Irish Water Spaniel vs Norwegian Lundehund
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Norwegian Lundehund: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Norwegian Lundehund: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Norwegian Lundehund: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Norwegian Lundehund3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Norwegian Lundehund3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Norwegian Lundehund3/5
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
Norwegian Lundehund
Lundehund Syndrome: Digestive disorder
Patellar Luxation: Knee joint issues
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Dental Issues: Tooth loss risk
Gastric Issues: Digestive sensitivity
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
Norwegian Lundehund
Pros
Unique physical capabilities
Agile and athletic
Loyal family companion
Good with children
Cons
Rare and expensive
Special dietary needs
Health concerns
Strong hunting instincts
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Norwegian Lundehund Fun Fact
Only dog breed with six fully developed toes on each foot, a trait evolved for cliff climbing!
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.
Norwegian Lundehund
Origin:
Developed along Norwegian coastal regions during the 1600s, these dogs were bred to hunt puffins and other seabirds in narrow cliff crevices of the Lofoten Islands.
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.
Norwegian Lundehund
Requires specialized diet management, regular exercise with climbing opportunities, and careful monitoring of digestive health. Early socialization important.
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