American Water Spaniel vs Poodle
Discover the differences between American Water Spaniel and Poodle 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.
Poodle
Elegant, intelligent, and highly trainable, this breed stands out for its lively spirit and loyal companionship. Their hypoallergenic coat and playful personality make them ideal family pets.
Quick comparison
Medium
13.5–20.5 kg
Curly, water-resistant
12–15 years
11.5–18 kg
High energy
Medium
20–32 kg
Curly, dense
12–15 years
18–27 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
Poodle
Warm and sociable with family and guests
Highly intelligent and quick to learn commands
Needs regular activity and enjoys exercise
Loves games and interactive playtime
Easily adjusts to new environments and routines
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
American Water Spaniel
Hip dysplasia, eye problems
Poodle
Hip dysplasia, Addison’s disease
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
Poodle
Great choice
Intelligent and eager to please, Poodles are easy for beginners to train and manage.
Highly suitable
Poodles adapt well to apartment life if given daily exercise and mental stimulation.
Perfect fit
Their energy and love for activity make them great companions for active households.
Very friendly
Poodles are gentle and patient with children when socialized from a young age.
Gets along well
Poodles usually coexist peacefully with other pets, especially if socialized early.
Prone to anxiety
Poodles can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods regularly.
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
Poodle
- Highly intelligent and easy to train
- Hypoallergenic coat reduces shedding
- Strong bond with family members
- Adaptable to various living environments
- Excellent performance in canine sports
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
Poodle
- Requires regular professional grooming
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Needs daily mental and physical stimulation
- Can be reserved with unfamiliar people
- Susceptible to certain genetic health issues
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