Irish Water Spaniel vs Keeshond
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Keeshond: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Keeshond: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Keeshond: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Keeshond5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Keeshond5/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Keeshond5/5
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
Keeshond
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint issues
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap problems
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Eye Problems: Vision disorders
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
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
Keeshond
Pros
Excellent family companion
Good with children
Intelligent and trainable
Alert watchdog
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
Heavy shedding
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Needs regular exercise
May be stubborn
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Keeshond Fun Fact
Their distinctive facial markings, resembling glasses, are called 'spectacles' and are a hallmark of the breed.
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.
Keeshond
Origin:
Dutch barge dogs from the 17th century, serving as watchdogs and companions on riverboats along Amsterdam's waterways. Valued for their alertness and loyalty.
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.
Keeshond
Regular brushing needed to maintain coat. Moderate exercise requirements must be met. Watch for overheating in warm weather due to thick double coat.
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