Australian Cattle Dog vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Cattle Dog: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Cattle Dog: May be Stubborn0.2
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Cattle Dog: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Cattle Dog3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Cattle Dog3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Cattle Dog3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Cattle Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss risk
OCD: Obsessive behavioral patterns
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Eye Problems: Various ocular concerns
Irish Water Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Ear Infections: Due to water exposure
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Follicular Dysplasia: Coat abnormalities
Pros & Cons Comparison
Australian Cattle Dog
Pros
Extremely loyal and protective
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Great endurance
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Can be stubborn
May nip at heels
Needs constant mental stimulation
Can be territorial
Irish Water Spaniel
Pros
Excellent swimming ability
Intelligent and trainable
Low-shedding coat
Devoted family companion
Cons
High grooming needs
Requires extensive exercise
Can be reserved with strangers
Prone to ear infections
Australian Cattle Dog Fun Fact
These dogs often have a unique mask-like marking around their eyes, earning them the nickname 'masked merle.'
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Cattle Dog
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s for cattle herding in harsh outback conditions. These dogs were bred to manage livestock across vast distances with minimal supervision.
Irish Water Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in Ireland during the 1830s for retrieving waterfowl from cold waters and rough terrain. Prized for their water-resistant coat and exceptional swimming abilities.
Special Considerations
Australian Cattle Dog
Needs extensive exercise and mental stimulation daily. Regular brushing required during shedding seasons. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.
Irish Water Spaniel
Regular coat maintenance required. Needs access to swimming opportunities. Ears must be checked frequently due to water exposure and long ear canals.
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