Irish Water Spaniel vs Pharaoh Hound
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Pharaoh Hound: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Pharaoh Hound: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Pharaoh Hound: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Pharaoh Hound3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Pharaoh Hound5/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Pharaoh Hound3/5
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
Pharaoh Hound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Eye Problems: Various ocular issues
Cardiac Issues: Heart health concerns
Thyroid Problems: Hormone imbalances
Dental Issues: Oral health maintenance
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
Pharaoh Hound
Pros
Elegant and graceful
Low grooming needs
Athletic and agile
Gentle with family
Cons
Strong prey drive
Independent nature
Needs secure fencing
Can be aloof
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Pharaoh Hound Fun Fact
Unique among dogs, Pharaoh Hounds blush when excited, their ears and nose turning rosy pink!
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.
Pharaoh Hound
Origin:
Ancient sighthounds from Malta served as rabbit hunters since 1000 BCE. Prized by Mediterranean nobility for their exceptional speed and hunting prowess in rocky terrain.
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.
Pharaoh Hound
Requires secure fencing due to prey drive. Weekly grooming sufficient. Regular exercise essential for physical and mental well-being.
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