Corgi vs. Cocker Spaniel: Which Breed Is Right For You?
It’s not easy choosing between two adorable doggos, take it from me. This time we’re looking at the Corgi vs. the Cocker Spaniel to help you decide which breed is right for you.
Corgis and Cocker Spaniels are both affectionate, playful, and energetic dogs that are eager to please. The major difference between them is their grooming needs. While Corgis shed more, Cocker Spaniels require more regular grooming, combing and washing.
In this article, we’ll give you a complete breakdown of the difference between Corgis and Cocker Spaniels so you’ll know exactly what you’re signing up for.
Similarities between Corgis and Cocker Spaniels
These two dog breeds have a lot in common.
They’re both similar sizes, have a tendency to bark and love human companionship. They’re also very intelligent, which makes them easier to train than many other dogs.
Differences between Corgis and Cocker Spaniels
The only real difference between Corgis and Cocker Spaniels is how they’re groomed. Corgis are heavier shedders, but this can be managed with a good brush a few times a week.
Cocker Spaniels, on the other hand, require a slightly more complex grooming process that we explain in more detail below. Grooming must be regular and thorough to avoid tangled hair. Frequent baths are also a must.
Corgi vs. Cocker Spaniel: Training
Fortunately, both dog breeds are pretty equal when it comes to their training needs. Because they’re highly intelligent dogs that are also willing to please, they respond well to consistent training, be it potty training, crate training, obedience, etc.
Start with 30 minutes of positive reinforcement training each day, and you’ll get yourself a disciplined doggo in no time.
Bear in mind that it’s best to start training as soon as you bring your puppy home, as pups absorb a lot of information at a young age.
Corgi vs. Cocker Spaniel: Energy
Corgis are known for their high energy levels and love of playtime. So, make sure you have a suitable exercise schedule for your corgi (at least 60 minutes each day) and don’t forget about mental stimulation, too. Puzzle toys and games are perfect for this.
When it comes to Cocker Spaniels, you’ll find that their energy levels are similar. A walk every day along with half an hour or an hour of mental stimulation should be enough of a workout for this cute doggo!
Corgi vs. Cocker Spaniel: Shedding
While Corgis are medium-to-heavy shedders, their coat is easy to take care of because it’s shorter than that of Cocker Spaniels.
They only need regular brushing to get rid of matting and dead hair. You should also bathe them on occasion to keep them clean.
On the contrary, Cocker Spaniels are a lot more high maintenance regarding their coat care. They require more frequent hair brushing with a professional-grade metal comb to reduce tangles.
If you don’t brush those knots free regularly, it’ll be extra hard to get rid of them in the future. With Cocker Spaniel grooming, a consistent schedule is key to a shiny and healthy coat.
Even the way you bathe a Cocker Spaniel requires some work; this dog needs to use high-quality shampoo. Rinsing should be thorough, too, as you don’t want any shampoo residue to cause irritations on your dog’s skin.
Some dog owners prefer to leave the grooming of their Cocker Spaniels to the experts since it’s so demanding. If you choose to do so, just make sure that the groomer has experience with this specific dog breed to be certain that your Spaniel gets the best care.
Corgi vs. Cocker Spaniel: Barking
Both Corgis and Cocker Spaniels have barking tendencies, but Cocker Spaniels may just beat Corgis in this regard!
Spaniels have a built-in alarm system, so barking is their natural response to anything that gets their attention. It could be the delivery guy, a squirrel on a nearby tree, or simply any moving object in their field of view.
Corgis usually bark or howl if something changes in their surroundings, too, or if they get really excited. However, they’re not quite as vocal as Cocker Spaniels.
Corgi vs. Cocker Spaniel: Health
While Cocker Spaniels are generally a very healthy breed, there are a few potential conditions to be aware of. Due to their long ears, bacterial or yeast infections are more likely to occur. To minimize this risk of this, keep their ears clean and watch out for any unusual signs like discharge.
Another health issue common in Cocker Spaniels is luxating patella. This is caused by dislocation of the kneecap and in most mild cases, the kneecap will pop back into its socket without any need for physical therapy or surgery. Hip dysplasia and hereditary eye disorders are two other conditions to be aware of.
Corgis are also prone to hip dysplasia due to their long backs and short legs. Other hereditary health conditions include degenerative myelopathy and Intervertebral Disc Disease.
Corgi vs. Cocker Spaniel: How Long Can They Be Left Alone?
Neither Corgis nor Cocker Spaniels do well being left alone frequently or for long periods of time. This is because they’re both very affectionate dogs that love human companionship.
With crate training (as a puppy) and plenty of exercise beforehand to tire them out, Corgis and Spaniels can be left for 6-8 hours on their own. However, I strongly advise against doing this regularly. This is more likely to cause separation anxiety and behavioral problems like chewing, barking or aggression.
If you work from an office that doesn’t allow dogs, I recommend hiring a dog walker to pop in a couple of times during the day. Or, drop your dog off at your local doggy daycare.
Corgi vs. Cocker Spaniel: Which Is Better for a First-Time Owner?
Cocker Spaniels are awesome dogs for first-time owners because of their gentle and loving nature. They get on really well with children and animals alike.
Likewise, Corgis are many novice dog parents’ first choice because they’re friendly, playful, and easy to take care of.
Both breeds are also easy to train, so this point may be a tie!
However, something that might set Cocker Spaniels back slightly is that they have specific grooming requirements, as already highlighted. Not all new pet parents are ready for this commitment, so keep that point in mind before settling on either dog.
Corgi vs. Cocker Spaniel: Animals and Children
Both Corgis and Cocker Spaniels get along with other dogs and pets in the same household. Since they have a pack mentality, they’re less likely than some other breeds to be aggressive or display alpha dog tendencies.
Still, it’s worth pointing out that Corgis are herding dogs, so you might find them herding other animals (or even your children) from time to time. During playtime, it’s best to supervise their interactions to keep that behavior from escalating.
Another important point to note is that Cocker Spaniels have a high chase drive. They might have a tendency to run after pet cats if you don’t introduce them the right way at an early age.
This also means that a Cocker Spaniel may chase small animals like squirrels if he encounters them on a walk or in your garden. That’s why a good leash and a fenced yard are a must with this dog breed!
Corgi vs. Cocker Spaniel: Are They Good in Apartments?
Both dogs are highly adaptable to different living conditions, so they do well in apartments. Just make sure to offer them a good amount of exercise each day as stimulation, and they should be fine living in a smaller space.
Corgi vs. Cocker Spaniel: Which Is More Expensive?
Corgis cost between $1,500 and $2,500, while Cocker Spaniels cost between $500 and $1,500.
