American Water Spaniel vs English Springer Spaniel
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
American Water Spaniel
The American Water Spaniel is a versatile and intelligent hunting dog known for its curly, water-resistant coat and energetic, friendly disposition, making it an excellent companion for outdoor enthusiasts. Originating from the United States, this breed is particularly skilled in retrieving and excels in various dog sports due to its agility and eagerness to please.
Medium
High
10-14 yrs
38-46 cm
English Springer Spaniel
Also known as: Springer, ESS
The English Springer Spaniel is a versatile and energetic breed known for its friendly and affectionate nature, making it an excellent companion for families and active individuals. Originally bred for hunting, this medium-sized dog is highly trainable and excels in various canine sports and activities. They're called 'Springers' because they literally spring or flush game birds into the air.
Medium
High
12-14 yrs
48-51 cm
18-25 kg
Quick Comparison
| Trait | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming Needs | ||
| Family Friendly | ||
| Independence |
Key Characteristics
| Good with Kids | ||
| Good with Dogs | ||
| Good with Cats | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Apartment Friendly | ||
| First-Time Owner OK |
| Detail | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Energy Level | High | High |
| Grooming | High | High |
| Trainability | challenging | Easy |
| Barking Level | High | Medium |
| Shedding Level | Medium | Medium |
| Chew strength | Moderate | Moderate |
| Housing | Yard | Yard |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Experienced | Beginner (with active lifestyle) |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | Active individual or family who can provide adequate exercise and training for a American Water Spaniel. | Active individual or family committed to training and daily exercise. Works from home or can provide midday breaks. Tolerant of mud and moderate shedding. |
American Water Spaniel Dealbreakers
- Cannot meet 60-90 min daily exercise
- Cannot commit to grooming needs
English Springer Spaniel Dealbreakers
- Sedentary lifestyle - do NOT get this breed if you want a couch potato
- Long work hours - not suitable for homes empty 8-10 hours/day
- Fastidious cleaners - they shed, track mud, and drip water from ears/jowls
Surrender Risk
| Factor | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Medium | Medium |
| Primary Reasons | Underestimated exercise needs, Behavioral challenges, Cost of care | Energy mismatch - owner underestimated exercise needs, Biting/aggression - often misdiagnosed rage or resource guarding in untrained dogs, Health costs - chronic ear/skin issues |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | High | Medium |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | Low | Medium |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | Moderate |
American Water Spaniel Social Traits
Moderate
Selective
English Springer Spaniel Social Traits
Low
Generally dog-friendly, enjoys pack play
Training
American Water Spaniel
- ** Positive reinforcement is critical. They are sensitive dogs; harsh correction causes them to shut down or become defensive.
English Springer Spaniel
- They respond best to positive reinforcement - harsh corrections cause shutdown or fearfulness
- Use their high food motivation to your advantage
- Channel their cooperative nature into obedience, agility, or rally
American Water Spaniel Considerations
Unlike many spaniels that greet everyone as a friend, the AWS is naturally reserved and can be suspicious of strangers. Without extensive early socialization (between 8–16 weeks), this trait can escalate into fear-based reactivity or excessive territorial barking. They are watchdogs first, greeters second.
This breed is prone to becoming a "Velcro dog." They bond intensely with their primary handler and often struggle when left alone. This can manifest as destructive chewing, pacing, or frantic vocalization (whining/howling) if isolation training is not prioritized early.
The AWS has a tenacious working heritage. This drive can sometimes translate into possessiveness over food, toys, or high-value chews. It is a manageable trait but requires an owner who understands trade-up protocols rather than forceful removal.
While eager to please in the field, they can be manipulative and independent in the home. They are not blindly obedient; they often ask "What's in it for me?" before complying.
English Springer Spaniel Considerations
Bred to work cooperatively with humans, Springers don't thrive in isolation. Left alone for 6+ hours, they frequently develop destructive behaviors (chewing, digging) and distress vocalization.
Historically significant idiopathic aggression where the dog enters a trance-like state. Linked primarily to show/bench lines and low serotonin. True rage is distinct from resource guarding.
A bored Springer is a destructive Springer. They require 60-120 minutes of daily exercise. Under-exercised Springers become hyperactive, vocal, and destructive.
