Irish Water Spaniel vs Kromfohrlander
Breed Compatibility
91% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Kromfohrlander: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Kromfohrlander: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Kromfohrlander: 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
Kromfohrlander4/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Kromfohrlander3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Kromfohrlander4/5
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
Kromfohrlander
Hip dysplasia: joint malformation
Patellar luxation: kneecap issues
Eye problems: hereditary concerns
Dental issues: regular care needed
Skin allergies: environmental factors
Ear infections: regular monitoring
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
Kromfohrlander
Pros
Intelligent and trainable
Good family companion
Moderate exercise needs
Adaptable to different homes
Cons
Rare and hard to find
Can be sensitive
Regular grooming needed
May be reserved with strangers
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Kromfohrlander Fun Fact
Named after a camp follower who helped establish the breed, making it one of few dogs named after a person.
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.
Kromfohrlander
Origin:
Developed in Germany during the 1940s as companion dogs, stemming from a mascot dog named 'Original Peter' found by American troops during World War II.
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.
Kromfohrlander
Regular grooming needed for both coat varieties. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. May display sensitivity to harsh training methods.
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