Leonberger vs. American Water Spaniel: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Leonberger or American Water Spaniel?

4 / 5

Leonberger has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

3 / 5

American Water Spaniel has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are Leonbergers or American Water Spaniels hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Leonberger nor American Water Spaniel are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Leonberger and American Water Spaniel dogs?

Adaptable
Fearless
Loyal
Companionable
Loving
Obedient

Energetic
Intelligent
Protective
Friendly
Obedient
Trainable

Shedding Level

Do Leonbergers shed more than American Water Spaniels, or which breed sheds more, Leonbergers or American Water Spaniels?

5 / 5

Leonbergers shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

1 / 5

American Water Spaniels shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Leonberger or American Water Spaniel?

5 / 5

Choose a Leonberger if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.

4 / 5

American Water Spaniels make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Origin

What is the origin of Leonberger and American Water Spaniel dog breeds?

Germany

United States

Ancestry

What are the origins of Leonberger and American Water Spaniel breeds?

newfoundland, long haired saint bernard, pyrenean mountain dog

spaniel, retriever

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Leonberger and American Water Spaniel?

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
United Kennel Club

Date of Birth

When were Leonberger and American Water Spaniel breeds first developed?

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Leonberger and American Water Spaniel?

Working (AKC:2010)
Guardian Dogs (UKC)

Sporting (AKC:1940)
Gun Dog (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Leonberger and American Water Spaniel dogs?

Brown

Hazel
Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Leonberger and American Water Spaniel?

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Leonberger and American Water Spaniel breeds?

Black
Gray
Brown
Red
Cream
Sable
Brindle

Black
Brown
Red
Sable

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Leonberger and American Water Spaniel breeds?

3 / 5

The coat of Leonberger and American Water Spaniel dogs falls in the medium-length category.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Leonberger and American Water Spaniel?

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Leonberger and American Water Spaniel?

Straight

Wavy

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Leonberger and American Water Spaniel?

A Leonberger can have a litter of 8-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

An American Water Spaniel can have a litter of 10-13 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

3 / 5

Leonbergers have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.

5 / 5

American Water Spaniels are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Health Issues

Between Leonberger and American Water Spaniel, which breed is more prone to health problems?

2 / 5

Leonbergers are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

3 / 5

While the American Water Spaniel breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Leonberger and American Water Spaniel breeds?

Hip Dysplasia
Eye Problems

Mitral Valve Disease
Degenerative Myelopathy

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Leonberger and American Water Spaniel?

Laryngeal Paralysis
Inherited Leonberger Polyneuropathy

Distichiasis
Lenticular Opacities
Hip Dysplasia
Heart Disease

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Leonberger and American Water Spaniel breeds?

Hip X-Rays
Eyes
Hips
Skeletal
Physical Examination
Throat

Hip X-Rays
Heart
Eye Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Leonbergers and American Water Spaniels compare?

4 / 5

Leonbergers' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

5 / 5

American Water Spaniels thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Social Needs

Leonberger vs American Water Spaniel social needs comparison

5 / 5

Leonberger and American Water Spaniel have very high social needs. These needs include regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Leonberger vs American Water Spaniel exercise need comparison.

4 / 5

Leonbergers require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

5 / 5

American Water Spaniels need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Leonberger or American Water Spaniel?

2 / 5

Leonbergers sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

1 / 5

American Water Spaniels are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Leonberger or American Water Spaniel?

3 / 5

Leonberger is an average drooler, monitor for excessive drooling which may indicate health issues.

1 / 5

American Water Spaniel minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Leonbergers or American Water Spaniels bark more/less frequently?

1 / 5

Leonbergers are typically quiet and only bark when needed, such as to alert their owner or when in distress.

3 / 5

American Water Spaniels bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Territorial

Is the Leonberger or American Water Spaniel a better guard dog?

5 / 5

These breeds are known for being extremely protective and make excellent guard dogs. They possess a strong instinct to defend their territory and owners and have a high level of vigilance and alertness.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Leonberger vs American Water Spaniel?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Roaming urge

Leonberger vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

2 / 5

5 / 5

Prey Drive

Leonberger or American Water Spaniel - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

4 / 5

2 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Leonbergers or American Water Spaniels?

Both Leonberger and American Water Spaniel are medium-energy dogs that enjoy socializing and playing with other dogs. They may engage in casual or sustained games of chase, and occasionally have bursts of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Leonberger or American Water Spaniel walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Leonberger, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For American Water Spaniel, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Leonbergers or American Water Spaniels require more exercise?

Both Leonberger and American Water Spaniel typically require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise each day. The exercise can be spread throughout the day and may involve high-energy activities like walking, running, and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Leonbergers or American Water Spaniels?

3 / 5

Leonberger and American Water Spaniel are breeds of dogs that require an average amount of grooming effort.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Leonberger and American Water Spaniel dogs?

Leonberger should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Ideally, American Water Spaniel should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Leonbergers and American Water Spaniels?

Pin Brush
Dematter
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Dematter
Comb
Deshedder
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Leonberger or American Water Spaniel in cups?

For an average 120-170 pound (54 - 77 kg) Leonberger feed 4.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 30-45 pound (14 - 20 kg) American Water Spaniel feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Leonberger or American Water Spaniel?

The average cost of a Leonberger is somewhere $4.20 - $4.90 per day.

The average cost of an American Water Spaniel is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Leonberger or American Water Spaniel?

The average per month expenses of a Leonberger is between $126 - $147. This makes an average of $1512 - $1764 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of an American Water Spaniel is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Leonbergers vs American Water Spaniels

3 / 5

Leonberger and American Water Spaniel have average obedience intelligence, but they're also independent thinkers. This breed is known for having an exceptionally high IQ, which means they may get into trouble if left to their own devices.

Sensitivity Level

How do Leonberger and American Water Spaniel compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Leonberger vs American Water Spaniel?

5 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Leonberger or American Water Spaniel?

1 / 5

The Leonberger is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

5 / 5

American Water Spaniels make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Leonbergers or American Water Spaniels have a friendlier temperament towards children?

5 / 5

The typical characteristics of Leonberger and American Water Spaniel indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Leonberger or American Water Spaniel?

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Leonberger or American Water Spaniel breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

3 / 5

Leonbergers and American Water Spaniels are an average cat friendly dog. They do well with cats, even more if raised together from puppyhood.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Leonberger or American Water Spaniel?

4 / 5

Leonbergers are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

2 / 5

American Water Spaniels are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

How do Leonberger or American Water Spaniel dogs interact with other pets?

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Leonberger or American Water Spaniel?

3 / 5

Leonbergers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

5 / 5

American Water Spaniels are highly friendly around strangers.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Leonberger and American Water Spaniel?

4 / 5

Leonbergers are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

5 / 5

American Water Spaniels are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Leonbergers and American Water Spaniels compare?

3 / 5

Leonbergers are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.

4 / 5

American Water Spaniels are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.