Irish Water Spaniel vs Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Breed Compatibility
92% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer4/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer3/5
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
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive vision issues
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Ear Infections: Due to hair growth
Allergies: Environmental sensitivity
Joint Issues: Activity-related strain
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
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Pros
Excellent hunting abilities
Strong work ethic
Loyal family companion
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
High exercise needs
Independent nature
Regular grooming required
Strong prey drive
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer Fun Fact
Their wire coat naturally repels water and provides protection in thorny undergrowth during hunts.
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.
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Origin:
Developed in Slovakia during the 1950s, combining German Wirehaired Pointer and other hunting breeds to create an exceptional bird dog capable of working in challenging terrain.
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.
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Regular wire coat maintenance needed. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Health screening for hip and eye conditions recommended.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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