Breed comparison
Pumi vs Spanish Water Dog
How the two breeds compare on the American Kennel Club's 1 to 5 trait ratings, and which one suits which home.
Spanish Water Dog5Affection with family5
3Good with young children4
3Good with other dogs3
3Openness to strangers3
4Playfulness4
5Energy level4
5Trainability4
5Mental stimulation needs5
4Adaptability3
4Watchdog / protective3
3Barking3
1Shedding1
2Coat grooming4
2Drooling2
The biggest differences
- Coat grooming: the Spanish Water Dog scores 4 out of 5, the Pumi 2.
They score the same on affection with family, good with other dogs, openness to strangers, playfulness, mental stimulation needs, barking.
Which one should you choose?
Pick the Pumi if you want an energetic exercise partner, you want a dog that is easier to train, you live in a smaller home or move often. Pick the Spanish Water Dog if you have young children, you prefer a calmer dog.
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.