Scottish Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
91% Compatible
Energy Level
Scottish Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Scottish Terrier: Independent0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Scottish Terrier: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Scottish Terrier3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Scottish Terrier2/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Scottish Terrier3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Scottish Terrier
Craniomandibular Osteopathy: Jaw bone growth
von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Scottie Cramp: Movement disorder
Cerebellar Abiotrophy: Brain condition
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Thyroid Issues: Hormone imbalance
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
Scottish Terrier
Pros
Loyal and protective
Low shedding
Good watchdog
Adaptable to various living spaces
Cons
Stubborn streak
High grooming needs
Can be territorial
Strong prey drive
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
Scottish Terrier Fun Fact
President Franklin D. Roosevelt's beloved Scottie, Fala, became one of the most famous presidential pets.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Scottish Terrier
Origin:
Developed in the Scottish Highlands during the 1700s, these tenacious terriers excelled at hunting badgers, foxes, and other burrowing prey in challenging terrain.
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
Scottish Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed. Strong prey drive requires secure fencing. 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.
Shedding
OccasionalShedding
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