American Bulldog vs Spanish Water Dog

Working · Large vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • American Bulldog is the larger breed at 75–100 lbs (males) vs 40–49 lbs for the Spanish Water Dog.
  • The Spanish Water Dog typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Spanish Water Dog sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAmerican BulldogSpanish Water Dog
Group
WorkingHerding
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
USASpain
Height (male)
22–25"17.5–19.75"
Height (female)
20–23"15.75–18"
Weight (male)
75–100 lbs40–49 lbs
Weight (female)
60–80 lbs31–40 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years12–14 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)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the American Bulldog

The American Bulldog is a loyal, athletic, hard-working farm guardian — taller and more athletic than the English Bulldog. Originally from USA, this large working breed typically weighs 75–100 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, athletic, hardworking.

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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American Bulldog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cherry eye
  • Skin allergies
  • Kidney disease

Spanish Water Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism