Irish Water Spaniel vs Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno5/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno3/5
Living Requirements
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
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Dental Issues: Tooth decay risk
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac condition
Primary Lens Luxation: Eye disorder
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
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Pros
Adaptable to various living situations
Low grooming needs
Excellent watchdog
Affectionate with family
Cons
Can be stubborn
Strong prey drive
May be vocal
Requires secure fencing
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno Fun Fact
These ancient hunters were so valued in Portugal that they were often given as gifts to nobility.
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.
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Origin:
Developed in Portugal during medieval times as skilled rabbit hunters and ratters. These nimble dogs excelled in pursuing prey through rocky terrain and dense vegetation.
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.
Portuguese Podengo Pequeno
Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Weekly grooming needed. Regular exercise essential to prevent boredom and maintain health.
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