Irish Water Spaniel vs Spanish Water Dog
Breed Compatibility
92% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Spanish Water Dog: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Spanish Water Dog: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Spanish Water Dog: Specialty/Professional1.0
Less Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Spanish Water Dog4/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Spanish Water Dog3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Spanish Water Dog3/5
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
Spanish Water Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
PRA: Progressive retinal deterioration
CHD: Congenital heart defects possible
Allergies: Environmental sensitivities
Hypothyroidism: Thyroid function issues
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder risk
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
Spanish Water Dog
Pros
Highly trainable
Excellent swimming ability
Low shedding coat
Versatile working dog
Cons
High grooming maintenance
Requires extensive exercise
Can be reserved with strangers
Strong herding instincts
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Spanish Water Dog Fun Fact
Their distinctive curly coat naturally forms cords if left ungroomed, creating a unique appearance similar to dreadlocks.
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.
Spanish Water Dog
Origin:
Developed along Spain's coastal regions during the Middle Ages, these dogs excelled in herding livestock and retrieving from water, serving as versatile working companions.
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.
Spanish Water Dog
Professional grooming needed regularly. Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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