Irish Water Spaniel vs Xoloitzcuintli
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Xoloitzcuintli: Energetic0.8
Very Compatible
Trainability
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Xoloitzcuintli: Agreeable0.6
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Xoloitzcuintli: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Moderate
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Xoloitzcuintli3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Xoloitzcuintli3/5
Good with Strangers
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Xoloitzcuintli3/5
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
Xoloitzcuintli
Dental issues: Missing teeth common
Skin sensitivity: Needs sun protection
Joint problems: Monitor mobility
Eye conditions: Regular checks needed
Allergies: Environmental sensitivity
Temperature sensitivity: Both hot/cold
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
Xoloitzcuintli
Pros
Low grooming needs
Minimal shedding
Excellent watchdog
Highly adaptable
Cons
Sensitive skin requires care
Needs sun protection
Can be aloof with strangers
Temperature sensitive
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Xoloitzcuintli Fun Fact
Ancient Aztecs believed Xolos had healing powers and could ward off evil spirits and intruders.
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.
Xoloitzcuintli
Origin:
Sacred companion to ancient Aztecs in Mexico, dating back over 3000 years. Served as spiritual guardian and healing dog, valued for therapeutic warmth.
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.
Xoloitzcuintli
Requires sun protection for hairless variety. Regular skin care essential. Moderate exercise needs must be met. Temperature sensitivity requires indoor climate control.
Shedding
SeasonalShedding
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