Irish Water Spaniel vs German Longhaired Pointer
Breed Compatibility
80% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
German Longhaired Pointer: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
German Longhaired Pointer: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
German Longhaired Pointer: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
German Longhaired Pointer5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
German Longhaired Pointer4/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
German Longhaired Pointer4/5
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
German Longhaired Pointer
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive vision issues
Bloat: Digestive emergency concern
Ear Infections: Due to long ears
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting disorder
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
German Longhaired Pointer
Pros
Excellent hunting companion
Highly trainable
Good family dog
Versatile worker
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Not suited for apartment living
Strong hunting instincts
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
German Longhaired Pointer Fun Fact
These dogs can seamlessly switch between pointing and retrieving duties, a rare trait among hunting breeds.
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.
German Longhaired Pointer
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the 1800s as a versatile hunting companion, specializing in both pointing and retrieving game in varied terrain and water conditions.
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.
German Longhaired Pointer
Needs regular brushing to maintain coat. Requires extensive exercise and mental stimulation. Watch for signs of hip problems and bloat.
Shedding
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