland Sheepdog, American female, and American male.

Cocker Spaniel vs Shetland Sheepdog lifespan

No doubt, the quality of care provided to the dog is one of the main factors when it comes to canines life longevity, however, there are also other factors, especially the dog's breed.

The life expectancy of Cocker Spaniel and Shetland Sheepdog is the same. Their usual lifespan is 12 to 15 years

Read on to the following sections to better understand in detail how Cocker Spaniel and Shetland Sheepdog compare and hopefully end up with enough arguments to decide which one is better for you.

Breed Name	Cocker Spaniel	Shetland Sheepdog
Traits
Breed Group	Sporting Dogs	Herding Dogs
Height	14 to 15 inches	13 to 16 inches
Weight	24 to 28 pounds	Starts at 20 pounds
Life Span	12 to 15 years	12 to 15 years

Cocker Spaniel vs Shetland Sheepdog adaptability

When we say "dog adaptability", most people think about apartment living adaptability, so let's start with that.

All dogs are great — but not all dogs are great for or geared toward apartment living. A dog may be considered the worst dog breed for apartments for a few reasons including size, energy level, noise, smell, shedding...

Cocker Spaniels have a better reputation as good apartment living dogs than Shetland Sheepdogs.

While most dogs can be left home alone for 6 to 8 hours, some will do better. Check the table below to see how Cocker Spaniels and Shetland Sheepdogs tolerate being left alone.

To learn more, read our list of dogs that can be left alone.

Hot weather tolerance

Depending on where you live, you should choose a dog that tolerates hot or cold weather well.

Speaking of Cocker Spaniel and Shetland Sheepdog, these breeds tolerate hot weather well, but you still need to be cautious when it's hot.

During warm weather, be sure to provide shade and water and head out in the morning or late evening when it's cooler. Also, avoid pavements - if the ground is too hot to touch for your hand for a few seconds, it's too hot for paws.

Check our heatstroke article on prevention and symptoms to learn more.

What about cold weather?

Cold temperatures are not a problem for most dogs until they fall below 45° F, at which point some cold-averse dogs might begin to feel uncomfortable. When temperatures fall below 32° F, owners of small breed dogs, dogs with thin coats, and/or very young, old, or sick dogs should pay close attention to their pet’s well-being.

Once temperatures drop under 20° F, all owners need to be aware that their dogs could potentially develop cold-associated health problems like hypothermia and frostbite.

Luckily, both breeds tolarate cold weather well, so while you stick to the rules mentioned above, they should be fine and probably enjoy the cold weather.

Our "How Cold Is Too Cold For Dogs?" article has more information on this topic.

Cocker Spaniel vs Shetland Sheepdog temperament

It's always hard to make a general statement about the whole breed's temperament. Each dog has a different temperament, and there are a lot of factors that affect its behavior.

Looking for a perfect family dog?

If you're looking for a companion dog, you won't go wrong with Cocker Spaniel and Shetland Sheepdog. Their outgoing and friendly personality makes them a great choice for families. Both are highly affectionate with family, they will immediately become a family member.

When it comes to behavior around children, Shetland Sheepdog simply tends to do better.

Cocker Spaniel will be fine with family, but proper training and socialization are required. On the other hand, Shetland Sheepdog has a reputation of a great family and companion dog.

We've created a list of the 15 best dogs for kids and family, so read it next if this is important for you.

Guarding behavior

Dog guarding behavior is welcome for some owners, while others prefer a dog that's friendly towards strangers.

Cocker Spaniel will be fine with family, but proper training and socialization are required. On the other hand, Shetland Sheepdog has a reputation of a great family and companion dog.

Health And Grooming Needs

The best way to optimize your pup’s health is to research reputable breeders, and then when you meet them ask to see the parents and their health certificates as described above and to see the conditions in which all the dogs are living.

Check the table below to see the general health rating for these two canines, and read full breed profile articles to read in-depth information on their health.

Also, some breeds are prone to obesity, which could cause other health conditions. Be sure to check that information as well, if the breed is prone to obesity, keep a close eye on labels and feed your dog according to the food labels.

For example, hip dysplasia is hereditary and is especially common in larger dogs. Factors such as excessive growth rate, types of exercise, and improper weight and nutrition can magnify this genetic predisposition.

What about shedding?

One of the bad parts of having a dog is definitely shedding. So be sure to take this into your consideration when choosing the right breed for you. Click here to learn how to minimize the shedding.

Cocker Spaniel is a full-fledged fur factory!

Shetland Sheepdog shed less than Cocker Spaniel do, but don't forget - preventing shedding is impossible, but regular brushing is necessary.

Recommended article: 30 Small Hypoallergenic Dogs That Don’t Shed.

Drooling potential?

Well, we have good news. These breeds have low drooling potential.

Cocker Spaniel vs Shetland Sheepdog trainability

Each dog needs some kind of obedience training, but some of them are easier to train, while others are more stubborn.

These breeds are relatively easy to train and they aren't very stubborn, but you have to be patient. persistence, and consistency play a huge role in successfully training your dog.

Do Cocker Spaniel and Shetland Sheepdog need a lot of physical activity?

To keep your dog healthy, calm, and happy, you have to provide it with enough physical activities. Not only your dog will be healthier and happier when it's active, but you'll also reduce or completely eliminate destructive behavior.

Some people don't think about this when selecting a breed, so we have dedicated a whole chapter to physical needs.

Cocker Spaniels have a medium level of exercise needs, while Shetland Sheepdogs require a high intensity of exercise.

Cocker Spaniel or Shetland Sheepdog: The bottom line

In this article, we tried to give you an idea of what you can expect from Cocker Spaniels and Shetland Sheepdogs.

To further explore their personality, overall health, temperament, and much more, read their full breed profile.

Or, use the tool below to read the next comparison.