Berger Picard vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
100% Compatible
Energy Level
Berger Picard: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Berger Picard: Easy Training0.8
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Berger Picard: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Berger Picard3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Berger Picard3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Berger Picard3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Berger Picard
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Heart Disease: Cardiac concerns
Joint Problems: Elbow dysplasia
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
Berger Picard
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent herding instincts
Good with families
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise needs
Can be stubborn
May be reserved with strangers
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
Berger Picard Fun Fact
Nearly extinct after World War I, only two Berger Picards were registered in France by 1950.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Berger Picard
Origin:
French herding dogs from the Picardy region, these dogs worked as versatile farm helpers during the 17th century, excelling at both herding and guarding duties.
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
Berger Picard
Needs early socialization and consistent training. Regular exercise is crucial. Coat requires minimal grooming but regular brushing helps manage shedding.
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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