Pyrenean Mastiff vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
81% Compatible
Energy Level
Pyrenean Mastiff: Calm0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Less Compatible
Trainability
Pyrenean Mastiff: N/A
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Pyrenean Mastiff: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Pyrenean Mastiff5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Pyrenean Mastiff3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Pyrenean Mastiff3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Pyrenean Mastiff
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development issue
Bloat: Gastric torsion concern
Heart Issues: Cardiac health monitoring
Eye Problems: Regular checks needed
Joint Issues: Size-related concerns
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
Pyrenean Mastiff
Pros
Gentle and patient with family
Excellent guardian
Good with children
Calm temperament
Cons
Requires large living space
Heavy shedding
High food costs
Not suitable for novice owners
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
Pyrenean Mastiff Fun Fact
Despite their massive size, Pyrenean Mastiffs are known as 'gentle giants' and were historically trusted with newborn lambs.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Pyrenean Mastiff
Origin:
Developed in the Pyrenees mountains during medieval times as livestock guardians, protecting sheep flocks from wolves and bears while working alongside shepherds.
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
Pyrenean Mastiff
Regular brushing needed during shedding seasons. Moderate exercise requirements despite size. Joint health monitoring essential throughout life stages.
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.