American Water Spaniel vs Golden Retriever
Sporting · Medium vs Sporting · Large
American Water SpanielMedium
An eager, charming, energetic Wisconsin water retriever — state dog, bred for icy duck hunts.
Weight: 30–45 lbsLifespan: 10–14 years
Golden RetrieverLarge
A friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat.
Weight: 65–75 lbsLifespan: 10–12 years
Quick take
- • Golden Retriever is the larger breed at 65–75 lbs (males) vs 30–45 lbs for the American Water Spaniel.
- • The American Water Spaniel typically lives longer (10–14 years).
- • The Golden Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
- • The American Water Spaniel sheds less.
- • The Golden Retriever is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | American Water Spaniel | Golden Retriever |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Sporting |
Size | Medium | Large |
Origin | USA | Scotland |
Height (male) | 15–18" | 23–24" |
Height (female) | 15–18" | 21.5–22.5" |
Weight (male) | 30–45 lbs | 65–75 lbs |
Weight (female) | 25–40 lbs | 55–65 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–14 years | 10–12 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) | Very High (5/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
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) | Very High (5/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Low (2/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
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 Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is a friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat. Originally from Scotland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–75 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, intelligent, devoted.
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American Water Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Cardiac problems
Golden Retriever health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Cancer
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart disease
- • Skin conditions