Parson Russell Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
89% Compatible
Energy Level
Parson Russell Terrier: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Parson Russell Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Parson Russell Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Parson Russell Terrier3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Parson Russell Terrier5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Parson Russell Terrier3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Parson Russell Terrier
Lens luxation: Eye lens displacement
Ataxia: Neurological coordination issue
Deafness: Hereditary hearing loss
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
Patellar luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Primary lens luxation: Eye 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
Parson Russell Terrier
Pros
Highly intelligent and trainable
Excellent exercise companion
Compact size
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Strong prey drive
Can be stubborn
May be vocal
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
Parson Russell Terrier Fun Fact
These terriers can jump up to five times their own height, making them exceptional athletes in dog sports!
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Parson Russell Terrier
Origin:
Developed in England during the 1800s as a skilled fox hunting terrier, these dogs excelled at following quarry underground and maintaining steady pursuit during hunts.
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
Parson Russell Terrier
Requires secure fencing due to high prey drive. Weekly grooming needed to maintain coat. Daily exercise essential for physical and mental well-being.
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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