Catahoula Leopard Dog vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Catahoula Leopard Dog: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Catahoula Leopard Dog: Independent0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Catahoula Leopard Dog: N/A
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Catahoula Leopard Dog3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Catahoula Leopard Dog3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Catahoula Leopard Dog3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Catahoula Leopard Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Multiple conditions
Deafness: Common in merle dogs
Cardiac Issues: Heart conditions
Skeletal Issues: Growth related
Joint Problems: Activity impact
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
Catahoula Leopard Dog
Pros
Excellent working ability
Strong protective instincts
Highly intelligent
Athletic and versatile
Cons
Strong-willed nature
High exercise needs
Can be territorial
Not for novice owners
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
Catahoula Leopard Dog Fun Fact
Their webbed feet and unique eye colors make them excellent swimmers and trackers in swamp environments.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Catahoula Leopard Dog
Origin:
Developed in Louisiana during the 18th century, these dogs were bred to hunt wild boar and help with cattle herding in challenging swamp terrain.
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
Catahoula Leopard Dog
Requires extensive socialization, firm training approach, and plenty of physical activity. Coat needs minimal grooming but sheds moderately.
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
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