If there is mud, they will find it. Their feathering acts as a mop, tracking water and dirt everywhere. Not ideal for pristine households.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | Caution - may chase | Generally good if raised together - may try to 'flush' them playfully |
| Small Mammals | Supervision required | High risk - rabbits and hamsters trigger prey drive |
| Birds / Reptiles | Caution advised | High risk - they are bird dogs, poultry are prey |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Medium | Arrested |
| Biddability | Low | High |
| Noise Sensitivity | Low | Low |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | 18 months | N/A |
English Springer Spaniel: Predatory sequence: Orient → Eye → Stalk → Chase → Flush (Spring) → Grab-Bite (Soft) → Retrieve. Kill/dissect portion is inhibited - soft mouth for retrieving game. Works *with* you, not just *for* you.
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 6-18 | 6-18 |
| House Training | Moderate | Easy |
| Crate Training | Medium | High |
| Adolescent Regression |
American Water Spaniel: American Water Spaniel puppies require consistent training and patience.
English Springer Spaniel: High-energy and mouthy puppies. Adolescence (6-24 months) is the 'testing' phase - recall may vanish. Consistency is vital.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 12 months | 18 months |
| Adolescence | 6-18 | 6-24 |
| Adult Years | 2-8 | 2-8 |
| Senior Onset | ~8 years | ~9 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-3 years | 1-3 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 38-46 cm | 48-51 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Medium | Medium |
| Lifespan | 10–14 years | 12–14 years |
| Litter Size | 4-8 | 4-10 |
American Water Spaniel Coat
English Springer Spaniel Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Developed in the Fox and Wolf River valleys of Wisconsin during the mid-19th century, the AWS was th | Flushing (springing) and retrieving game birds for hunters |
| Origin | small skiffs (canoes) | England, 1800s (officially separated from Cocker Spaniel in 1902) |
Breeding Details
| Detail | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Varies | 10-20% |
| Whelping Difficulty | Medium | Easy to Medium |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | Low | Medium |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Low | Low |
| Min Fence Height | 1.5m | 1.5m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Low | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
American Water Spaniel Health Issues
English Springer Spaniel Health Issues
American Water Spaniel Suggested Tests
- DNA test for Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)
- OFA Hip Evaluation
- CAER (Ophthalmologist) Eye Exam
- Cardiac Exam
English Springer Spaniel Suggested Tests
- PRA (cord1) DNA test
- PFK deficiency DNA test
- OFA/PennHIP hip evaluation
- OFA elbow evaluation
- Ophthalmologist evaluation
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Medium | Medium |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | Low |
| Neurological Risk | Low | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Low | Medium |
| Vet Burden Tier | Medium | Medium |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Low | Medium |
| Food Allergies | Chicken, Grain |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Normal |
| Eye Care Needs | Low | Medium |
| Anal Gland Issues | Occasional | Occasional |
Senior Care & Aging
American Water Spaniel Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis
- Vision decline
- Cognitive changes
Senior care varies by individual health.
English Springer Spaniel Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis/joint stiffness
- Vision/hearing loss
- Cognitive decline
- Hip dysplasia progression
Slow down around 9+ but often remain active. Watch for arthritis and vision/hearing loss.
Grooming & Care
American Water Spaniel
high maintenanceEnglish Springer Spaniel
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
American Water Spaniel Daily Life
English Springer Spaniel Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Under 50lbs | 25-50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | Medium | High |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Excellent |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Low | Medium |
| Therapy Dog | Low | High |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Medium |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | N/A | $1,000-2,500 |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,000–$2,500 | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $90–$130 | $120–$200 |
| Yearly Range | $1,080–$1,560 | $2,000–$2,500 |
| Food / Month | $50-70 | $50-80 |
| Insurance / Month | $40-60 | $35-55 |
| Grooming / Session | N/A | $50-100 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $300-500 | $400-800 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
American Water Spaniel Lifetime Cost
N/A
English Springer Spaniel Lifetime Cost
$20,000-35,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | American Water Spaniel | English Springer Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Occasional | Occasional |
| Slobber Level | Low | Light |
| Smell When Wet | Moderate | Moderate |
| Zoomies Frequency | Occasional | Daily |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Low | Medium |
English Springer Spaniel Quirks
Mud Magnets
If there is mud, they will find it. Their feathering acts as a mop for water and dirt.
The Spring
They literally spring/bounce through tall grass to see over it - this is the behavior they were bred for.
Submissive Urination
Some Springers, especially females, may urinate when overly excited or greeted. Usually fades with age and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Turn your dog into a brand deal.
Pet brands are looking for authentic creators — not celebrities. If you own a American Water Spaniel or English Springer Spaniel, you can get free products, gear, and exclusive perks just for sharing your dog's life on Instagram.
No followers minimum · Free to join
Compare with Other Breeds
Compare American Water Spaniel with:
Compare English Springer Spaniel with:
Based on comprehensive breed research data.
View American Water Spaniel profile·View English Springer Spaniel profile