Irish Water Spaniel vs Wetterhoun
Breed Compatibility
61% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Wetterhoun: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Wetterhoun: May be Stubborn0.2
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Wetterhoun: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Wetterhoun0/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Wetterhoun0/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Wetterhoun0/5
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
Wetterhoun
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation
Eye problems: Progressive conditions
Ear infections: Due to water exposure
Bloat: Digestive emergency risk
Skin allergies: Environmental factors
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
Wetterhoun
Pros
Excellent swimming ability
Loyal family companion
Weather-resistant coat
Good hunting instincts
Cons
Requires regular exercise
Can be stubborn
Limited breed availability
Needs water access
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Wetterhoun Fun Fact
Their water-repellent coat naturally forms unique cord-like curls that protect them in cold water.
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.
Wetterhoun
Origin:
Developed in Friesland, Netherlands during the 18th century, these dogs excelled in hunting waterfowl and small game in marshlands. Their water-resistant coats and swimming prowess were essential traits.
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.
Wetterhoun
Needs regular coat maintenance despite water-resistant texture. Requires consistent exercise and water activities. Health monitoring important for ears and joints.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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