Irish Water Spaniel vs Drever
Breed Compatibility
73% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Drever: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Drever: May be Stubborn0.2
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Drever: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Drever5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Drever5/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Drever4/5
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
Drever
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Back Problems: Due to long body shape
Eye Issues: Progressive retinal concerns
Ear Infections: Due to drooping ears
Obesity: Weight management needed
Joint Issues: Regular monitoring needed
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
Drever
Pros
Excellent tracking abilities
Good family companion
Adaptable to different environments
Low grooming needs
Cons
Can be stubborn
Requires secure fencing
Moderate exercise needs
May be vocal
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Drever Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Drevers were specifically bred to hunt deer, showing remarkable tracking abilities.
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.
Drever
Origin:
Developed in Sweden during the early 20th century, these skilled hunters specialized in tracking and pursuing deer, particularly in dense forest environments.
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.
Drever
Requires secure fencing due to strong hunting instincts. Regular back health monitoring needed. Moderate grooming needs with occasional brushing.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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