Irish Water Spaniel vs Pyrenean Mastiff
Breed Compatibility
81% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Pyrenean Mastiff: Calm0.4
Less Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Pyrenean Mastiff: N/A
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Pyrenean Mastiff: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Luxury
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Pyrenean Mastiff5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Pyrenean Mastiff3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Pyrenean Mastiff3/5
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
Pyrenean Mastiff
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Bloat: Gastric torsion concern
Heart Issues: Cardiac health monitoring
Eye Problems: Regular checks needed
Joint Issues: Size-related concerns
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
Pyrenean Mastiff
Pros
Gentle and patient with family
Excellent guardian
Good with children
Calm temperament
Cons
Requires large living space
Heavy shedding
High food costs
Not suitable for novice owners
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Pyrenean Mastiff Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, Pyrenean Mastiffs are known as 'gentle giants' and were historically trusted with newborn lambs.
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.
Pyrenean Mastiff
Origin:
Developed in the Pyrenees mountains during medieval times as livestock guardians, protecting sheep flocks from wolves and bears while working alongside shepherds.
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.
Pyrenean Mastiff
Regular brushing needed during shedding seasons. Moderate exercise requirements despite size. Joint health monitoring essential throughout life stages.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Irish Water Spaniel vs Boykin Spaniel →Similar Size
Irish Water Spaniel vs Belgian Tervuren →Similar Size
Irish Water Spaniel vs Afghan Hound →