American Water Spaniel vs Cocker Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
77% Compatible
Energy Level
American Water Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Cocker Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
American Water Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Cocker Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
American Water Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Cocker Spaniel: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
American Water Spaniel3/5
Cocker Spaniel5/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Water Spaniel3/5
Cocker Spaniel5/5
Good with Strangers
American Water Spaniel3/5
Cocker Spaniel4/5
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
Cocker Spaniel
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Ear Infections: Chronic inflammation
Heart Disease: Cardiac concerns
Patellar Luxation: Knee problems
Glaucoma: Eye pressure issues
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
Cocker Spaniel
Pros
Affectionate family companion
Good with children
Highly trainable
Moderate size
Sporting ability
Cons
Regular grooming required
Prone to ear infections
Can be vocal
Separation anxiety prone
American Water Spaniel Fun Fact
One of the few dog breeds developed in America specifically for hunting from small boats in rough water.
Cocker Spaniel Fun Fact
The Cocker Spaniel was America's most popular breed for several years in the 1940s and 1950s.
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.
Cocker Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1800s for hunting woodcock and other game birds. These skilled retrievers excelled at flushing and recovering birds from dense undergrowth.
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.
Cocker Spaniel
Daily coat brushing essential to prevent matting. Regular ear cleaning needed to prevent infections. Moderate exercise requirements must be met consistently.