Irish Water Spaniel vs Shikoku
Breed Compatibility
95% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Shikoku: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Shikoku: N/A
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Shikoku: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Shikoku3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Shikoku3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Shikoku3/5
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
Shikoku
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal issues
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Dental Issues: Periodontal disease risk
Joint Problems: Elbow dysplasia concern
Heart Issues: Cardiac health monitoring
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
Shikoku
Pros
Loyal and devoted
Athletic and agile
Excellent hunting instincts
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Strong prey drive
Independent nature
Requires extensive exercise
Can be aloof with strangers
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Shikoku Fun Fact
One of only six native Japanese spitz breeds, the Shikoku was once so rare it was declared a Living National Monument.
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.
Shikoku
Origin:
Developed in Japan's Kochi Prefecture during the 17th century for hunting boar and deer in mountainous terrain. Valued for exceptional tracking abilities and endurance in rugged 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.
Shikoku
Needs secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Regular grooming during shedding seasons. Requires dedicated exercise and training commitment.
Shedding
SeasonalRelated 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 →