The Cocker Spaniel sheds a bit more (3/5) than the French Bulldog (2/5). It's not a night-and-day difference, but if you prefer a cleaner home, the French Bulldog has a slight edge.

Life expectancy favors the Cocker Spaniel: 12–15 years versus the French Bulldog's 10–12 years. For many families, those extra years together are a compelling reason to lean toward the Cocker Spaniel.

The upfront cost gap is substantial. A French Bulldog puppy runs $1,500–$5,000, while a Cocker Spaniel is $800–$2,000.

The Cocker Spaniel needs slightly more exercise (3/5) than the French Bulldog (2/5), but neither breed is at an extreme. Both have high to moderate energy levels, so the difference in your daily routine will be modest — perhaps an extra 15-20 minutes of activity for the Cocker Spaniel.

Personality is where these two breeds diverge most visibly. The Cocker Spaniel — an American breed — has a happy, gentle and smart disposition.

The Cocker Spaniel has a slight training edge (4/5 vs 3/5). Both respond to positive reinforcement, but the Cocker Spaniel tends to catch on a bit faster.

The Cocker Spaniel has a slight edge with children (5/5 vs 4/5). Both breeds can do well in families, but the Cocker Spaniel's happy temperament gives it a small advantage around young kids.

The Cocker Spaniel (11–14 kg (24–31 lbs), 34–39 cm (13–15 in)) and French Bulldog (8–13 kg (18–29 lbs), 28–33 cm (11–13 in)) are very close in size. You won't need different-sized equipment, and food costs will be comparable.