Irish Water Spaniel vs Brittany
Breed Compatibility
88% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Brittany: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Brittany: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Brittany: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Brittany4/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Brittany4/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Brittany3/5
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
Brittany
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Joint Problems: Mobility issues
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
Brittany
Pros
Highly trainable
Excellent hunting companion
Affectionate family dog
Athletic and agile
Good with children
Cons
High exercise needs
Can be strong-willed
Requires regular activity
May be too energetic for some
Needs consistent training
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Brittany Fun Fact
Brittanys are born natural hunters - some puppies instinctively point at birds as young as 8 weeks old!
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.
Brittany
Origin:
Developed in France's Brittany province during the 1800s, these dogs excelled as versatile hunting companions, particularly skilled at pointing and retrieving game birds.
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.
Brittany
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Early socialization and training essential for balanced temperament.
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