American Cocker Spaniel vs. Saint Shepherd: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are American Cocker Spaniels or Saint Shepherds hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither American Cocker Spaniel nor Saint Shepherd 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 Saint Shepherd dogs?

Outright
Tempered
Merry
Intelligent
Trusting
Joyful
Outgoing
Sociable

Curious
Independent
Happy
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Confident
Friendly
Obedient
Loyal
Gentle
Going
Social
Watchful
Quiet

Shedding Level

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

3 / 5

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

5 / 5

Saint Shepherds shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

Origin

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

United States

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of American Cocker Spaniel and Saint Shepherd breeds?

English Cocker Spaniel

German Shepherd, Saint Bernard

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register American Cocker Spaniel and Saint Shepherd?

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

DRA = Dog Registry of America, Inc.

Date of Birth

When were American Cocker Spaniel and Saint Shepherd breeds first developed?

1800s

2000s

Eye Color Possibilites

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

Brown

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

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

Black
Brown

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

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

Black
Brown
Red
Cream
Brindle
Sable
White
Silver
Blue

Black
Brown
Pied
Sable

Coat Length

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

3 / 5

American Cocker Spaniels have medium-length coats.

4 / 5

Saint Shepherds have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of American Cocker Spaniel and Saint Shepherd?

1 / 5

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of American Cocker Spaniel and Saint Shepherd?

Wavy

Straight

Litter Size

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

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.

A Saint Shepherd can have a litter of 6-10 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

5 / 5

American Cocker Spaniel and Saint Shepherds 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 Saint Shepherd, which breed is more prone to health problems?

4 / 5

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.

5 / 5

The Saint Shepherd breed is generally very healthy, requiring minimal vet visits. Still, it's important to keep an eye on their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

Major Concerns

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

Cataracts
Retinal Dysplasia
Seborrhea
Skin Problems

Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Renal Cystadenocarcinoma and Nodular Dermatofibrosis
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat

Minor Concerns

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

Entropion
Ectropion
Corneal Erosion
Phosphofructokinase Deficiency
Skin Fold Dermatitis

Entropion
Ectropion
Pannus
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye)

Occasional Tests

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

Eye
Hip
Blood
Knee
Dna For Phosphofructokinase Deficiency

Eye Examination
Skin Evaluation
Blood And Urine Analysis
Diagnostic Imaging
Cardiac Test

Social Needs

American Cocker Spaniel vs Saint Shepherd social needs comparison

4 / 5

American Cocker Spaniel and Saint Shepherd have above average social needs compared to other breeds. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Sleeping Need

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

2 / 5

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

3 / 5

Saint Shepherds have moderate energy levels and typical sleep patterns of 12-14 hours per day.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: American Cocker Spaniel vs Saint Shepherd?

3 / 5

Roaming urge

American Cocker Spaniel vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

4 / 5

1 / 5

Prey Drive

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

5 / 5

3 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep American Cocker Spaniel and Saint Shepherd 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

Fetch, Napping, Running, Walking, Tug-of-war, Hiking, Movie marathons, Frisbee, Walks, Hunting, Swimming, Traveling, Run, Tricks, Chase, Walk, Play keep away, Play, Playdate, Water play, Hide & Seek, Playing fetch, Hike, Tag, Walkin, Play time, Training, Sleeping, Swim, Brushing

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, American Cocker Spaniels or Saint Shepherds?

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.

Saint Shepherds 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

2 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should American Cocker Spaniel or Saint Shepherd walk each 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.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Saint Shepherd, it's at least 18 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do American Cocker Spaniels or Saint Shepherds require more exercise?

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.

In general most Saint Shepherds 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.

Grooming

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

5 / 5

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

3 / 5

The Saint Shepherd requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.

Brushing Frequency

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

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

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for American Cocker Spaniels and Saint Shepherds?

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Dematter
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to American Cocker Spaniel or Saint Shepherd in 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.

For an average 95-150 pound (43 - 68 kg) Saint Shepherd feed 4.5 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, American Cocker Spaniel or Saint Shepherd?

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

The average cost of a Saint Shepherd is somewhere $4.50 - $5.60 per day.

Monthly Cost

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

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.

The average per month expenses of a Saint Shepherd is between $134 - $168. This makes an average of $1608 - $2016 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.

Sensitivity Level

How do American Cocker Spaniel and Saint Shepherd compare in sensitivity?

3 / 5

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

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Apartment Friendly

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

5 / 5

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

3 / 5

Saint Shepherds are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

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

5 / 5

The typical characteristics of American Cocker Spaniel and Saint Shepherd 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 Saint Shepherd?

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

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

3 / 5

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

4 / 5

Saint Shepherds are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

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

4 / 5

American Cocker Spaniels and Saint Shepherds 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 American Cocker Spaniel or Saint Shepherd dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

4 / 5

Stranger Friendly

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

5 / 5

American Cocker Spaniels are highly friendly around strangers.

4 / 5

Saint Shepherds are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between American Cocker Spaniel and Saint Shepherd?

4 / 5

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

3 / 5

Saint Shepherds have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.

Trainability

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

3 / 5

American Cocker Spaniel and Saint Shepherd dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.