Spanish Mastiff vs Spanish Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
88% Compatible
Energy Level
Spanish Mastiff: Calm0.4
Spanish Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Spanish Mastiff: N/A
Spanish Water Dog: Eager to Please1.0
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Spanish Mastiff: N/A
Spanish Water Dog: Specialty/Professional1.0
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Spanish Mastiff3/5
Spanish Water Dog4/5
Good with Other Dogs
Spanish Mastiff3/5
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Good with Strangers
Spanish Mastiff3/5
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Spanish Mastiff
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Elbow dysplasia: Joint development problem
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Heart issues: Cardiac health concerns
Eye problems: Various ocular conditions
Obesity: Weight management challenges
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
Spanish Mastiff
Pros
Excellent guardian breed
Gentle with family
Patient temperament
Low exercise needs
Cons
Heavy drooling
Significant food costs
Space requirements
Health issues
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
Spanish Mastiff Fun Fact
Spanish Mastiffs were historically used in groups of five to protect sheep flocks from wolves and bears.
Spanish Water Dog Fun Fact
Their distinctive curly coat naturally forms cords if left ungroomed, creating a unique appearance similar to dreadlocks.
Heritage & Purpose
Spanish Mastiff
Origin:
Medieval Spain saw these mastiffs guarding livestock against wolves and bears in the Mesta system. Their impressive size and protective nature made them invaluable guardians of sheep flocks.
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
Spanish Mastiff
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Moderate exercise requirements must be met consistently. Health monitoring is essential due to size-related issues.
Spanish Water Dog
Professional grooming needed regularly. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.