American Water Spaniel vs Swedish Vallhund
Sporting · Medium vs Herding · Small
American Water SpanielMedium
An eager, charming, energetic Wisconsin water retriever — state dog, bred for icy duck hunts.
Weight: 30–45 lbsLifespan: 10–14 years
Swedish VallhundSmall
A friendly, energetic, watchful Viking Spitz — Sweden's 'Wolf Dog of the Vikings', resembles a Corgi.
Weight: 20–35 lbsLifespan: 12–15 years
Quick take
- • American Water Spaniel is the larger breed at 30–45 lbs (males) vs 20–35 lbs for the Swedish Vallhund.
- • The Swedish Vallhund typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The American Water Spaniel sheds less.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | American Water Spaniel | Swedish Vallhund |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Herding |
Size | Medium | Small |
Origin | USA | Sweden |
Height (male) | 15–18" | 12.5–13.75" |
Height (female) | 15–18" | 11.5–12.75" |
Weight (male) | 30–45 lbs | 20–35 lbs |
Weight (female) | 25–40 lbs | 20–35 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) | High (4/5) |
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) | High (4/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
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 Swedish Vallhund
The Swedish Vallhund is a friendly, energetic, watchful Viking Spitz — Sweden's 'Wolf Dog of the Vikings', resembles a Corgi. Originally from Sweden, this small herding breed typically weighs 20–35 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, energetic, watchful.
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American Water Spaniel health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders
- • Cardiac problems
Swedish Vallhund health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Eye disorders