American Water Spaniel vs Briard
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
American Water Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Briard: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
American Water Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Briard: Independent0.4
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
American Water Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Briard: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
American Water Spaniel3/5
Briard3/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Water Spaniel3/5
Briard3/5
Good with Strangers
American Water Spaniel3/5
Briard3/5
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
Briard
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Bloat: Digestive emergency condition
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting 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
Briard
Pros
Loyal and protective
Excellent herding instincts
Good with children
Intelligent
Cons
High grooming needs
Strong-willed nature
Reserved with strangers
Requires extensive exercise
American Water Spaniel Fun Fact
One of the few dog breeds developed in America specifically for hunting from small boats in rough water.
Briard Fun Fact
Napoleon reportedly praised Briards for their courage and loyalty during military campaigns.
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.
Briard
Origin:
French herding dogs from the 8th century, Briards protected and guided sheep flocks across the Brie region. Their versatility extended to military service in both World Wars.
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.
Briard
Daily brushing required to prevent matting. Need consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Regular health monitoring for breed-specific issues essential.