Irish Water Spaniel vs Samoyed
Breed Compatibility
85% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Samoyed: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Samoyed: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Samoyed: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Samoyed5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Samoyed3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Samoyed5/5
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
Samoyed
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
PRA: Progressive eye disease
Diabetes: Blood sugar regulation
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
RD: Retinal development issue
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
Samoyed
Pros
Friendly and gentle temperament
Great with children
Low aggression levels
Adaptable to various living situations
Cons
Heavy shedding
High grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Not suitable for hot climates
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Samoyed Fun Fact
Samoyeds' white coats are actually hair, not fur, and can be spun like wool to make clothing!
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.
Samoyed
Origin:
Developed by the Samoyede people in Siberia during the 17th century, these dogs served as reindeer herders, sled pullers, and hunting companions in harsh Arctic conditions.
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.
Samoyed
Regular brushing needed 2-3 times weekly, increasing during shedding seasons. Daily exercise essential. Monitor for heat sensitivity and common breed health issues.
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 →