Otterhound vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
96% Compatible
Energy Level
Otterhound: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Otterhound: May be Stubborn0.2
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Otterhound: Weekly Brushing0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Otterhound3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Otterhound3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Otterhound4/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Otterhound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Epilepsy: Neurological disorder
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint condition
Glaucoma: Eye pressure issue
CTP: Blood clotting disorder
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
Otterhound
Pros
Excellent swimming ability
Friendly temperament
Good with families
Strong tracking abilities
Cons
High grooming needs
Requires lots of exercise
Can be stubborn
Rare and expensive
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
Otterhound Fun Fact
Otterhounds have one of the strongest noses in the dog world, able to track scents underwater and up to 72 hours old.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Otterhound
Origin:
Developed in medieval England during the 12th century, these robust hounds were bred specifically for hunting otters in rivers and streams, using their powerful swimming abilities and keen sense of smell.
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
Otterhound
Regular coat maintenance needed to prevent matting. Requires secure fencing due to hunting instincts. Health screening for genetic conditions essential before breeding.
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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