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German Shorthaired Pointer vs American Cocker Spaniel Comparison. Which dog is better for you: DK or Merry Cocker?

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

Other names

Deutsch Kurzhaar, GSP, Kurzhaar, DK, Deutscher Kurzhaariger Vorstehhund
Merry Cocker, Cocker, Cocker Spaniel

Weight

What is the average weight of German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel?
62.5 pounds ( 28 kg )
28.5 pounds ( 13 kg )

Height

What is the average height of German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel
24.0 inches ( 61 cm )
14.5 inches ( 36.8 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: German Shorthaired Pointer or American Cocker Spaniel?

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

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

Hypoallergenic

Are German Shorthaired Pointers or American Cocker Spaniels hypoallergenic, or neither?

No

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

Temperament

What are the personalities of German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel dogs?
Affectionate
Bold
Intelligent
Boisterous
Cooperative
Trainable

Outright
Tempered
Merry
Intelligent
Trusting
Joyful
Outgoing
Sociable

Shedding Level

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

German Shorthaired Pointer or American Cocker Spaniel dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your German Shorthaired Pointer or American Cocker Spaniel. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.

Watchdog Ability

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

The German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, these breeds will alert their owner.

Origin

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

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel breeds?
german bird dog, spanish pointers, bloodhounds

English Cocker Spaniel

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel?
American Kennel Club
Canadian Kennel Club
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
Australian National Kennel Council
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry

Date of Birth

When were German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel breeds first developed?
1600s

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel?
Working (AKC:1930)
Gun Dog (UKC)

Sporting (AKC:1878)
Gun Dog (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

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

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel?
Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel breeds?
Brown
Black
White
Pied

Black
Brown
Red
Cream
Brindle
Sable
White
Silver
Blue

Coat Length

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

The coat of German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel dogs falls in the medium-length category.

Coat Density

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

Coat Texture

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

Wavy

Litter Size

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

12-14 puppies per pregnancy

A German Shorthaired Pointer can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

An American Cocker Spaniel can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

German Shorthaired Pointers are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

American Cocker Spaniels are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

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

The German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel breeds are commonly healthy with low vet costs, regular check-ups may not be as necessary but it's important to keep an eye on their health and have them checked by a veterinarian when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel breeds?
Hip Dysplasia

Cataracts
Retinal Dysplasia
Seborrhea
Skin Problems

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel?
Entropion
Cherry Eye
Progressive Retinal Atrophy
Cataracts
Hemivertebrae
Subvalvular Aortic Stenosis
Von Willebrand's Disease
Acral Mutation Syndrome
Lupoid Dermatitis

Entropion
Ectropion
Corneal Erosion
Phosphofructokinase Deficiency
Skin Fold Dermatitis

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel breeds?
Cardiac
Eye
Hip
Dna Test For Vwd
(Blood)
Skeletal
Skin Scraping

Eye
Hip
Blood
Knee
Dna For Phosphofructokinase Deficiency

Energy

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

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

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

Social Needs

German Shorthaired Pointer vs American Cocker Spaniel social needs comparison

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

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

Exercise Needed

German Shorthaired Pointer vs American Cocker Spaniel exercise need comparison.

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

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

Sleeping Need

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

German Shorthaired Pointers are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

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

Drooling Tendency

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

German Shorthaired Pointer has low drooling tendency, suitable for those who dislike drool marks.

American Cocker Spaniel minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Tendency to Bark

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

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

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

Territorial

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

German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel breeds are generally not considered the best guard dogs as their primary trait is not defense. Although they possess the capability to defend their territory or owners, it may not be their strongest trait.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: German Shorthaired Pointer vs American Cocker Spaniel?

Roaming urge

German Shorthaired Pointer vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

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

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel entertained?
Car rides, Running, Playing fetch, Sniffing, Swimming, Walk, Run, Walking, Kisses, Walki, Hunt, Shake, Tracking, Play, Playdate, Play keep away, Fetch, Escaping, Hike, Swim, Nap, Camp, Backpack, Train, Travel

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

Activity Level

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

High

German Shorthaired 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.

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.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

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

14 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For German Shorthaired Pointer, it's at least 14 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

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.

Activity per Day

Do German Shorthaired Pointers or American Cocker Spaniels require more exercise?

90 minutes

In general most German Shorthaired Pointers usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

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.

Grooming

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

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

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

Brushing Frequency

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

Weekly

German Shorthaired 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

Daily

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

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for German Shorthaired Pointers and American Cocker Spaniels?
Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Dematter
Nail Clipper

Cups

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

2.8 cups

For an average 55-70 pound (25 - 32 kg) German Shorthaired Pointer feed 2.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

2.5 cups

For an average 25-30 pound (11 - 14 kg) American Cocker Spaniel feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

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

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

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

$2.50 - $3.20 / day

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

Monthly Cost

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

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a German Shorthaired 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.

$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.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: German Shorthaired Pointers vs American Cocker Spaniels

The German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel breeds are considered very intelligent and easy to train.

Sensitivity Level

How do German Shorthaired Pointer and American Cocker Spaniel compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

American Cocker Spaniels have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

Affection Dependance

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

Apartment Friendly

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

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

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

Child Friendly

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

German Shorthaired Pointers are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

American Cocker Spaniels make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Senior-friendly

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

Cat Friendly

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

German Shorthaired Pointers are not cat friendly.

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

Dog Friendly

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

German Shorthaired Pointers and American Cocker Spaniels are friendly, active and loyal companions. They generally love to be around other dogs, making them a good family pet for some.

Pet friendly

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

Stranger Friendly

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

German Shorthaired Pointers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

American Cocker Spaniels are highly friendly around strangers.

Playfulness

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

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

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

Trainability

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

The German Shorthaired 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.

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

Common match-ups