Irish Water Spaniel vs American Staffordshire Terrier
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
American Staffordshire Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
American Staffordshire Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
American Staffordshire Terrier: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
American Staffordshire Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
American Staffordshire Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
American Staffordshire Terrier4/5
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 Staffordshire Terrier
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Heart Disease: Cardiac concerns
Skin Allergies: Dermatitis issues
Thyroid Problems: Hormone imbalance
Eye Issues: Progressive retinal
CCL Tears: Knee ligament damage
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 Staffordshire Terrier
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent with children
Strong and athletic
Easy to groom
Cons
Strong prey drive
Need extensive socialization
May be dog aggressive
High exercise needs
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
American Staffordshire Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their muscular appearance, AmStaffs are often called 'nanny dogs' due to their gentle nature with children.
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 Staffordshire Terrier
Origin:
Developed in 19th century America from English bull-and-terrier breeds, these dogs served as all-purpose farm dogs and family guardians throughout the American heartland.
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 Staffordshire Terrier
Needs early socialization, consistent training, and regular exercise. Careful introduction to other pets required. Regular health monitoring for breed-specific issues essential.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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