Irish Water Spaniel vs Pyrenean Shepherd
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Pyrenean Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Pyrenean Shepherd: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Pyrenean Shepherd: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Pyrenean Shepherd3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Pyrenean Shepherd3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Pyrenean Shepherd3/5
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 Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
PRA: Progressive eye condition
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Patellar Luxation: Knee issues
Heart Defects: Cardiac concerns
Dental Issues: Teeth 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
Pyrenean Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent agility
Strong herding instinct
Devoted to family
Low maintenance coat
Cons
Can be strong-willed
High exercise needs
May be reserved with strangers
Tendency to bark
Requires early socialization
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Pyrenean Shepherd Fun Fact
Known as one of the most agile herding breeds, they can turn on a dime while working at full speed!
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 Shepherd
Origin:
Mountain herders in the Pyrenees region of France since medieval times, these dogs expertly managed sheep flocks across challenging alpine terrain while working closely with 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 Shepherd
Needs early socialization and consistent training. Regular grooming required for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met to prevent behavioral issues.
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