American Water Spaniel vs Basset Hound
Breed Compatibility
73% Compatible
Energy Level
American Water Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Basset Hound: Couch Potato0.2
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
American Water Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Basset Hound: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
American Water Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Basset Hound: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
American Water Spaniel3/5
Basset Hound5/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Water Spaniel3/5
Basset Hound5/5
Good with Strangers
American Water Spaniel3/5
Basset Hound3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
American Water Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Cardiac Issues: Heart murmurs common
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Ear Infections: Due to water exposure
Pattern Baldness: Hereditary condition
Basset Hound
Ear Infections: Prone due to long ears
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint problems
Thrombopathy: Blood clotting issue
Pros & Cons Comparison
American Water Spaniel
Pros
Excellent water retrievers
Versatile hunting companions
Good family dogs
Moderate size
Smart and trainable
Cons
Requires regular grooming
Can be stubborn
Needs lots of exercise
May be reserved with strangers
Basset Hound
Pros
Gentle and patient temperament
Great with children and other pets
Low exercise needs
Excellent sense of smell
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
Stubborn and challenging to train
Prone to obesity
Regular ear cleaning required
Significant drooling
Can be vocal
American Water Spaniel Fun Fact
One of the few dog breeds developed in America specifically for hunting from small boats in rough water.
Basset Hound Fun Fact
Their long ears help sweep scent particles toward their nose, making them one of the best tracking breeds!
Heritage & Purpose
American Water Spaniel
Origin: United States
Developed in the Great Lakes region during the 19th century, these dogs excelled at waterfowl hunting in challenging conditions. Their compact size suited them for small fishing boats.
Basset Hound
Origin:
Developed in medieval France during the 1500s, these scent hounds excelled at tracking rabbits and hares through dense underbrush, their low-set bodies and powerful noses perfectly suited for the task.
Special Considerations
American Water Spaniel
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat condition. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Prone to ear infections due to water activities.
Basset Hound
Regular ear cleaning essential due to infection risk. Weight management crucial to prevent joint stress. Moderate exercise needed despite low energy levels.