Dachshund vs Spanish Water Dog

Hound · Small vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Spanish Water Dog is the larger breed at 40–49 lbs (males) vs 16–32 lbs for the Dachshund.
  • The Dachshund typically lives longer (12–16 years).
  • The Spanish Water Dog sheds less.
  • The Spanish Water Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitDachshundSpanish Water Dog
Group
HoundHerding
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
GermanySpain
Height (male)
8–9"17.5–19.75"
Height (female)
8–9"15.75–18"
Weight (male)
16–32 lbs40–49 lbs
Weight (female)
16–32 lbs31–40 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–16 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very High (5/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Dachshund

The Dachshund is a spirited, clever, courageous badger-hunter on stubby legs — the iconic 'wiener dog'. Originally from Germany, this small hound breed typically weighs 16–32 lbs and lives 12–16 years. Breeders describe them as spunky, curious, friendly.

About the Spanish Water Dog

The Spanish Water Dog is a loyal, smart, athletic Spanish all-purpose herder, hunter, and water-rescuer with a curly cord coat. Originally from Spain, this medium herding breed typically weighs 40–49 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, smart, athletic.

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Dachshund health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • IVDD (back problems)
  • Obesity
  • Patellar luxation
  • Diabetes

Spanish Water Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism