Puli vs Spanish Water Dog

Herding · Medium vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Spanish Water Dog is the larger breed at 40–49 lbs (males) vs 25–35 lbs for the Puli.
  • The Spanish Water Dog typically lives longer (12–14 years).

Side-by-side traits

TraitPuliSpanish Water Dog
Group
HerdingHerding
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
HungarySpain
Height (male)
17"17.5–19.75"
Height (female)
16"15.75–18"
Weight (male)
25–35 lbs40–49 lbs
Weight (female)
25–35 lbs31–40 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–15 years12–14 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)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.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)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
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Puli

The Puli is a loyal, smart, energetic Hungarian sheepdog with corded dreadlock coat — agile and acrobatic. Originally from Hungary, this medium herding breed typically weighs 25–35 lbs and lives 10–15 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, smart, energetic.

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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Puli health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hearing problems

Spanish Water Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism