American Water Spaniel vs Belgian Laekenois
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
American Water Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Belgian Laekenois: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
American Water Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Belgian Laekenois: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
American Water Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Belgian Laekenois: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
American Water Spaniel3/5
Belgian Laekenois3/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Water Spaniel3/5
Belgian Laekenois3/5
Good with Strangers
American Water Spaniel3/5
Belgian Laekenois3/5
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
Belgian Laekenois
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal issues
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Epilepsy: Neurological concerns
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Joint Problems: Elbow dysplasia risk
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
Belgian Laekenois
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent watchdog
Devoted to family
Athletic and agile
Cons
High exercise needs
Strong herding instinct
Requires experienced owner
Regular grooming needed
American Water Spaniel Fun Fact
One of the few dog breeds developed in America specifically for hunting from small boats in rough water.
Belgian Laekenois Fun Fact
The Laekenois is the rarest of the four Belgian shepherd varieties and was once used to guard linen drying in fields.
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.
Belgian Laekenois
Origin:
Developed in Belgium's Laeken region during the 1800s, serving as sheep herding dogs and farm guardians. Valued for their versatility and protective instincts in agricultural settings.
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.
Belgian Laekenois
Needs regular coat stripping and grooming. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization and training essential for balanced temperament.