Irish Water Spaniel vs Bergamasco Sheepdog
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Bergamasco Sheepdog: Calm0.4
Less Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Bergamasco Sheepdog: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Bergamasco Sheepdog: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Bergamasco Sheepdog3/5
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
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye problems: Progressive conditions
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Elbow dysplasia: Joint issues
Allergies: Skin sensitivities
Dental issues: Periodontal disease
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
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Pros
Excellent guardian instincts
Low-shedding coat
Intelligent and trainable
Good with families
Cons
Complex grooming needs
Strong-willed nature
Requires experienced owner
Needs regular exercise
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Bergamasco Sheepdog Fun Fact
Their unique matted coat can take up to five years to fully develop into its characteristic flocked appearance.
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.
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Origin:
Dating back to ancient Persia, these dogs served as guardians and herders in the Italian Alps, particularly in the Bergamo region, protecting sheep from predators.
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.
Bergamasco Sheepdog
Unique coat requires specific grooming knowledge. Regular exercise essential for mental stimulation. Monitor for common health issues like hip dysplasia.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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