Norfolk Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
85% Compatible
Energy Level
Norfolk Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Norfolk Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Norfolk Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Norfolk Terrier5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Norfolk Terrier3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Norfolk Terrier5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Norfolk Terrier
Mitral Valve Disease: Heart condition
Patellar Luxation: Knee joint issue
Dental Problems: Tooth decay risk
Eye Issues: Various conditions
Hip Problems: Joint concerns
Allergies: Skin sensitivities
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
Norfolk Terrier
Pros
Good with families
Compact size
Adaptable
Low grooming needs
Cons
Can be stubborn
May bark frequently
Prey drive
Occasional health issues
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
Norfolk Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their small size, Norfolk Terriers were bred to be fearless ratters and could work alongside foxhounds.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Norfolk Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Eastern England during the 1800s, these small terriers served as ratters in farms and stables, proving especially valuable in controlling vermin populations.
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
Norfolk Terrier
Weekly brushing required, regular dental care important. Need secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Watch for signs of joint issues and heart problems.
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.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Norfolk Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier →Same Group
Norfolk Terrier vs Welsh Terrier →Similar Size
Norfolk Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier →Similar Size
Norfolk Terrier vs Wire Fox Terrier →