Italian Greyhound vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
Italian Greyhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Italian Greyhound: Independent0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Italian Greyhound: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Italian Greyhound3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Italian Greyhound5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Italian Greyhound5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Italian Greyhound
Dental Disease: Common gum problems
Leg Fractures: Due to fine bones
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Eye Problems: Progressive issues
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Patellar Luxation: Knee problems
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
Pros & Cons Comparison
Italian Greyhound
Pros
Gentle and affectionate
Low grooming needs
Excellent apartment dog
Minimal shedding
Cons
Fragile bone structure
Cold sensitivity
Challenging to housebreak
Separation anxiety prone
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
Italian Greyhound Fun Fact
Despite their delicate appearance, Italian Greyhounds can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour!
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Italian Greyhound
Origin:
Refined in Italy during the Renaissance period as companion dogs for nobility, these graceful hounds served as cherished pets in palaces and estates across Europe.
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.
Special Considerations
Italian Greyhound
Requires protection from cold weather, careful handling due to delicate bone structure, and consistent dental care. Cannot tolerate rough play or extended outdoor exposure.
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.
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