Irish Water Spaniel vs Kishu Ken
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Kishu Ken: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Kishu Ken: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Kishu Ken: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Kishu Ken3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Kishu Ken3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Kishu Ken5/5
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
Kishu Ken
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal issues
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Dental Disease: Oral health problems
Joint Issues: Mobility complications
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
Kishu Ken
Pros
Loyal and devoted
Excellent hunting abilities
Clean and easy to groom
Athletic and agile
Cons
Strong prey drive
Independent nature
Can be reserved with strangers
Requires experienced handler
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Kishu Ken Fun Fact
White coat was specifically bred for visibility during night hunts in dense Japanese forests.
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.
Kishu Ken
Origin:
Developed in Japan's mountainous regions during the 1930s, the Kishu Ken served as a skilled hunter of wild boar and deer, demonstrating remarkable tracking and hunting abilities.
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.
Kishu Ken
Needs secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Regular brushing during shedding seasons. Early socialization essential for balanced temperament.
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