Brussels Griffon vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Brussels Griffon: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Brussels Griffon: Agreeable0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Brussels Griffon: 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
Brussels Griffon3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Brussels Griffon3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Brussels Griffon4/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Brussels Griffon
Syringomyelia: Neurological condition
Patellar luxation: Knee issues
Eye problems: Various conditions
Heart defects: Cardiac concerns
Hip dysplasia: Joint problems
Respiratory issues: Breathing
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
Brussels Griffon
Pros
Affectionate with family
Good apartment dog
Low exercise needs
Intelligent
Alert watchdog
Cons
Can be stubborn
Sensitive to harsh correction
May be vocal
Not ideal with young children
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
Brussels Griffon Fun Fact
Their expressive faces and human-like eyes earned them the nickname 'monkey face' dogs!
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Brussels Griffon
Origin:
Developed in Belgium during the 1800s to hunt rats in stables and coach houses. These small but fierce ratters became popular companions among Brussels coachmen.
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
Brussels Griffon
Regular grooming needed for rough-coated varieties. Sensitive to extreme temperatures. Require consistent training approach due to their sometimes stubborn nature.
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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