Irish Water Spaniel vs Russell Terrier
Breed Compatibility
65% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Russell Terrier: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Russell Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Russell Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Russell Terrier/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Russell Terrier/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Russell Terrier/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
Russell Terrier
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Lens Luxation: Eye lens dislocation
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
Dental Issues: Tooth/gum 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
Russell Terrier
Pros
Highly energetic and playful
Compact size suits various homes
Intelligent and trainable
Low grooming requirements
Cons
High exercise needs
Strong prey drive
Can be stubborn
May be vocal
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Russell Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Russell Terriers can jump up to five times their own height!
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.
Russell Terrier
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1800s for fox hunting and vermin control. These small terriers excelled at pursuing quarry underground, demonstrating remarkable courage and tenacity.
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.
Russell Terrier
Regular exercise crucial to prevent boredom. Weekly brushing maintains coat condition. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
OccasionalRelated 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 →