Alaskan Malamute vs American Water Spaniel

Side-by-side comparison — size, temperament, traits, costs, and health

Alaskan Malamute
Category
American Water Spaniel

📏 Physical Stats

65 - 100
Weight (lbs)
25 - 45
23 - 25
Height (inches)
15 - 18
12 - 15 years
Life Expectancy
10 - 12 years
Working
Breed Group
Sporting
Alaska
Origin
United States
Hauling heavy freight, Sled pulling
Bred For
Bird flushing and retrieving

⚡ Temperament & Traits

Scores are 1–5 from breed data. Higher = more of that trait. Barking: lower is quieter.

3/5
Energy Level
4/5
Better
3/5
Better
Trainability
2/5
5/5
Good with Children
5/5
5/5
Good with Other Dogs
5/5
4/5
Grooming Needs
2/5
Better

💰 Cost of Ownership

Based on breed-specific cost data at a moderate care level — quality food, routine vet, occasional grooming, standard insurance. Actual costs vary by location and provider.

Annual Cost
$3,506
Alaskan Malamute
vs
Annual Cost
$2,427
American Water Spaniel
Alaskan Malamute
Expense
American Water Spaniel
$3,506
Annual Cost
$2,427
Lower ✓
$4,226
First Year
$3,147
Lower ✓
$48,051
Lifetime Total
$27,417
Lower ✓
$1,116
Food (annual)
$552
Lower ✓
$735
Vet Care (annual)
$630
Lower ✓
$550
Lower ✓
Grooming (annual)
$560
$1,080
Insurance (annual)
$660
Lower ✓
$90
Insurance (monthly)
$55
Lower ✓

Over their lifetimes, a American Water Spaniel (~11 yrs) costs approximately $20,634 less than a Alaskan Malamute (~14 yrs) in total.

🏥 Health Considerations

Health conditions listed are common concerns for these breeds or breed groups. Not every dog will develop these conditions. Regular vet check-ups are the best prevention.

🐾 Temperament

Alaskan Malamute

Friendly, Affectionate, Devoted, Loyal, Dignified, Playful, Brave, Gentle, Curious, Energetic, Independent, Quiet

American Water Spaniel

Friendly, Energetic, Obedient, Intelligent, Protective, Affectionate, Loyal, Playful, Curious