American Water Spaniel vs French Bulldog

Sporting · Medium vs Non-Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • American Water Spaniel is the larger breed at 30–45 lbs (males) vs 20–28 lbs for the French Bulldog.
  • The American Water Spaniel typically lives longer (10–14 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 SpanielFrench Bulldog
Group
SportingNon-Sporting
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
USAFrance
Height (male)
15–18"11–13"
Height (female)
15–18"11–13"
Weight (male)
30–45 lbs20–28 lbs
Weight (female)
25–40 lbs16–24 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Low (2/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
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 French Bulldog

The French Bulldog is a compact, muscular, bat-eared companion bred for city living and apartment life. Originally from France, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 20–28 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as adaptable, playful, smart.

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American Water Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Cardiac problems

French Bulldog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Brachycephalic syndrome
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Allergies
  • IVDD