American Water Spaniel vs Shetland Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
77% Compatible
Energy Level
American Water Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Shetland Sheepdog: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
American Water Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Shetland Sheepdog: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
American Water Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Shetland Sheepdog: 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
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
American Water Spaniel3/5
Shetland Sheepdog5/5
Good with Strangers
American Water Spaniel3/5
Shetland Sheepdog2/5
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
Shetland Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision problems
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
MDR1 Gene: Medicine sensitivity
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
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
Shetland Sheepdog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent family dog
Low maintenance cost
Good with children
Cons
Excessive barking tendency
Heavy shedding
Can be shy with strangers
Requires extensive grooming
American Water Spaniel Fun Fact
One of the few dog breeds developed in America specifically for hunting from small boats in rough water.
Shetland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Shelties were once called 'Toonie Dogs' because they were used on small farms called 'toons' in Shetland.
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.
Shetland Sheepdog
Origin:
Developed in the Shetland Islands during the 1800s, these dogs were bred to herd sheep and small livestock across rugged terrain while being compact enough to maintain on limited resources.
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.
Shetland Sheepdog
Regular grooming sessions needed for double coat maintenance. Requires early socialization to prevent shyness. Tendency to bark needs early training attention.