Airedale Terrier vs American Water Spaniel

Terrier · Large vs Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Airedale Terrier is the larger breed at 50–70 lbs (males) vs 30–45 lbs for the American Water Spaniel.
  • The Airedale Terrier typically lives longer (11–14 years).
  • The Airedale Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAiredale TerrierAmerican Water Spaniel
Group
TerrierSporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
EnglandUSA
Height (male)
23"15–18"
Height (female)
22"15–18"
Weight (male)
50–70 lbs30–45 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs25–40 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–14 years10–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
wirehairedmedium
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is a friendly, clever, courageous 'King of Terriers' — the largest of the terrier clan from Yorkshire. Originally from England, this large terrier breed typically weighs 50–70 lbs and lives 11–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, clever, courageous.

About the American Water Spaniel

The American Water Spaniel is an eager, charming, energetic Wisconsin water retriever — state dog, bred for icy duck hunts. Originally from USA, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 30–45 lbs and lives 10–14 years. Breeders describe them as eager, charming, energetic.

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Airedale Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Skin issues

American Water Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Cardiac problems