American Water Spaniel vs Russian Toy
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
American Water Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Russian Toy: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
American Water Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Russian Toy: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
American Water Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Russian Toy: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
American Water Spaniel3/5
Russian Toy3/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Water Spaniel3/5
Russian Toy3/5
Good with Strangers
American Water Spaniel3/5
Russian Toy3/5
Living Requirements
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
Russian Toy
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Dental Issues: Tooth decay and loss
Eye Problems: Progressive vision loss
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac abnormalities
Bone Fractures: Due to fragile frame
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
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
Russian Toy
Pros
Compact size
Minimal grooming needs
Affectionate nature
Good for apartments
Cons
Fragile build
Can be yappy
Not ideal with young children
Temperature sensitive
American Water Spaniel Fun Fact
One of the few dog breeds developed in America specifically for hunting from small boats in rough water.
Russian Toy Fun Fact
Russian Toys are one of the smallest dog breeds, originally developed as both ratters and lap warmers!
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.
Russian Toy
Origin:
Developed in Russia during the early 20th century as companion dogs for aristocracy, these tiny terriers served as ratters and fashionable lapdogs in urban households.
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.
Russian Toy
Requires protection from cold weather, careful handling due to delicate build, and regular dental care. Early socialization helps prevent excessive timidity.