Let's Compare Spaniels!
American Brittanys, English Springers, and English Cocker Spaniels
We have discovered that when our clients are looking to adopt a puppy that they drift back and forth between Brittanys, Springers, and Cockers. We love that we have all three which gives us an unique opportunity to do a side by side comparison. Obviously we love all three breeds but we understand that each person is looking at a specific set of factors when choosing a puppy. Let's look at the similarities and differences of Brittanys, Springers, and Cockers.
Brittanys, Springers, and Cockers are highly intelligent and eager to please which makes them incredibly easy to train. These dogs are exceptional hunting dogs. All three breeds make wonderful companions and do well with children and other animals. These breeds are not lacking in personality or skills.
They do have some differences in appearance and what they are primarily trained to do according to breed. Size can be a big factor when choosing a puppy. Springers generally are 19 - 20 inches tall. Brittanys are 17.5 - 20.5 inches tall. Cockers are 15-17 inches tall. These breeds almost stairstep in height. Springers weigh between 40 - 50 lbs. Brittanys weigh between 30 - 40 lbs. Cockers weigh between 26 - 34 lbs. Springers have moderately long fur and longer ears. Brittanys have a more dense and flat fur and shorter ears. Cockers have a medium-length coat. If you are looking for a hunting buddy then one thing to consider is what role will this puppy be playing. Springers are traditionally used for flushing and retrieving game. Brittanys point on game and willingly retrieve both on land and in the water. Cockers are famous around the world for flushing and retrieving gamebirds.
You really can't go wrong with any of these Spaniels. Brittanys, Springers, and Cockers are a nice fit for those seeking an all-purpose hunting partner, a dog-sport teammate, or a companion in sync with an upbeat, outdoorsy family life.
American Brittany Spaniels
Life with Brittany Spaniels is never dull. This breed is smart, active, agile and relatively easy to train. For an active home with room for an active companion, you can’t do much better than the Brittany, a moderately sized dog with relatively few health or temperament problems. This dog can hunt, if that’s what you’re into, but for most people, the appeal is that the Brittany is athletic, bright and family-oriented.
If you want a dog that will do anything you want to do as long as it’s active, this is a great dog for you. His wash-and-wear coat can be kept in shape with a weekly brushing to keep shedding under control, and he's typically friendly with other dogs, cats, and children.
But make no mistake: this is not a couch-potato puppy: The Brittany is a canine overachiever and needs daily, heart-thumping exercise to keep his high spirits from bounding off.
That work doesn't need to be hunting, although the Brittany does remain very popular among people who value a good bird dog. The Brittany does well in all kinds of canine sports, including agility, flyball and obedience and will be an active participant in any human-centered activity as well, from running and hiking to playing fetch with the kids.
English Springer Spaniels
English Springer Spaniels are intelligent dogs with a great zest for life. They are full of energy and enjoy spending time with people of all ages. Built for hunting, English Springers still enjoy working in the field, but will also have fun tracking and stalking birds in the backyard. They can be a bit messy, tracking dirt and water throughout the house, but their smiling faces and constantly wagging tails makes staying mad at a Springer nearly impossible. They get along well with other household pets. English Springer Spaniels make excellent pets.
English Springer Spaniels are relatively easy to train. They are smart and possess a strong desire to please.
Springers enjoy long walks, jogs, hikes, and some enjoy the occasional dip in the water. Kids willing to spend an afternoon playing with a Springer can expect a best friend for life.
English Cocker Spaniels
English Cocker Spaniels are one of the most well known breeds in the world. They are often referred to as the "Merry Spaniel". Cockers might be smaller in size but they are still a huge part of the sporting dog class and love an active lifestyle. Their smaller size makes them the perfect travel buddy. They easily fit into a large range of lifestyles because not only their size but also their friendly demeanor.
English Cocker Spaniels are eager to please and very intelligent. With investing a little time in training, you can have them trained to do just about anything you could want. As a world famous birddog, they love to follow their nose.
Cockers absolutely love to swim, hike, play fetch, or just cuddle with you on the couch. They make a great addition to any family that enjoys camping or trips to the lake. Kids would love to throw a ball off the dock and watch as the cocker dives right in to retrieve the ball. These beautiful, happy Spaniels are always an excellent choice for any family.
