Irish Water Spaniel vs Australian Kelpie
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Australian Kelpie: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Australian Kelpie: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Australian Kelpie: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Australian Kelpie3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Australian Kelpie3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Australian Kelpie3/5
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
Australian Kelpie
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
PRA: Progressive eye condition
CEA: Collie eye anomaly concerns
Cryptorchidism: Testicle retention
Cerebellar Abiotrophy: Brain disorder
Luxating Patella: Kneecap issues
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
Australian Kelpie
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent work ethic
Low maintenance coat
Exceptional agility
Strong herding instincts
Cons
Requires extensive exercise
Can be too intense for novice owners
May herd children and pets
Needs constant mental stimulation
Can be stubborn if not properly trained
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Australian Kelpie Fun Fact
Kelpies can cover up to 50 kilometers in a day while working, demonstrating their legendary endurance.
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.
Australian Kelpie
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s for sheep herding in harsh outback conditions. Renowned for their exceptional stamina and working abilities in challenging terrain.
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.
Australian Kelpie
Needs extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Early training and socialization essential for managing herding instincts.
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