American Water Spaniel vs Norwegian Elkhound
Sporting · Medium vs Hound · 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
Norwegian ElkhoundMedium
A friendly, dignified, confident Viking elk-hunting Spitz — Norway's national breed for over 6,000 years.
Weight: 55 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • Norwegian Elkhound is the larger breed at 55 lbs (males) vs 30–45 lbs for the American Water Spaniel.
- • The Norwegian Elkhound typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The American Water Spaniel sheds less.
- • The American Water Spaniel is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | American Water Spaniel | Norwegian Elkhound |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Hound |
Size | Medium | Medium |
Origin | USA | Norway |
Height (male) | 15–18" | 19.5–20.5" |
Height (female) | 15–18" | 18–19" |
Weight (male) | 30–45 lbs | 55 lbs |
Weight (female) | 25–40 lbs | 48 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–14 years | 12–15 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
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) | 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) | High (4/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
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 Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhound is a friendly, dignified, confident Viking elk-hunting Spitz — Norway's national breed for over 6,000 years. Originally from Norway, this medium hound breed typically weighs 55 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, dignified, confident.
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American Water Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Cardiac problems
Norwegian Elkhound health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Progressive retinal atrophy
- • Hypothyroidism