Irish Water Spaniel vs Field Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Field Spaniel: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Field Spaniel: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Field Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Field Spaniel5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Field Spaniel4/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Field Spaniel4/5
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
Field Spaniel
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Ear Infections: Due to long ears
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Heart Issues: Various cardiac concerns
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
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
Field Spaniel
Pros
Gentle temperament
Good with families
Sporting abilities
Moderate exercise needs
Cons
Regular grooming required
Can be reserved with strangers
Prone to ear infections
Needs consistent training
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Field Spaniel Fun Fact
Field Spaniels were once bred to be so long and low they nearly lost their sporting 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.
Field Spaniel
Origin:
Developed in England during the 19th century for retrieving game birds from fields and water. Their specialized skills made them valuable hunting companions for sportsmen.
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.
Field Spaniel
Weekly grooming sessions needed for coat maintenance. Regular ear cleaning essential. Moderate exercise requirements must be met for optimal physical and mental health.
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