French Spaniel vs American Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
70% Compatible
Energy Level
French Spaniel: N/A
American Water Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Less Compatible
Trainability
French Spaniel: N/A
American Water Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
French Spaniel: N/A
American Water Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
French Spaniel5/5
American Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
French Spaniel5/5
American Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
French Spaniel5/5
American Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
French Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive vision issues
Ear Infections: Due to floppy ears
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Joint Issues: Activity-related strain
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
French Spaniel
Pros
Excellent hunting companion
Good with families
Intelligent
Gentle temperament
Cons
Needs extensive exercise
Regular grooming required
Can be stubborn
Not suited for apartment living
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
French Spaniel Fun Fact
French Spaniels were once so rare that only 20 dogs remained in the 1930s before breed revival efforts.
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
French Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in medieval France as versatile hunting companions, these dogs excelled in bird hunting and retrieving game from both land and water during the 14th century.
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
French Spaniel
Regular ear cleaning needed due to floppy ears. Requires consistent exercise and training. Health screening for hip dysplasia and eye conditions recommended.
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
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