German Shepherd Dog vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
85% Compatible
Energy Level
German Shepherd Dog: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
German Shepherd Dog: Eager to Please1.0
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
German Shepherd Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
German Shepherd Dog5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
German Shepherd Dog3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
German Shepherd Dog3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
German Shepherd Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint abnormality
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
DM: Degenerative myelopathy
EPI: Digestive enzyme deficiency
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting
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
German Shepherd Dog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Loyal
Versatile
Protective
Trainable
Cons
Heavy shedding
High exercise needs
Can be overprotective
Health issues
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
German Shepherd Dog Fun Fact
German Shepherds have starred in numerous films and were among the first dogs trained as guide dogs for the blind.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
German Shepherd Dog
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the late 1800s as a herding and working dog. Max von Stephanitz standardized the breed for military and police work, emphasizing utility and intelligence.
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
German Shepherd Dog
Regular brushing needed during heavy shedding seasons. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Hip and joint health monitoring essential throughout life.
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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