Hovawart vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
84% Compatible
Energy Level
Hovawart: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Hovawart: May be Stubborn0.2
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Hovawart: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Hovawart4/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Hovawart4/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Hovawart4/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Hovawart
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Heart Disease: Cardiac health concerns
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
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
Hovawart
Pros
Loyal and protective
Intelligent
Good with family
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Strong-willed
Needs extensive training
High exercise needs
Reserved with strangers
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
Hovawart Fun Fact
Hovawarts were mentioned in German law books from the 13th century as valuable property worth defending.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Hovawart
Origin:
Developed in medieval Germany as estate guardians and working farm dogs. Black Forest farmers valued these dogs for their protective instincts and versatile working abilities.
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
Hovawart
Needs consistent training from an early age. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Exercise requirements must be met daily to prevent behavioral issues.
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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