Collie vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
64% Compatible
Energy Level
Collie: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Collie: Easy Training0.8
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Collie: 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
Collie/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Collie/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Collie/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Collie
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
CEA: Collie Eye Anomaly condition
PRA: Progressive Retinal Atrophy
MDR1: Drug sensitivity mutation
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
DM: Degenerative Myelopathy concern
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
Collie
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Loyal and protective
Elegant appearance
Cons
Heavy shedding
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Sensitive personality
Needs consistent exercise
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
Collie Fun Fact
Lassie, the famous TV collie, was actually played by male dogs because they maintained better coats for filming!
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Collie
Origin:
Developed in Scotland's Highland regions during the 1800s, Collies served as premier sheep herding dogs, masterfully managing flocks across challenging terrains.
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
Collie
Regular brushing needed to maintain coat condition. Exercise requirements must be met daily. Health screening for breed-specific conditions is essential.
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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