Irish Water Spaniel vs Schipperke
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Schipperke: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Schipperke: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Schipperke: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Schipperke3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Schipperke3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Schipperke3/5
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
Schipperke
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
MPS IIIB: Genetic storage disease
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalances
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Hip Issues: Joint deterioration risk
Legg-Perthes: Hip joint disorder
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
Schipperke
Pros
Excellent watchdog
Compact size
Low grooming needs
Long lifespan
Cons
Can be stubborn
Barks frequently
Strong prey drive
Independent nature
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Schipperke Fun Fact
Often called 'little black devils' in Belgium due to their mischievous nature and all-black coat.
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.
Schipperke
Origin:
Belgian dockyard dogs from the 1600s, serving as boat guardians and rat catchers along Antwerp's canals. Their name derives from 'schip,' meaning boat in Flemish.
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.
Schipperke
Regular brushing during shedding seasons, daily exercise to prevent boredom, and early socialization to manage watchdog tendencies are essential.
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