Greater Swiss Mountain Dog vs Spanish Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
92% Compatible
Energy Level
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Spanish Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Agreeable0.6
Spanish Water Dog: Eager to Please1.0
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Spanish Water Dog: Specialty/Professional1.0
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Spanish Water Dog4/5
Good with Other Dogs
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog3/5
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Good with Strangers
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog5/5
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Bloat: Serious digestive emergency
Eye Problems: Various hereditary issues
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Splenic Torsion: Emergency condition
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent watchdog capabilities
Good with children
Strong and athletic
Low grooming needs
Cons
Heavy shedding seasonally
Not apartment-friendly
Can be stubborn
Expensive to feed
Short lifespan
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, these gentle giants were known as 'poor man's horse' in Swiss farming communities.
Spanish Water Dog Fun Fact
Their distinctive curly coat naturally forms cords if left ungroomed, creating a unique appearance similar to dreadlocks.
Heritage & Purpose
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Origin:
Swiss farmers utilized these dogs in the Alps during the 1800s for drafting, herding, and guarding livestock. Their strength and versatility made them invaluable working companions.
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
Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
Needs early socialization and training. Regular exercise essential. Watch for signs of bloat and joint issues. Climate sensitivity in hot weather requires monitoring.
Spanish Water Dog
Professional grooming needed regularly. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.