Irish Water Spaniel vs Plott Hound
Breed Compatibility
63% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Plott Hound: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Plott Hound: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Plott Hound: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Plott Hound0/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Plott Hound0/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Plott Hound0/5
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
Plott Hound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Bloat: Digestive emergency condition
Eye Problems: Various vision issues
Ear Infections: Common in hanging ears
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Skin Allergies: Environmental reactions
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
Plott Hound
Pros
Excellent tracking abilities
Loyal companion
Athletic and enduring
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Strong prey drive
Independent nature
Not apartment suitable
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Plott Hound Fun Fact
Plott Hounds are the only officially recognized breed developed in North Carolina.
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.
Plott Hound
Origin: United States
Developed in the mountains of North Carolina during the 1750s for tracking and treeing large game. German immigrant Johannes Plott refined the breed for bear hunting.
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.
Plott Hound
Needs secure fencing due to strong tracking instincts. Regular exercise crucial for good behavior. Occasional grooming required but generally low maintenance.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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