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The Daily Insight

What is the difference between Cocker Spaniel and working cocker?

Author

Caleb Butler

Updated on April 02, 2026

One of the differences is show Cockers are usually more laid back and love human affection, whereas Working Cockers have such drive and could happily be out all day, and in my experience despite them being the perfect family pet, Working cockers prefer to stretch out by themselves rather than snuggle up on your lap.

What should a working cocker look like?

Working Cockers tend to have flatter skulls and higher set, shorter ears compared to the show type dog with his more domed skull and long, lower set ears. Another big physical difference is in the coat.

Is a working cocker spaniel a small dog?

They’re a great size Spaniels do vary in size but both Sev and Lily are under 13kg and the breed is known to be in the medium-sized breed category. They’re easy to fit under tables, carry on the underground or sit on your lap on the bus. Not only this, but they have a very big personality! No small dog syndrome here.

Is a field spaniel the same as a working cocker?

Although similar in appearance the Field spaniel is not the same as a working Cocker spaniel. The Field Spaniel is a specific breed of spaniel that is larger and heavier than the Cocker and can often be a similar size to an English Springer Spaniel.

Do working cocker spaniels bite?

Cocker spaniels can be mouthy dogs, who are sometimes prone to nipping or biting, especially when stressed. However, if you have missed this opportunity, even adult dogs can often be rehabilitated with some patience and know-how.

Can working cocker spaniels be left alone?

Cocker Spaniels are known for suffering with separation anxiety, so it’s best to have someone with them during the day. It’s important that your Cocker is never left alone for more than four hours, but even this may be too much for your dog to handle.

Are working cocker Spaniels cuddly?

Cocker spaniels are affectionate dogs that enjoy spending time with their owners and their families. Cockers have an excellent personality and are an ideal breed of dog for someone looking for a pet that enjoys company, is good with children and likes to be fussed. Yes, Cocker spaniels like to cuddle.

Can working cocker Spaniels be left alone?

Are working cocker spaniels cuddly?

Are working cockers intelligent?

Cocker Spaniels are incredibly smart dogs. For obedience and working intelligence, the English Cocker Spaniel is the 20th smartest dog breed. They are easy to train, which means that owners should have no problem at all teaching them new commands. A working breed, Cocker Spaniels love learning new skills.

What do I need to know about working cocker Spaniels?

Cocker Spaniels are lively dogs and suit fairly active families with plenty of time for playing. They’re clever dogs who love to please and so can be easy to train in the right hands. They’re known for being friendly if properly socialised with other dogs and people.

How much is a Field Spaniel puppy?

How much does a Field Spaniel puppy cost? The average cost of a Field Spaniel puppy is between $1,800-$2,800. There is usually no price break between pet, show & performance dogs as being labeled as one or the other does not increase nor decrease the quality of the puppy.

How do you train a cocker spaniel puppy?

To potty train a cocker spaniel, choose an outdoor spot for your dog to go to the bathroom, and take the dog to that spot every time you take it outside. Use a verbal command, like “Potty,” and wait patiently until the dog goes to the bathroom.

What breed of dog is a cocker spaniel?

Cocker Spaniels are dogs belonging to two breeds of the spaniel dog type: the American Cocker Spaniel and the English Cocker Spaniel, both of which are commonly called simply Cocker Spaniel in their countries of origin. In the early 20th century, Cocker Spaniels also included small hunting spaniels.

What is a working Spaniel?

The working cocker spaniel is a spirited, enthusiastic and active little dog, with boundless energy, a desire to please and a need to work. They have a very high work drive and are completely different in looks and temperament to the show cocker, who is less muscley, longer in the ear and nose, slightly larger and with a long bushy tail.

What are the different types of cocker spaniels?

Color(s): Cocker Spaniels are divided into many different color categories: Black, ASCOB (any solid color other than black), Buff (very light tan), Brown, Parti color, Tricolor (black and white with tan points), Roan , Sable , and Merle.