Irish Water Spaniel vs Broholmer
Breed Compatibility
94% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Broholmer: Calm0.4
Less Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Broholmer: N/A
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Broholmer: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Broholmer3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Broholmer3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Broholmer3/5
Living Requirements
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
Broholmer
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issues
Bloat: Gastric torsion condition
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Eye Problems: Various ocular conditions
Joint Issues: Mobility 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
Broholmer
Pros
Loyal family companion
Excellent guardian
Gentle with family
Low barking tendency
Cons
Requires spacious living area
Heavy drooler
Not suitable for novice owners
Significant food costs
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Broholmer Fun Fact
Despite their imposing size, Broholmers were known as 'gentle giants' among Danish nobility.
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.
Broholmer
Origin:
Danish mastiff-type dogs emerged in the 18th century, serving as estate guardians and hunting companions for nobility. Their primary role involved protecting large properties and livestock.
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.
Broholmer
Regular grooming despite short coat, moderate exercise requirements despite size, and attention to potential joint issues due to large breed status.
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