Irish Water Spaniel vs Shih Tzu
Breed Compatibility
74% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Shih Tzu: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Shih Tzu: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Shih Tzu: Daily Brushing0.8
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Shih Tzu5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Shih Tzu5/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Shih Tzu3/5
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
Shih Tzu
Brachycephalic Syndrome: Breathing issues
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Ear Infections: Regular cleaning needed
Dental Issues: Regular care required
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
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
Shih Tzu
Pros
Excellent companion dog
Good with children
Adaptable to small spaces
Low exercise needs
Affectionate personality
Cons
High grooming requirements
Prone to health issues
Can be stubborn
Temperature sensitive
Difficult to housebreak
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Shih Tzu Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Shih Tzus were bred to resemble miniature lions in Chinese imperial courts!
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.
Shih Tzu
Origin:
Developed in ancient China's imperial courts as companion dogs, Shih Tzus served as cherished pets to Chinese royalty during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD).
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.
Shih Tzu
Daily grooming is essential for coat maintenance. Temperature sensitivity requires climate control, and regular dental care is crucial for preventing common oral issues.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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