Irish Water Spaniel vs Cairn Terrier
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Cairn Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Cairn Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Cairn Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Cairn Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Cairn Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Cairn Terrier3/5
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
Cairn Terrier
Craniomandibular Osteopathy: Jaw growth
Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy: Neural
Ocular Melanosis: Eye condition
Portosystemic Shunt: Liver issue
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clot
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision
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
Cairn Terrier
Pros
Excellent vermin hunter
Adaptable to various homes
Affectionate with family
Low maintenance grooming
Cons
Can be stubborn
May chase small animals
Tends to bark
Can be independent
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Cairn Terrier Fun Fact
Known as 'the best little pal in the world,' Cairns were once grouped with Scotties and West Highland Terriers.
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.
Cairn Terrier
Origin:
Developed in the Scottish Highlands during the 1800s to hunt foxes, badgers, and other vermin. These hardy dogs excelled at navigating rocky terrain and pursuing quarry.
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.
Cairn Terrier
Regular grooming needed to maintain coat. Requires consistent exercise and training. Watch for signs of common health issues like eye problems.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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