Irish Water Spaniel vs Estrela Mountain Dog
Breed Compatibility
81% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Estrela Mountain Dog: Calm0.4
Less Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Estrela Mountain Dog: N/A
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Estrela Mountain Dog: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Estrela Mountain Dog5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Estrela Mountain Dog3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Estrela Mountain Dog2/5
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
Estrela Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint inflammation
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Joint Problems: Mobility issues
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
Estrela Mountain Dog
Pros
Excellent guardian instincts
Loyal to family
Weather-resistant coat
Independent nature
Good with livestock
Cons
Requires extensive space
Strong-willed personality
Heavy shedding
Not suitable for apartments
Needs experienced owner
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Estrela Mountain Dog Fun Fact
These dogs traditionally wore spiked iron collars called 'carlancas' to protect their necks from wolf attacks.
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.
Estrela Mountain Dog
Origin:
Dating back to the Serra da Estrela mountains of Portugal, these dogs served as guardians of sheep flocks against wolves and other predators since the Middle Ages.
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.
Estrela Mountain Dog
Needs regular brushing during shedding seasons, extensive early socialization, and secure fencing. Guardian instincts require proper management and training.
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