Irish Water Spaniel vs Great Dane
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Great Dane: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Great Dane: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Great Dane: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Great Dane3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Great Dane3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Great Dane3/5
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
Great Dane
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
DCM: Heart muscle disease
Eye problems: Vision issues
Wobbler syndrome: Spinal condition
Bone cancer: Higher risk breed
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
Great Dane
Pros
Gentle with family
Excellent guard dog
Minimal grooming needs
Adaptable personality
Cons
Short lifespan
High food costs
Space requirements
Health issues
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Great Dane Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, Great Danes were historically known as 'Apollo of dogs' for their elegance.
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.
Great Dane
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the 16th century as boar hunters and estate guardians. Later refined as noble companions, these dogs served both practical and prestigious roles.
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.
Great Dane
Prone to bloat - requires scheduled feeding and rest periods. Exercise needs careful monitoring during growth. Regular vet checks essential for early health issue detection.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Irish Water Spaniel vs Boykin Spaniel →Similar Size
Irish Water Spaniel vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Irish Water Spaniel vs Afghan Hound →