Irish Water Spaniel vs Azawakh
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Azawakh: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Azawakh: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Azawakh: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Azawakh3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Azawakh3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Azawakh1/5
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
Azawakh
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Cardiac issues: Heart conditions
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye problems: Various conditions
Autoimmune disorders: Various types
Skin sensitivity: Environmental
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
Azawakh
Pros
Loyal and devoted to family
Excellent watchdog
Low grooming needs
Athletic and graceful
Cons
Independent nature makes training challenging
Strong prey drive
Requires significant exercise
Can be aloof with strangers
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Azawakh Fun Fact
Azawakhs can reach speeds of up to 40 mph and were traditionally used to hunt gazelles in the Sahara.
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.
Azawakh
Origin:
Ancient sighthound from West Africa's Sahel region, serving as guardians and hunters for nomadic Tuareg tribes. Prized for their ability to hunt gazelle in harsh desert conditions.
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.
Azawakh
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Needs protection in cold weather. Early socialization crucial for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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