Australian Kelpie vs Spanish Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
94% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Kelpie: Energetic0.8
Spanish Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Kelpie: Eager to Please1.0
Spanish Water Dog: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Kelpie: Weekly Brushing0.4
Spanish Water Dog: Specialty/Professional1.0
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Kelpie3/5
Spanish Water Dog4/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Kelpie3/5
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Kelpie3/5
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Kelpie
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
PRA: Progressive eye condition
CEA: Collie eye anomaly concerns
Cryptorchidism: Testicle retention
Cerebellar Abiotrophy: Brain disorder
Luxating Patella: Kneecap issues
Spanish Water Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
CHD: Congenital heart defects possible
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid function issues
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder risk
Pros & Cons Comparison
Australian Kelpie
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Low maintenance coat
Exceptional agility
Strong herding instincts
Cons
Requires extensive exercise
Can be too intense for novice owners
May herd children and pets
Needs constant mental stimulation
Can be stubborn if not properly trained
Spanish Water Dog
Pros
Highly trainable
Excellent swimming ability
Low shedding coat
Versatile working dog
Cons
High grooming maintenance
Requires extensive exercise
Can be reserved with strangers
Strong herding instincts
Australian Kelpie Fun Fact
Kelpies can cover up to 50 kilometers in a day while working, demonstrating their legendary endurance.
Spanish Water Dog Fun Fact
Their distinctive curly coat naturally forms cords if left ungroomed, creating a unique appearance similar to dreadlocks.
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Kelpie
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s for sheep herding in harsh outback conditions. Renowned for their exceptional stamina and working abilities in challenging terrain.
Spanish Water Dog
Origin:
Developed along Spain's coastal regions during the Middle Ages, these dogs excelled in herding livestock and retrieving from water, serving as versatile working companions.
Special Considerations
Australian Kelpie
Needs extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Early training and socialization essential for managing herding instincts.
Spanish Water Dog
Professional grooming needed regularly. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
RegularlyShedding
InfrequentRelated Comparisons
Similar Size
Australian Kelpie vs Yorkshire Terrier →Similar Size
Australian Kelpie vs Japanese Chin →