Irish Water Spaniel vs Airedale Terrier
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Airedale Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Airedale Terrier: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Airedale Terrier: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Airedale Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Airedale Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Airedale Terrier3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
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
Airedale Terrier
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Skin Allergies: Various dermal reactions
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid gland disorder
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting disorder
Pros & Cons Comparison
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
Airedale Terrier
Pros
Intelligent and trainable
Excellent watchdog
Low shedding
Versatile working ability
Good with families
Cons
Requires regular grooming
Can be stubborn
High exercise needs
May chase small animals
Strong prey drive
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Airedale Terrier Fun Fact
Airedales served as military messenger dogs in World War I and were among the first police dogs in Britain.
Heritage & Purpose
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.
Airedale Terrier
Origin: England
Developed in the Aire Valley of Yorkshire during the 1800s, these versatile dogs excelled in hunting otters and vermin while serving as capable farm dogs and family protectors.
Special Considerations
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.
Airedale Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed every 8-12 weeks. Daily exercise requirements must be met. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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