Neapolitan Mastiff vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
96% Compatible
Energy Level
Neapolitan Mastiff: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Neapolitan Mastiff: May be Stubborn0.2
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Neapolitan Mastiff: Weekly Brushing0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Neapolitan Mastiff3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Neapolitan Mastiff
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Cherry Eye: Third eyelid disorder
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Ectropion: Eyelid rolls outward
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Skin Fold Dermatitis: Wrinkle care
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
Neapolitan Mastiff
Pros
Extremely loyal to family
Excellent guardian
Gentle with family members
Low exercise needs
Cons
Heavy drooling
Significant health issues
Expensive maintenance
Not suitable for novice owners
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
Neapolitan Mastiff Fun Fact
Ancient Roman coins have been found depicting dogs remarkably similar to modern Neapolitan Mastiffs.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Neapolitan Mastiff
Origin:
Ancient Roman warriors bred these dogs in southern Italy as estate guardians and military dogs. Their intimidating presence and protective nature made them valued protectors of family and property.
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
Neapolitan Mastiff
Requires dedicated wrinkle cleaning and maintenance. Exercise must be moderate to protect joints. Regular vet care essential for monitoring breed-specific health issues.
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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