Scottish Terrier vs Spanish Water Dog

Terrier · Small vs Herding · Medium

Quick take
  • Spanish Water Dog is the larger breed at 40–49 lbs (males) vs 19–22 lbs for the Scottish Terrier.
  • The Scottish Terrier typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Spanish Water Dog has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Spanish Water Dog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitScottish TerrierSpanish Water Dog
Group
TerrierHerding
Size
SmallMedium
Origin
ScotlandSpain
Height (male)
10"17.5–19.75"
Height (female)
10"15.75–18"
Weight (male)
19–22 lbs40–49 lbs
Weight (female)
18–21 lbs31–40 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)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
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)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
wirehairedlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesYes
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About the Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier is an independent, confident, spirited terrier from the Scottish Highlands — the original 'Scottie'. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 19–22 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, independent, spirited.

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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Scottish Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Scotty cramp
  • Von Willebrand's disease
  • Bladder cancer

Spanish Water Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism