American Water Spaniel vs Great Pyrenees
Sporting · Medium vs Working · Giant
American Water SpanielMedium
An eager, charming, energetic Wisconsin water retriever — state dog, bred for icy duck hunts.
Weight: 30–45 lbsLifespan: 10–14 years
Great PyreneesGiant
A patient, smart, strong-willed livestock guardian — the snowy giant of the Pyrenees mountains.
Weight: 100 lbsLifespan: 10–12 years
Quick take
- • Great Pyrenees is the larger breed at 100 lbs (males) vs 30–45 lbs for the American Water Spaniel.
- • 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
| Trait | American Water Spaniel | Great Pyrenees |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Working |
Size | Medium | Giant |
Origin | USA | France |
Height (male) | 15–18" | 27–32" |
Height (female) | 15–18" | 25–29" |
Weight (male) | 30–45 lbs | 100 lbs |
Weight (female) | 25–40 lbs | 85 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–14 years | 10–12 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) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | High (4/5) | Low (2/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
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) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | medium | long |
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 Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees is a patient, smart, strong-willed livestock guardian — the snowy giant of the Pyrenees mountains. Originally from France, this giant working breed typically weighs 100 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as patient, smart, strong-willed.
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American Water Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Cardiac problems
Great Pyrenees health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Bloat
- • Bone cancer
- • Heart problems