American Water Spaniel vs German Shepherd
Discover the differences between American Water Spaniel and German Shepherd to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds
American Water Spaniel
Energetic, intelligent, and eager to please, this breed thrives as an active companion both on land and in water. Their curly coat and cheerful disposition set them apart.
German Shepherd
Confident, loyal, and highly intelligent, this breed thrives as both a devoted family companion and a reliable working partner. Always alert and eager to learn, it adapts to many roles with ease.
Quick comparison
Medium
13.5–20.5 kg
Curly, water-resistant
12–15 years
11.5–18 kg
High energy
Large
30–40 kg
Double coat, dense undercoat
9–13 years
22–32 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
American Water Spaniel
Generally sociable with people and other dogs
Quick learner, responds well to training
High stamina, needs regular physical activity
Enjoys games and interactive activities daily
Adjusts well to various living environments
German Shepherd
Warm with family, reserved with strangers
Quick learner, highly trainable and alert
Needs regular activity and vigorous exercise
Enjoys games, interactive and engaging
Adjusts well to new situations and environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
American Water Spaniel
Hip dysplasia, eye problems
German Shepherd
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
American Water Spaniel
Good option
Responsive and trainable, but may require patience with initial stubbornness
Moderate fit
Needs daily exercise and may bark if understimulated in small spaces
Excellent match
Thrives with active owners who can provide regular outdoor activities
Friendly companion
Generally gentle and playful, but supervision with small children is recommended
Usually compatible
Can get along with other pets if socialized from a young age
Not recommended
Prone to separation anxiety and destructive behaviors if left alone too long
German Shepherd
Challenging for beginners
Needs experienced, consistent training and socialization
Not ideal
Needs space and frequent exercise to prevent boredom
Perfect fit
Thrives with active owners who can provide daily physical and mental challenges
Highly suitable
Loyal and protective, can be gentle and patient with proper socialization
Usually compatible
Can get along with other pets if raised together and well socialized
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop behavioral issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
American Water Spaniel
- Excellent swimmer with strong retrieving instincts
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Loyal and affectionate with family members
- High intelligence and trainability
- Moderate exercise needs suit active households
German Shepherd
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn tasks
- Strong loyalty to family members
- Excellent working and service dog abilities
- Protective instincts make them good guardians
- Adaptable to various training activities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
American Water Spaniel
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Can be territorial with unfamiliar dogs
- Needs regular grooming to prevent matting
- May bark excessively without proper training
- Sensitive to harsh training methods
German Shepherd
- Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia
- High exercise needs require daily activity
- Can develop separation anxiety if left alone
- May be wary of strangers without socialization
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires frequent grooming
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