Irish Water Spaniel vs Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Breed Compatibility
85% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier: 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
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier3/5
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
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
PLN: Protein-losing nephropathy
PLE: Protein-losing enteropathy
RD: Renal dysplasia concerns
Addison's: Adrenal insufficiency
IBD: Inflammatory bowel disease
Hip Dysplasia: Joint condition
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
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Pros
Minimal shedding coat
Good with families
Adaptable to different homes
Friendly personality
Cons
High grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Requires regular exercise
Health issues common
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Fun Fact
Their soft, silky coat is unique among terriers, who typically have wiry fur.
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.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Ireland during the 1800s as a versatile farm dog, skilled at hunting vermin, herding livestock, and serving as a loyal family companion.
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.
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed. Daily exercise requirements must be met. Watch for signs of protein-losing conditions and maintain regular vet check-ups.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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