American Water Spaniel vs Basset Hound

Sporting · Medium vs Hound · Medium

Quick take
  • Basset Hound is the larger breed at 40–65 lbs (males) vs 30–45 lbs for the American Water Spaniel.
  • The Basset Hound typically lives longer (12–13 years).
  • The American Water Spaniel has higher daily energy needs.
  • The American Water Spaniel sheds less.
  • The American Water Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAmerican Water SpanielBasset Hound
Group
SportingHound
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
USAFrance
Height (male)
15–18"14–15"
Height (female)
15–18"14–15"
Weight (male)
30–45 lbs40–65 lbs
Weight (female)
25–40 lbs40–65 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years12–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)High (4/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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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.

About the Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is a charming, patient, low-key scenthound on stubby legs — Hush Puppies mascot, second-best nose to bloodhound. Originally from France, this medium hound breed typically weighs 40–65 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as charming, patient, low-key.

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American Water Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Cardiac problems

Basset Hound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Ear infections
  • Glaucoma
  • IVDD
  • Obesity