Polish Lowland Sheepdog vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Polish Lowland Sheepdog: Energetic0.8
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Polish Lowland Sheepdog: May be Stubborn0.2
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Polish Lowland Sheepdog: Daily Brushing0.8
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Polish Lowland Sheepdog3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Polish Lowland Sheepdog3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Polish Lowland Sheepdog3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal issues
Bloat: Digestive emergency concern
Thyroid Issues: Hormonal imbalances
Heart Problems: Cardiac health risks
Allergies: Skin sensitivity issues
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
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Pros
Excellent herding instincts
Loyal family companion
Good watchdog
Intelligent
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
High grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Requires extensive exercise
May be aloof with strangers
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
Polish Lowland Sheepdog Fun Fact
Their shaggy coat naturally forms cords if not regularly brushed, similar to dreadlocks!
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Origin:
Developed in Poland during the 16th century as versatile herding dogs, these sheepdogs excelled at managing flocks and protecting farmsteads across the Polish lowlands.
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
Polish Lowland Sheepdog
Daily coat maintenance essential to prevent matting. Requires significant exercise commitment. Early socialization important for balanced temperament.
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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