Poodle (Standard) vs Spanish Water Dog

Non-Sporting · Large vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Poodle (Standard) is the larger breed at 60–70 lbs (males) vs 40–49 lbs for the Spanish Water Dog.
  • The Poodle (Standard) typically lives longer (10–18 years).
  • The Poodle (Standard) is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitPoodle (Standard)Spanish Water Dog
Group
Non-SportingHerding
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
GermanySpain
Height (male)
18–24"17.5–19.75"
Height (female)
18–24"15.75–18"
Weight (male)
60–70 lbs40–49 lbs
Weight (female)
40–50 lbs31–40 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–18 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)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
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Poodle (Standard)

The Poodle (Standard) is an elegant, athletic, and exceptionally intelligent water dog — far more than its show-ring image suggests. Originally from Germany, this large non-sporting breed typically weighs 60–70 lbs and lives 10–18 years. Breeders describe them as active, proud, very smart.

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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Poodle (Standard) health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Addison's disease
  • Eye disorders

Spanish Water Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism