Australian Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
Australian Terrier: Energetic0.8
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Australian Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Australian Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Australian Terrier5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Australian Terrier3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Australian Terrier3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Australian Terrier
Diabetes: Blood sugar regulation issues
Luxating Patella: Kneecap dislocation
Legg-Perthes: Hip joint degeneration
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Cruciate Ligament: Knee joint problems
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
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 Terrier
Pros
Compact size
Low grooming needs
Loyal companion
Good watchdog
Adaptable
Intelligent
Cons
Can be stubborn
May bark frequently
Strong prey drive
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 Terrier Fun Fact
Australian Terriers were the first native Australian breed to be recognized and shown in their homeland!
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Australian Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s, these terriers excelled at controlling rats and snakes in gold mines and sheep stations, proving invaluable to colonial settlers.
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 Terrier
Regular brushing needed to maintain coat. Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Early socialization important 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.
Shedding
InfrequentShedding
SeasonalRelated Comparisons
Same Group
Australian Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier →Same Group
Australian Terrier vs Welsh Terrier →Similar Size
Australian Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier →Similar Size
Australian Terrier vs Japanese Chin →