Spanish Water Dog vs German Shepherd Dog
Breed Compatibility
93% Compatible
Energy Level
Spanish Water Dog: Energetic0.8
German Shepherd Dog: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Spanish Water Dog: Eager to Please1.0
German Shepherd Dog: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Spanish Water Dog: Specialty/Professional1.0
German Shepherd Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Spanish Water Dog4/5
German Shepherd Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Spanish Water Dog3/5
German Shepherd Dog3/5
Good with Strangers
Spanish Water Dog3/5
German Shepherd Dog3/5
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
German Shepherd Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint abnormality
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
DM: Degenerative myelopathy
EPI: Digestive enzyme deficiency
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting
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
German Shepherd Dog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Loyal
Versatile
Protective
Trainable
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Can be overprotective
Health issues
Spanish Water Dog Fun Fact
Their distinctive curly coat naturally forms cords if left ungroomed, creating a unique appearance similar to dreadlocks.
German Shepherd Dog Fun Fact
German Shepherds have starred in numerous films and were among the first dogs trained as guide dogs for the blind.
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.
German Shepherd Dog
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the late 1800s as a herding and working dog. Max von Stephanitz standardized the breed for military and police work, emphasizing utility and intelligence.
Special Considerations
Spanish Water Dog
Professional grooming needed regularly. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
German Shepherd Dog
Regular brushing needed during heavy shedding seasons. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Hip and joint health monitoring essential throughout life.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
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