American Water Spaniel vs Dalmatian
Sporting · Medium vs Non-Sporting · 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
DalmatianMedium
A dignified, smart, outgoing spotted coach dog — 101 Dalmatians, original carriage and firehouse dog.
Weight: 45–70 lbsLifespan: 11–13 years
Quick take
- • Dalmatian is the larger breed at 45–70 lbs (males) vs 30–45 lbs for the American Water Spaniel.
- • The Dalmatian has higher daily energy needs.
- • The American Water Spaniel sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | American Water Spaniel | Dalmatian |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Non-Sporting |
Size | Medium | Medium |
Origin | USA | Croatia |
Height (male) | 15–18" | 19–24" |
Height (female) | 15–18" | 19–24" |
Weight (male) | 30–45 lbs | 45–70 lbs |
Weight (female) | 25–40 lbs | 45–70 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–14 years | 11–13 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
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) | 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) | Low (2/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | medium | short |
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 Dalmatian
The Dalmatian is a dignified, smart, outgoing spotted coach dog — 101 Dalmatians, original carriage and firehouse dog. Originally from Croatia, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–70 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as dignified, smart, outgoing.
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American Water Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Cardiac problems
Dalmatian health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Deafness
- • Urinary stones
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Skin allergies