Finnish Lapphund vs American Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
94% Compatible
Energy Level
Finnish Lapphund: Regular Exercise0.6
American Water Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Finnish Lapphund: Eager to Please1.0
American Water Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Finnish Lapphund: Weekly Brushing0.4
American Water Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Finnish Lapphund4/5
American Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Finnish Lapphund3/5
American Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Finnish Lapphund4/5
American Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Finnish Lapphund
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRCD-PRA: Progressive eye condition
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
GCL: Genetic eye disorder
PHTVL/PHPV: Eye development disorder
RD: Retinal development problems
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
Pros & Cons Comparison
Finnish Lapphund
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Highly trainable
Weather resistant
Adaptable
Cons
Heavy seasonal shedding
Can be vocal
Needs regular exercise
Strong herding instinct
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
Finnish Lapphund Fun Fact
Finnish Lapphunds can herd reindeer using subtle body movements and barking patterns unique to the breed.
American Water Spaniel Fun Fact
One of the few dog breeds developed in America specifically for hunting from small boats in rough water.
Heritage & Purpose
Finnish Lapphund
Origin:
Developed by the Sami people in Lapland during the 1940s, these dogs expertly herded reindeer across vast Arctic territories, using their agility and intelligence to manage large herds.
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.
Special Considerations
Finnish Lapphund
Regular brushing needed during heavy shedding seasons. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Monitor for common breed-specific health issues.
American Water Spaniel
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat condition. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Prone to ear infections due to water activities.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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