American Water Spaniel vs Chinese Shar-Pei

Sporting · Medium vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Chinese Shar-Pei is the larger breed at 45–60 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 is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAmerican Water SpanielChinese Shar-Pei
Group
SportingNon-Sporting
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
USAChina
Height (male)
15–18"18–20"
Height (female)
15–18"18–20"
Weight (male)
30–45 lbs45–60 lbs
Weight (female)
25–40 lbs45–60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years8–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumshort
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 Chinese Shar-Pei

The Chinese Shar-Pei is a loyal, calm, independent wrinkly Chinese guardian — hippopotamus-faced ancient farm and palace dog. Originally from China, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–60 lbs and lives 8–12 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, calm, independent.

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American Water Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Cardiac problems

Chinese Shar-Pei health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Skin issues
  • Allergies