American Water Spaniel vs Toy Poodle

Sporting · Medium vs Toy · Toy

Quick take
  • American Water Spaniel is the larger breed at 30–45 lbs (males) vs 4–6 lbs for the Toy Poodle.
  • The Toy Poodle typically lives longer (10–18 years).
  • The Toy Poodle sheds less.
  • The Toy Poodle is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAmerican Water SpanielToy Poodle
Group
SportingToy
Size
MediumToy
Origin
USAGermany
Height (male)
15–18"9–10"
Height (female)
15–18"9–10"
Weight (male)
30–45 lbs4–6 lbs
Weight (female)
25–40 lbs4–6 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years10–18 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)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
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)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)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
mediumlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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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 Toy Poodle

The Toy Poodle is an active, intelligent, lively toy version of the Poodle — apartment-friendly hypoallergenic charmer. Originally from Germany, this toy toy breed typically weighs 4–6 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as active, intelligent, lively.

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American Water Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Cardiac problems

Toy Poodle health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Tracheal collapse
  • Eye disorders
  • Dental issues