Spanish Water Dog vs Vizsla

Herding · Medium vs Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Vizsla is the larger breed at 55–60 lbs (males) vs 40–49 lbs for the Spanish Water Dog.
  • The Vizsla has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Spanish Water Dog sheds less.
  • The Vizsla is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitSpanish Water DogVizsla
Group
HerdingSporting
Size
MediumMedium
Origin
SpainHungary
Height (male)
17.5–19.75"22–24"
Height (female)
15.75–18"21–23"
Weight (male)
40–49 lbs55–60 lbs
Weight (female)
31–40 lbs44–55 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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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.

About the Vizsla

The Vizsla is an affectionate, energetic, gentle Hungarian pointer — the original 'velcro dog' that needs constant company. Originally from Hungary, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 55–60 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, energetic, gentle.

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Spanish Water Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism

Vizsla health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Epilepsy
  • Hypothyroidism