Field Spaniel vs Portuguese Water Dog

Sporting · Medium vs Working · Medium

Quick take
  • Portuguese Water Dog is the larger breed at 42–60 lbs (males) vs 35–50 lbs for the Field Spaniel.
  • The Field Spaniel typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Portuguese Water Dog sheds less.
  • The Portuguese Water Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitField SpanielPortuguese Water Dog
Group
SportingWorking
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
EnglandPortugal
Height (male)
18"20–23"
Height (female)
17"17–21"
Weight (male)
35–50 lbs42–60 lbs
Weight (female)
35–50 lbs35–50 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years11–13 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)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)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.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Field Spaniel

The Field Spaniel is a sensitive, fun-loving, affectionate British spaniel — rare flushing breed, taller than a Cocker. Originally from England, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 35–50 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as sensitive, fun-loving, affectionate.

About the Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog is an affectionate, athletic, smart fisherman's dog — Bo Obama's breed, swims and herds fish into nets. Originally from Portugal, this medium working breed typically weighs 42–60 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, athletic, smart.

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Field Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Ear infections

Portuguese Water Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Storage diseases