Irish Water Spaniel vs Bedlington Terrier
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Bedlington Terrier: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Bedlington Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Bedlington Terrier: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Bedlington Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Bedlington Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Bedlington Terrier3/5
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
Bedlington Terrier
Copper Toxicosis: Liver copper buildup
Retinal Disease: Vision deterioration
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Renal Disease: Kidney dysfunction
Distichiasis: Abnormal eyelash growth
Heart Issues: Cardiac complications
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
Bedlington Terrier
Pros
Low-shedding coat
Affectionate with family
Good with children
Athletic and agile
Cons
Regular grooming required
Can be stubborn
Moderate exercise needs
May chase small animals
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Bedlington Terrier Fun Fact
Their distinctive lamb-like appearance earned them the nickname 'Rothbury's Lamb' in their native England.
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.
Bedlington Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Northumberland mining region during the 1800s to hunt vermin and small game. Valued for their speed and agility in both water and land pursuits.
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.
Bedlington Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed every 6-8 weeks. Daily exercise essential. Monitor for signs of copper toxicosis and eye issues.
Shedding
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