Spanish Water Dog vs Australian Kelpie
Breed Compatibility
94% Compatible
Energy Level
Spanish Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Australian Kelpie: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Spanish Water Dog: Eager to Please1.0
Australian Kelpie: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Spanish Water Dog: Specialty/Professional1.0
Australian Kelpie: Weekly Brushing0.4
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Spanish Water Dog4/5
Australian Kelpie3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Australian Kelpie3/5
Good with Strangers
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Australian Kelpie3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
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
Australian Kelpie
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
PRA: Progressive eye condition
CEA: Collie eye anomaly concerns
Cryptorchidism: Testicle retention
Cerebellar Abiotrophy: Brain disorder
Luxating Patella: Kneecap issues
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
Australian Kelpie
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Low maintenance coat
Exceptional agility
Strong herding instincts
Cons
Requires extensive exercise
Can be too intense for novice owners
May herd children and pets
Needs constant mental stimulation
Can be stubborn if not properly trained
Spanish Water Dog Fun Fact
Their distinctive curly coat naturally forms cords if left ungroomed, creating a unique appearance similar to dreadlocks.
Australian Kelpie Fun Fact
Kelpies can cover up to 50 kilometers in a day while working, demonstrating their legendary endurance.
Heritage & Purpose
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.
Australian Kelpie
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s for sheep herding in harsh outback conditions. Renowned for their exceptional stamina and working abilities in challenging terrain.
Special Considerations
Spanish Water Dog
Professional grooming needed regularly. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Australian Kelpie
Needs extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Early training and socialization essential for managing herding instincts.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
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