Plott Hound vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
63% Compatible
Energy Level
Plott Hound: Energetic0.8
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Plott Hound: Independent0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Plott Hound: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Plott Hound0/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Plott Hound0/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Plott Hound0/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Plott Hound
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Bloat: Digestive emergency condition
Eye Problems: Various vision issues
Ear Infections: Common in hanging ears
Heart Issues: Cardiac health concerns
Skin Allergies: Environmental reactions
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
Plott Hound
Pros
Excellent tracking abilities
Loyal companion
Athletic and enduring
Low grooming needs
Cons
High exercise requirements
Strong prey drive
Independent nature
Not apartment suitable
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
Plott Hound Fun Fact
Plott Hounds are the only officially recognized breed developed in North Carolina.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Plott Hound
Origin: United States
Developed in the mountains of North Carolina during the 1750s for tracking and treeing large game. German immigrant Johannes Plott refined the breed for bear hunting.
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
Plott Hound
Needs secure fencing due to strong tracking instincts. Regular exercise crucial for good behavior. Occasional grooming required but generally low maintenance.
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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