American Water Spaniel vs Chinese Crested
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
American Water Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Chinese Crested: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
American Water Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Chinese Crested: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
American Water Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Chinese Crested: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
American Water Spaniel3/5
Chinese Crested3/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Water Spaniel3/5
Chinese Crested3/5
Good with Strangers
American Water Spaniel3/5
Chinese Crested4/5
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
Chinese Crested
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Primary Lens Luxation: Eye condition
Glaucoma: Eye pressure disorder
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Cardiac Issues: Heart conditions
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
Chinese Crested
Pros
Excellent companion dog
Minimal shedding
Good for apartment living
Affectionate with family
Cons
Requires skin care (hairless variety)
Sensitive to extreme temperatures
Can be yappy
May be difficult to housebreak
American Water Spaniel Fun Fact
One of the few dog breeds developed in America specifically for hunting from small boats in rough water.
Chinese Crested Fun Fact
The hairless gene in Chinese Cresteds is actually incomplete dominance, resulting in some dogs being born with fur!
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.
Chinese Crested
Origin:
Developed in ancient China as companion dogs for Chinese sailors, these small dogs served as ratters on ships while traveling maritime trade routes during the Han dynasty.
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.
Chinese Crested
Hairless variety needs sun protection and regular skin care. Both varieties require dental attention and protection from extreme temperatures.