Irish Water Spaniel vs Newfoundland
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Newfoundland: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Newfoundland: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Newfoundland: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Newfoundland5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Newfoundland5/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Newfoundland5/5
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
Newfoundland
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint problems
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Bloat: Gastric complications
SAS: Heart valve condition
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
Newfoundland
Pros
Excellent with children
Gentle and patient
Strong swimming abilities
Loyal and protective
Good therapy dogs
Cons
Heavy shedding
Excessive drooling
Expensive to maintain
Need lots of space
Short lifespan
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Newfoundland Fun Fact
Newfoundlands have a special swimming stroke named after them - the 'Newfie paddle'!
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.
Newfoundland
Origin:
Developed in Newfoundland during the 1700s, these powerful dogs served as water rescue dogs and fishing assistants, helping fishermen haul nets and pull carts of fish to market.
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.
Newfoundland
Regular grooming essential for coat maintenance. Need controlled exercise to protect developing joints. Must monitor for signs of heat sensitivity and heart issues.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Irish Water Spaniel vs Boykin Spaniel →Similar Size
Irish Water Spaniel vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Irish Water Spaniel vs Afghan Hound →