Irish Water Spaniel vs Lhasa Apso
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Lhasa Apso: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Lhasa Apso: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Lhasa Apso: 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
Lhasa Apso3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Lhasa Apso3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Lhasa Apso3/5
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
Lhasa Apso
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Eye degeneration
Cherry Eye: Third eyelid inflammation
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Sebaceous Adenitis: Skin condition
Renal Dysplasia: Kidney development issue
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
Lhasa Apso
Pros
Loyal and devoted
Good apartment dog
Long lifespan
Minimal shedding
Excellent watchdog
Cons
High grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Reserved with strangers
Frequent barking
Independent nature
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Lhasa Apso Fun Fact
Lhasa Apsos were considered so sacred in Tibet that they could never be sold, only given as gifts.
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.
Lhasa Apso
Origin:
Serving as sentinel dogs in Tibetan monasteries and palaces since 800 BC, these alert watchdogs protected Buddhist monasteries and warned of approaching strangers.
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.
Lhasa Apso
Regular grooming essential for coat maintenance. Moderate exercise needs but requires consistent training. Watch for eye and joint health issues throughout life.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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