Irish Water Spaniel vs Dachshund
Breed Compatibility
92% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Dachshund: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Dachshund: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Dachshund: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Dachshund3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Dachshund4/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Dachshund4/5
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
Dachshund
IVDD: Spinal disc disease risk
PRA: Progressive eye degeneration
Obesity: Weight management needed
Patella: Kneecap displacement
Heart: Valve disease concerns
Dental: Periodontal disease risk
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
Dachshund
Pros
Adaptable to various living situations
Affectionate with family
Good watchdogs
Minimal grooming needs
Cons
Can be stubborn during training
Prone to back problems
May be vocal
Can be challenging to housebreak
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Dachshund Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Dachshunds were bred to hunt badgers, with their name literally meaning 'badger dog' in German!
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.
Dachshund
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the 16th century, these skilled hunters excelled at pursuing badgers and other burrowing animals, with their name 'Dachshund' literally meaning 'badger dog'.
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.
Dachshund
Back injury prevention through proper handling and exercise control. Regular dental care needed. Weight management crucial for spine health.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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