Irish Water Spaniel vs Ibizan Hound
Breed Compatibility
88% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Ibizan Hound: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Ibizan Hound: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Ibizan Hound: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Ibizan Hound3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Ibizan Hound5/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Ibizan Hound3/5
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
Ibizan Hound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Retinal Issues: Vision deterioration
Seizures: Neurological concerns
Allergies: Environmental sensitivity
Deafness: Hearing loss potential
Dental Issues: Oral health problems
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
Ibizan Hound
Pros
Elegant and athletic
Low grooming needs
Good with other dogs
Gentle with family
Cons
High prey drive
Independent nature
Needs secure fencing
Exercise intensive
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Ibizan Hound Fun Fact
These agile hounds can jump up to 6 feet high from a standing position and excel at catching rabbits mid-leap!
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.
Ibizan Hound
Origin:
Ancient sighthound from Balearic Islands, particularly Ibiza, developed for hunting rabbits and small game across rough terrain during the 8th century BC.
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.
Ibizan Hound
Secure fencing essential due to prey drive and jumping ability. Regular exercise crucial. Gentle grooming needed but minimal coat maintenance required.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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