American Water Spaniel vs Labrador 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
Labrador RetrieverLarge
America's most popular dog — a friendly, outgoing, athletic retriever bred to fetch waterfowl.
Weight: 65–80 lbsLifespan: 11–13 years
Quick take
- • Labrador Retriever is the larger breed at 65–80 lbs (males) vs 30–45 lbs for the American Water Spaniel.
- • The Labrador Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
- • The American Water Spaniel sheds less.
- • The Labrador Retriever is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | American Water Spaniel | Labrador Retriever |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Sporting |
Size | Medium | Large |
Origin | USA | Canada |
Height (male) | 15–18" | 22.5–24.5" |
Height (female) | 15–18" | 21.5–23.5" |
Weight (male) | 30–45 lbs | 65–80 lbs |
Weight (female) | 25–40 lbs | 55–70 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) | 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) | Low (2/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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 | 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 Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is america's most popular dog — a friendly, outgoing, athletic retriever bred to fetch waterfowl. Originally from Canada, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–80 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, active, outgoing, even-tempered.
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American Water Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Cardiac problems
Labrador Retriever health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Elbow dysplasia
- • Obesity
- • Progressive retinal atrophy