American Water Spaniel vs Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Sporting · Medium vs Herding · Small

Quick take
  • American Water Spaniel is the larger breed at 30–45 lbs (males) vs 24–30 lbs for the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
  • The Pembroke Welsh Corgi typically lives longer (12–13 years).
  • The American Water Spaniel sheds less.
  • The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAmerican Water SpanielPembroke Welsh Corgi
Group
SportingHerding
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
USAWales
Height (male)
15–18"10–12"
Height (female)
15–18"10–12"
Weight (male)
30–45 lbs24–30 lbs
Weight (female)
25–40 lbs24–28 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years12–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
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)High (4/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediummedium
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 Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a smart, alert, affectionate herder on stumpy legs — the favorite breed of Queen Elizabeth II. Originally from Wales, this small herding breed typically weighs 24–30 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as smart, alert, affectionate.

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American Water Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Cardiac problems

Pembroke Welsh Corgi health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • IVDD
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Degenerative myelopathy
  • Obesity