Irish Water Spaniel vs Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog
Breed Compatibility
89% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog1/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog1/5
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 Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive eye condition
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Allergies: Environmental sensitivity
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 Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent working dog
Low grooming needs
Loyal and protective
Cons
High exercise needs
Can be stubborn
May herd children
Requires early socialization
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog Fun Fact
One of few breeds naturally born with a short tail, unlike other bobtail breeds where tails are docked.
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 Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1800s for cattle herding in harsh conditions. These dogs worked tirelessly in remote areas, managing livestock across vast distances.
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 Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog
Needs early socialization and training to manage herding instincts. Regular exercise crucial. Monitor for hearing and vision issues throughout life.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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