Belgian Tervuren vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
99% Compatible
Energy Level
Belgian Tervuren: Energetic0.8
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Belgian Tervuren: Easy Training0.8
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Belgian Tervuren: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Belgian Tervuren3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Belgian Tervuren3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Belgian Tervuren3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Belgian Tervuren
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Epilepsy: Neurological seizure disorder
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance concerns
Allergies: Environmental sensitivity
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
Belgian Tervuren
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent working dog
Loyal and protective
Athletic and agile
Good with family
Cons
High exercise needs
Intensive grooming required
Can be aloof with strangers
Strong herding instinct
Requires experienced owner
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
Belgian Tervuren Fun Fact
The Tervuren's distinctive black overlay on their coat naturally darkens with age, creating a unique appearance.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Belgian Tervuren
Origin:
Developed in Belgium during the 1800s as a versatile herding and guard dog for livestock. Valued for their exceptional working abilities and protective instincts in rural settings.
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
Belgian Tervuren
Regular grooming needed for double coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Early socialization and training essential 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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