American Water Spaniel vs Border Collie
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
American Water Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Border Collie: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
American Water Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Border Collie: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
American Water Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Border Collie: 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
Border Collie3/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Water Spaniel3/5
Border Collie3/5
Good with Strangers
American Water Spaniel3/5
Border Collie4/5
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
Border Collie
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
CEA: Eye development disorder
MDR1: Drug sensitivity gene
TNS: Neurological condition
CL: Neurological disorder
Epilepsy: Seizure disorder
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
Border Collie
Pros
Extremely intelligent
Highly trainable
Athletic and agile
Loyal and devoted
Excellent working dog
Cons
Requires extensive exercise
May be too intense for novice owners
Strong herding instinct
Needs constant mental stimulation
Can be overly sensitive
American Water Spaniel Fun Fact
One of the few dog breeds developed in America specifically for hunting from small boats in rough water.
Border Collie Fun Fact
Border Collies can learn to recognize over 1,000 words and can understand complex multi-step commands.
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.
Border Collie
Origin:
Developed in the border country between Scotland and England during the 1700s, these dogs revolutionized sheep herding with their distinctive 'eye' and precise control of livestock.
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.
Border Collie
Requires extensive daily exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training. Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Early socialization crucial.