Boston Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Boston Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Boston Terrier: Eager to Please1.0
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Boston Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Boston Terrier5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Boston Terrier4/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Boston Terrier5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Boston Terrier
Brachycephalic Syndrome: Breathing issues
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap problems
Cataracts: Vision deterioration
Cherry Eye: Third eyelid disorder
Deafness: Hearing loss risk
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac 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
Boston Terrier
Pros
Great with families
Compact size
Low grooming needs
Adaptable
Friendly personality
Cons
Breathing difficulties
Heat sensitive
Potential snoring
Some stubbornness
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
Boston Terrier Fun Fact
Known as 'American Gentleman' due to their tuxedo-like coat pattern and gentle, courteous nature.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Boston Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Boston, Massachusetts during the 1870s, these dogs were bred from bull and terrier types to create a refined companion dog for city dwellers.
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
Boston Terrier
Sensitive to extreme temperatures due to flat face. Regular eye cleaning needed. Moderate exercise requirements with attention to breathing during activity.
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
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