Irish Water Spaniel vs Lakeland Terrier
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Lakeland Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Lakeland Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Lakeland Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Lakeland Terrier3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Lakeland Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Lakeland Terrier3/5
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
Lakeland Terrier
Hip dysplasia: joint malformation
Lens luxation: eye condition
von Willebrand's: blood disorder
Legg-Perthes: hip joint issue
Allergies: skin sensitivities
Dental issues: tooth decay risk
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
Lakeland Terrier
Pros
Low shedding
Adaptable
Good with families
Alert watchdog
Cons
Requires regular grooming
Can be stubborn
May chase small animals
Tendency to bark
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Lakeland Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Lakeland Terriers were brave enough to hunt foxes alongside much larger hounds!
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.
Lakeland Terrier
Origin:
Developed in the Lake District of England during the 1800s to hunt foxes and vermin. These agile terriers excelled at pursuing quarry through rocky terrain and water.
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.
Lakeland Terrier
Regular grooming needed for wire coat maintenance. Requires consistent exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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