Japanese Spitz vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
98% Compatible
Energy Level
Japanese Spitz: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Japanese Spitz: Easy Training0.8
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Japanese Spitz: Weekly Brushing0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Japanese Spitz3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Japanese Spitz3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Japanese Spitz3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Japanese Spitz
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap displacement
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Dental Issues: Tooth decay risk
Allergies: Skin sensitivities
Eye Problems: Tear duct concerns
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
Japanese Spitz
Pros
Excellent family companion
Adaptable to various living situations
Low maintenance health needs
Good with children
Cons
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Moderate shedding
May be reserved with strangers
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
Japanese Spitz Fun Fact
Despite their fluffy white coat, Japanese Spitz are surprisingly low-maintenance and self-cleaning!
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Japanese Spitz
Origin:
Developed in Japan during the 1920s and 1930s by breeding various spitz-type dogs. Valued as companion dogs and show dogs, particularly admired for their striking appearance.
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
Japanese Spitz
Regular brushing needed for coat maintenance. Moderate exercise requirements must be met daily. Watch for common health issues like patellar luxation.
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.
Shedding
OccasionalShedding
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