Hovawart vs American Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
85% Compatible
Energy Level
Hovawart: Regular Exercise0.6
American Water Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Very Compatible
Trainability
Hovawart: May be Stubborn0.2
American Water Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Hovawart: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
American Water Spaniel: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Hovawart4/5
American Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Hovawart4/5
American Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Hovawart4/5
American Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Hovawart
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Heart Disease: Cardiac health concerns
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
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
Hovawart
Pros
Loyal and protective
Intelligent
Good with family
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Strong-willed
Needs extensive training
High exercise needs
Reserved with strangers
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
Hovawart Fun Fact
Hovawarts were mentioned in German law books from the 13th century as valuable property worth defending.
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
Hovawart
Origin:
Developed in medieval Germany as estate guardians and working farm dogs. Black Forest farmers valued these dogs for their protective instincts and versatile working abilities.
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
Hovawart
Needs consistent training from an early age. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Exercise requirements must be met daily to prevent behavioral 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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