English Springer Spaniel vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
92% Compatible
Energy Level
English Springer Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
English Springer Spaniel: Eager to Please1.0
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
English Springer Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
English Springer Spaniel3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
English Springer Spaniel4/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
English Springer Spaniel4/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
English Springer Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Ear Infections: Due to floppy ears
Phosphofructokinase: Metabolic disorder
Retinal Dysplasia: Eye development issue
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development problem
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 Springer Spaniel
Pros
Excellent family companion
Highly trainable
Athletic and versatile
Good with children
Cons
Requires regular exercise
Needs consistent grooming
Can be prone to ear infections
May be too energetic for some
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 Springer Spaniel Fun Fact
Their 'springing' hunting technique of flushing birds into flight gave this breed its distinctive name.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
English Springer Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1800s as skilled bird hunting dogs, specifically for flushing and retrieving game in varying terrain. Valued for exceptional nose work and stamina.
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 Springer Spaniel
Regular ear cleaning needed to prevent infections. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Coat needs routine maintenance to prevent matting.
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.