American Water Spaniel vs Skye Terrier

Sporting · Medium vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • The Skye Terrier typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The American Water Spaniel has higher daily energy needs.
  • The American Water Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAmerican Water SpanielSkye Terrier
Group
SportingTerrier
Size
MediumSmall
Origin
USAScotland
Height (male)
15–18"10"
Height (female)
15–18"9.5"
Weight (male)
30–45 lbs35–45 lbs
Weight (female)
25–40 lbs25–35 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years12–14 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)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
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)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
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 Skye Terrier

The Skye Terrier is a courageous, canny, fearless Scottish island terrier — once Queen Victoria's favorite, now rare. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 35–45 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, canny, fearless.

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American Water Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Cardiac problems

Skye Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hyperthyroidism