Irish Water Spaniel vs Toy Fox Terrier
Breed Compatibility
64% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Toy Fox Terrier: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Toy Fox Terrier: Eager to Please1.0
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Toy Fox Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Toy Fox Terrier/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Toy Fox Terrier/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Toy Fox Terrier/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
Toy Fox Terrier
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Von Willebrand's: Blood clotting disorder
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Heart Murmurs: Cardiac abnormalities
Lens Luxation: Eye lens displacement
Dental Issues: Tooth and gum problems
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
Toy Fox Terrier
Pros
Highly intelligent
Low maintenance grooming
Good for apartment living
Long lifespan
Cons
Can be stubborn
May be yappy
Prone to dental issues
Not ideal with very young children
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Toy Fox Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their tiny size, Toy Fox Terriers were originally skilled ratters on American farms!
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.
Toy Fox Terrier
Origin:
Developed in the United States during the 1930s for hunting small vermin and providing companionship. Farmers valued these dogs for their exceptional ratting abilities.
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.
Toy Fox Terrier
Requires dental attention due to small mouth size. Needs protection in extreme weather. Regular exercise essential to prevent behavioral issues.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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