Side by side
Put a few breeds side by side before you make up your mind.
Pick up to four. The URL updates as you go, so you can send this comparison to whoever you are arguing with.
| Breed |  Labradoodle |  English Cocker Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Australia | United Kingdom |
| Group | Crossbreed | Gundog |
| Size | Medium to Large | Medium |
| Coat | Wavy to curly, variable in density and shedding depending on parentage | Silky, flat or slightly wavy coat with feathering |
| Weight | 15 to 30 kg | 12 to 16 kg |
| Height | 45 to 63 cm | 38 to 43 cm |
| Lifespan | 12 to 14 yrs | 12 to 14 yrs |
| Exercise need | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Affection | 9/10 | 9/10 |
| Grooming needs | 7/10 | 6/10 |
| Barking | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Good with children | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Good with other dogs | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Trainability | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Prey drive | 4/10 | 6/10 |
| Copes alone | 4/10 | 3/10 |
| Drool | 2/10 | 2/10 |
| Shedding | 3/10 | 5/10 |
| Flat fit | 3/10 | 5/10 |
| Running cost | €209 / month | €192 / month |
Labradoodle verdict
A Labrador and Poodle cross that is usually bigger, bouncier and more energetic than people expect, with coat and size that vary by line.
Get one if
- · Active families and individuals able to provide an hour or more of exercise daily
- · Owners wanting a friendly, clever dog that trains well with consistent positive methods
- · Households realistic that size, coat and allergy friendliness vary between lines
Think again if
- · Owners wanting a small, low energy companion
- · Anyone unable to commit to an hour or more of varied exercise most days
- · Allergy sufferers relying on the breed's reputation alone rather than testing their own reaction
English Cocker Spaniel verdict
A merry, affectionate gundog with a soft, silky coat and a nose that never switches off.
Get one if
- · Active families who enjoy daily walks
- · Owners keen on scent work or gundog training
- · Households able to provide company for most of the day
Think again if
- · Owners who need to leave a dog alone for long hours
- · Households unwilling to manage a moderate grooming routine
- · Owners wanting a naturally calm, low energy dog