Beagle vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
Beagle: Energetic0.8
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Beagle: Agreeable0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Beagle: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Beagle5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Beagle5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Beagle3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Beagle
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Cherry eye and glaucoma
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Disk Disease: Spinal issues
Ear Infections: Chronic 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
Beagle
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Low grooming needs
Friendly disposition
Adaptable to various homes
Cons
Strong hunting instincts
Frequent barking
Can be stubborn
Escape artists
Food motivated/prone to obesity
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
Beagle Fun Fact
Beagles have approximately 220 million scent receptors, compared to a human's mere 5 million!
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Beagle
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1500s for hunting rabbits and hares in packs. Their keen sense of smell and tracking abilities made them preferred hunting companions.
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
Beagle
Require secure fencing to prevent escapes. Need regular exercise to prevent boredom. Prone to weight gain if overfed. Regular ear checks essential due to infection risk.
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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