American Water Spaniel vs Sussex Spaniel: full comparison
| Trait | American Water Spaniel | Sussex Spaniel |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Energy level | High | Low |
| Trainability | High | Medium |
| Friendliness | High | High |
| Good with children | High | High |
| Grooming needs | Medium | Medium |
| Shedding | Medium | Medium |
| Barking | Medium | Medium |
| Protectiveness | Medium | Low |
| Adaptability | Medium | Medium |
| Typical lifespan | 13 years | 13 years |
| Hypoallergenic | No | No |
Key differences at a glance
- The American Water Spaniel has noticeably higher energy than the Sussex Spaniel.
Which should you choose?
Choose the American Water Spaniel if you want a more energetic partner for sport and adventure, you want an easier dog to train, or you want a more protective, watchful guardian.
Choose the Sussex Spaniel if you want a calmer, lower-energy companion.
Not sure which breed is right for you?
Take the DoggyQ quiz and get a personalised match from 200+ breeds based on your lifestyle, home and preferences.
Find your perfect match Try the free quizFrequently asked questions
- Is the American Water Spaniel or the Sussex Spaniel better for families with children?
- Both the American Water Spaniel and the Sussex Spaniel are considered good with children when properly socialised and supervised.
- Which sheds more, the American Water Spaniel or the Sussex Spaniel?
- The American Water Spaniel and Sussex Spaniel shed a similar amount (medium).
- Which is easier to train, the American Water Spaniel or the Sussex Spaniel?
- The American Water Spaniel is generally the easier of the two to train, making it a better pick for less experienced owners.