Irish Water Spaniel vs Chihuahua
Breed Compatibility
84% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Chihuahua: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Chihuahua: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Chihuahua: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Chihuahua1/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Chihuahua3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Chihuahua2/5
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
Chihuahua
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac abnormalities
Hydrocephalus: Fluid in brain cavity
Dental Issues: Tooth overcrowding
Hypoglycemia: Low blood sugar risk
Tracheal Collapse: Airway weakness
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
Chihuahua
Pros
Highly portable
Long lifespan
Minimal space requirements
Strong loyalty to owners
Cons
Fragile physique
Can be yappy
May be aggressive if not socialized
Temperature sensitive
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Chihuahua Fun Fact
The smallest dog ever recorded was a Chihuahua named Miracle Milly, weighing only 1 pound at maturity.
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.
Chihuahua
Origin:
Revered companions in ancient Toltec civilization of Mexico, these small dogs served as sacred animals and cherished companions to nobility during the pre-Columbian era.
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.
Chihuahua
Requires protection from cold weather, careful handling due to fragile build, and attention to dental health. Regular grooming and consistent training essential.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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