English Foxhound vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
English Foxhound: Energetic0.8
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
English Foxhound: Agreeable0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
English Foxhound: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
English Foxhound5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
English Foxhound5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
English Foxhound4/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
English Foxhound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Renal Disease: Kidney function issues
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Thrombocytopathy: Blood clotting issue
Eye Problems: Various ocular concerns
Ear Infections: Chronic inflammation
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
English Foxhound
Pros
Excellent endurance
Good with other dogs
Gentle temperament
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise needs
Strong hunting instincts
Not apartment suitable
Can be vocal
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
English Foxhound Fun Fact
English Foxhounds are so rarely kept as pets that they're one of the rarest AKC-registered breeds!
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
English Foxhound
Origin:
Developed in England during the 16th century, these hounds excelled in fox hunting across vast territories. Their remarkable stamina and tracking abilities made them essential to traditional British foxhunts.
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
English Foxhound
Requires secure fencing due to strong hunting instincts. Regular exercise essential. Moderate grooming needs but vocal nature may not suit close neighbors.
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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