Irish Water Spaniel vs American Foxhound
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
American Foxhound: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
American Foxhound: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
American Foxhound: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
American Foxhound5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
American Foxhound5/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
American Foxhound3/5
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
American Foxhound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Thrombocytopathy: Blood clotting disorder
Ear Infections: Due to long ears
Eye Problems: Various conditions possible
Epilepsy: Neurological condition risk
Dental Issues: Regular cleaning needed
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
American Foxhound
Pros
Excellent endurance
Good with families
Low grooming needs
Friendly nature
Cons
Strong prey drive
Independent nature
Needs lots of exercise
Can be vocal
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
American Foxhound Fun Fact
George Washington played a crucial role in developing the American Foxhound breed we know today.
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.
American Foxhound
Origin:
Developed in Virginia during the 1700s, these hounds excelled in fox hunting across challenging terrain. Their exceptional scenting abilities and stamina made them invaluable hunting companions.
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.
American Foxhound
Requires secure fencing due to strong prey drive. Regular exercise essential. Ear cleaning needed frequently. May be vocal - not ideal for noise-restricted areas.
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