Breed comparison
Alaskan Malamute vs American Water Spaniel
How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.
3Affection with family3
3Good with young children3
3Good with other dogs3
3Openness to strangers3
3Playfulness3
4Energy level3
5Trainability5
3Mental stimulation needs3
3Adaptability3
4Watchdog / protective3
3Barking3
3Shedding1
3Coat grooming3
1Drooling1
The biggest differences
- Shedding: the Alaskan Malamute scores 3 out of 5, the American Water Spaniel 1.
They score the same on affection with family, good with young children, good with other dogs, openness to strangers, playfulness, trainability.
Which one should you choose?
Pick the Alaskan Malamute if you want an energetic exercise partner, you want a more protective watchdog. Pick the American Water Spaniel if you prefer a calmer dog, you want less dog hair.
Ratings are general breed tendencies from the AKC. Every dog is an individual, so meet the dog, and its parents if you can, before you decide. Not sure? Try the breed selector.
Source: American Kennel Club breed ratings (compiled February 2022). How we check.