Irish Water Spaniel vs Akita
Breed Compatibility
88% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Akita: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Akita: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Akita: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Akita3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Akita1/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Akita2/5
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
Akita
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Bloat: Stomach torsion risk
PRA: Progressive eye disease
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance
Sebaceous Adenitis: Skin condition
VKH Syndrome: Autoimmune 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
Akita
Pros
Extremely loyal to family
Excellent guard dog
Clean and fastidious
Quiet unless necessary
Independent nature
Cons
Strong prey drive
Same-sex dog aggression
Not ideal for first-time owners
Heavy shedding
Strong-willed personality
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Akita Fun Fact
Hachiko, the famous Akita, waited nine years at Shibuya Station for his deceased owner's return.
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.
Akita
Origin: Japan
Developed in Japan's mountainous Akita prefecture during the 17th century, these dogs served as skilled big-game hunters and loyal guardians of nobility.
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.
Akita
Requires consistent grooming during shedding seasons, daily exercise regimen, and early socialization. Health screening for breed-specific conditions essential.
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