Irish Water Spaniel vs Briard
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Briard: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Briard: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Briard: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Briard3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Briard3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Briard3/5
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
Briard
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Bloat: Digestive emergency condition
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting disorder
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
Briard
Pros
Loyal and protective
Excellent herding instincts
Good with children
Intelligent
Cons
High grooming needs
Strong-willed nature
Reserved with strangers
Requires extensive exercise
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Briard Fun Fact
Napoleon reportedly praised Briards for their courage and loyalty during military campaigns.
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.
Briard
Origin:
French herding dogs from the 8th century, Briards protected and guided sheep flocks across the Brie region. Their versatility extended to military service in both World Wars.
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.
Briard
Daily brushing required to prevent matting. Need consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Regular health monitoring for breed-specific issues essential.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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