Irish Water Spaniel vs Pumi
Breed Compatibility
99% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Pumi: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Pumi: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Pumi: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Pumi3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Pumi3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Pumi3/5
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
Pumi
Hip dysplasia: joint malformation
Elbow dysplasia: joint issues
Patellar luxation: kneecap problems
Eye problems: various conditions
Degenerative myelopathy: spine issue
Dental issues: tooth problems
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
Pumi
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent herding instincts
Adaptable
Low-shedding coat
Cons
High exercise needs
Can be vocal
Requires mental stimulation
Strong herding drive
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Pumi Fun Fact
The Pumi's distinctive spiral-curled coat naturally forms corkscrews all over their body, giving them a unique appearance.
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.
Pumi
Origin:
Hungarian herding dog developed in the 17th century to manage sheep and cattle in challenging terrain. Valued for agility, intelligence, and versatile working abilities in pastoral settings.
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.
Pumi
Regular coat maintenance needed despite low shedding. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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