English Toy Spaniel vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
English Toy Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
English Toy Spaniel: Independent0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
English Toy Spaniel: 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
English Toy Spaniel5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
English Toy Spaniel5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
English Toy Spaniel3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
English Toy Spaniel
Heart Disease: Mitral valve issues common
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Syringomyelia: Neurological condition
Dental Issues: Tooth overcrowding
Respiratory Issues: Due to flat face
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 Toy Spaniel
Pros
Gentle temperament
Good with families
Adaptable to apartment living
Affectionate nature
Cons
Regular grooming needed
Health issues common
Can be stubborn
Temperature sensitive
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 Toy Spaniel Fun Fact
King Charles II was so devoted to these spaniels that they were allowed to roam freely in all royal palaces.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
English Toy Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in England during the Tudor period as companions for nobility. Favored by King Charles II, these spaniels served as cherished royal lap dogs and palace companions.
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 Toy Spaniel
Regular grooming needed for coat maintenance. Moderate exercise requirements. Health monitoring important due to breed-specific conditions.
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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