American Cocker Spaniel vs Pointer Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Cocker or English Pointer?

Compare the American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Cocker or a English Pointer? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Merry Cocker, Cocker, Cocker Spaniel

English Pointer

Weight

What is the average weight of American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer?

28.5 pounds ( 13 kg )

60.0 pounds ( 27 kg )

Height

What is the average height of American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer

14.5 inches ( 36.8 cm )

23.0 inches ( 58.4 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: American Cocker Spaniel or Pointer?

American Cocker Spaniel has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

Pointer has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are American Cocker Spaniels or Pointers hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither American Cocker Spaniel nor Pointer are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer dogs?

Outright
Tempered
Merry
Intelligent
Trusting
Joyful
Outgoing
Sociable

Active
Amiable
Kind
Intelligent
Affectionate
Outright
Tempered
Loyal

Shedding Level

Do American Cocker Spaniels shed more than Pointers, or which breed sheds more, American Cocker Spaniels or Pointers?

American Cocker Spaniels are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Pointers shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the American Cocker Spaniel or Pointer?

American Cocker Spaniels are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

Pointers make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Origin

What is the origin of American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer dog breeds?

United States

England

Ancestry

What are the origins of American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer breeds?

English Cocker Spaniel

Pointer, Hound, Newfoundland Dog, Setter, Bulldog

Date of Birth

When were American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer breeds first developed?

1800s

1600s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer?

Sporting (AKC:1878)
Gun Dog (UKC)

Sporting (AKC:1884)
Gun Dogs (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer dogs?

Brown

Hazel
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer?

Black
Brown

Black
Brown
Isabella

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer breeds?

Black
Brown
Red
Cream
Brindle
Sable
White
Silver
Blue

Black
Brown
White
Isabella

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer breeds?

American Cocker Spaniels have medium-length coats.

Pointers have short coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer?

Wavy

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer?

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer, can have a litter of 12-15 puppies each on average. Nonetheless, it's important to keep in mind that litter size can differ significantly between individual dogs. Various factors such as the mother's health, breeding history, and genetics can have an impact on litter size.

Adaptability

American Cocker Spaniel and Pointers are known for their adaptability and versatility. They are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments, making them great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer, which breed is more prone to health problems?

American Cocker Spaniels typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

The Pointer is prone to health issues and requires regular check-ups with a vet to identify and treat any problems early.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer breeds?

Cataracts
Retinal Dysplasia
Seborrhea
Skin Problems

Hip Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer?

Entropion
Ectropion
Corneal Erosion
Phosphofructokinase Deficiency
Skin Fold Dermatitis

Bloat
Congenital Heart Defect
Eye Conditions

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer breeds?

Eye
Hip
Blood
Knee
Dna For Phosphofructokinase Deficiency

Cardiac
Hip
Heart
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of American Cocker Spaniels and Pointers compare?

American Cocker Spaniels' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Pointers thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Social Needs

American Cocker Spaniel vs Pointer social needs comparison

American Cocker Spaniel has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Pointer has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Exercise Needed

American Cocker Spaniel vs Pointer exercise need comparison.

American Cocker Spaniels require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Pointers need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: American Cocker Spaniel or Pointer?

American Cocker Spaniels sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Pointers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, American Cocker Spaniel or Pointer?

The American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer breeds are known for their low drooling tendencies, making them a suitable choice for people who don't want to deal with drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do American Cocker Spaniels or Pointers bark more/less frequently?

The American Cocker Spaniel is a vocal breed that frequently barks and howls, and may not be suitable for those seeking a quiet companion.

Pointers bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Territorial

Is the American Cocker Spaniel or Pointer a better guard dog?

While American Cocker Spaniel dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

Pointer dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: American Cocker Spaniel vs Pointer?

Roaming urge

American Cocker Spaniel vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

American Cocker Spaniel or Pointer - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer entertained?

Walking, Petting, Sniffing, Fetch, Nap, Cuddling, Running, Play keep away, Walk, Short walks, Sleeping, Sitting, Exploring, Eating Snacks, Nose work, Go to Park, Run, Hike, Chase, Tracking, Snuggling, Chatting, Grooming, Napping, Belly rubs

Walking, Play, Sniffing, Other dogs, Walk, Run, Running, Marking

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, American Cocker Spaniels or Pointers?

Medium

American Cocker Spaniels are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

High

Pointers are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should American Cocker Spaniel or Pointer walk each week?

8 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For American Cocker Spaniel, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

12 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Pointer, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do American Cocker Spaniels or Pointers require more exercise?

60 minutes

In general most American Cocker Spaniels usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

45 minutes

In general most Pointers usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, American Cocker Spaniels or Pointers?

American Cocker Spaniels have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

The Pointer is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer dogs?

Daily

Ideally, American Cocker Spaniel should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Weekly

Pointer should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for American Cocker Spaniels and Pointers?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Dematter
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to American Cocker Spaniel or Pointer in cups?

2.5 cups

American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer share the same recommended daily food intake of 2.5 cups, although the appropriate quantity may vary depending on the quality and nutritional content of their food.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, American Cocker Spaniel or Pointer?

$2.50 - $3.20 / day

The average cost of an American Cocker Spaniel is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a Pointer is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, American Cocker Spaniel or Pointer?

$74 - $95 / month

The average per month expenses of an American Cocker Spaniel is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Pointer is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: American Cocker Spaniels vs Pointers

American Cocker Spaniel is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Pointers are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Sensitivity Level

How do American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer compare in sensitivity?

American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer dogs have average emotions and are adaptable to different situations, not requiring extra care like sensitive breeds do.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: American Cocker Spaniel vs Pointer?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: American Cocker Spaniel or Pointer?

American Cocker Spaniels make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

The Pointer is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

Child Friendly

Do American Cocker Spaniels or Pointers have a friendlier temperament towards children?

The typical characteristics of American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - American Cocker Spaniel or Pointer?

Cat Friendly

Do American Cocker Spaniel or Pointer breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

American Cocker Spaniels are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Pointers are not cat friendly.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: American Cocker Spaniel or Pointer?

American Cocker Spaniels are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pointers are generally very friendly towards other dogs, with a happy and affectionate temperament.

Pet friendly

How do American Cocker Spaniel or Pointer dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: American Cocker Spaniel or Pointer?

American Cocker Spaniels are highly friendly around strangers.

Pointers are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between American Cocker Spaniel and Pointer?

American Cocker Spaniels are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Pointers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of American Cocker Spaniels and Pointers compare?

American Cocker Spaniels are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

The Pointer is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.