American Water Spaniel vs Border Collie
Sporting · Medium vs Herding · Medium
American Water SpanielMedium
An eager, charming, energetic Wisconsin water retriever — state dog, bred for icy duck hunts.
Weight: 30–45 lbsLifespan: 10–14 years
Border CollieMedium
The world's premier sheep herder and the most intelligent dog breed — a workaholic that needs a purpose.
Weight: 30–55 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Border Collie is the larger breed at 30–55 lbs (males) vs 30–45 lbs for the American Water Spaniel.
- • The Border Collie typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Border Collie has higher daily energy needs.
- • The American Water Spaniel sheds less.
- • The Border Collie is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | American Water Spaniel | Border Collie |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Herding |
Size | Medium | Medium |
Origin | USA | Scotland |
Height (male) | 15–18" | 19–22" |
Height (female) | 15–18" | 18–21" |
Weight (male) | 30–45 lbs | 30–55 lbs |
Weight (female) | 25–40 lbs | 30–55 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–14 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Low (2/5) | High (4/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | 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) | High (4/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
Coat length | medium | medium |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | Yes | No |
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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 Border Collie
The Border Collie is the world's premier sheep herder and the most intelligent dog breed — a workaholic that needs a purpose. Originally from Scotland, this medium herding breed typically weighs 30–55 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, smart, energetic.
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American Water Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Cardiac problems
Border Collie health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Epilepsy
- • Collie eye anomaly
- • MDR1 gene mutation