Afghan Hound vs Spanish Water Dog

Hound · Large vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Afghan Hound is the larger breed at 60 lbs (males) vs 40–49 lbs for the Spanish Water Dog.
  • The Afghan Hound typically lives longer (12–18 years).
  • The Spanish Water Dog sheds less.
  • The Spanish Water Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAfghan HoundSpanish Water Dog
Group
HoundHerding
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
AfghanistanSpain
Height (male)
27"17.5–19.75"
Height (female)
25"15.75–18"
Weight (male)
60 lbs40–49 lbs
Weight (female)
50 lbs31–40 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–18 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is an aloof, dignified, ancient sighthound — the supermodel of the dog world with a flowing silken coat. Originally from Afghanistan, this large hound breed typically weighs 60 lbs and lives 12–18 years. Breeders describe them as aloof, dignified, independent.

About the Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog is a loyal, smart, athletic Spanish all-purpose herder, hunter, and water-rescuer with a curly cord coat. Originally from Spain, this medium herding breed typically weighs 40–49 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, smart, athletic.

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Afghan Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Hypothyroidism

Spanish Water Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism