Miniature American Shepherd vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
75% Compatible
Energy Level
Miniature American Shepherd: Energetic0.8
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Miniature American Shepherd: Eager to Please1.0
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Very Compatible
Grooming Needs
Miniature American Shepherd: Daily Brushing0.8
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Miniature American Shepherd5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Miniature American Shepherd3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Miniature American Shepherd
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
MDR1 Gene: Drug sensitivity issue
PRA: Progressive retinal atrophy
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defect
Epilepsy: Neurological condition
Cataracts: Vision clouding concern
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent family companion
Versatile working ability
Compact size
Strong herding instincts
Cons
High exercise needs
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
Strong herding instinct may need management
Requires consistent training
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
Miniature American Shepherd Fun Fact
Despite their small size, they retain all the working abilities of their larger Australian Shepherd ancestors!
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Miniature American Shepherd
Origin:
Developed in California during the 1960s as a smaller version of Australian Shepherds, these dogs were bred specifically for herding smaller livestock and companion work.
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
Miniature American Shepherd
Needs regular grooming to maintain coat condition. Requires substantial exercise and mental stimulation. Health testing for MDR1 gene mutation recommended.
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.