Shiba Inu vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Shiba Inu: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Shiba Inu: Independent0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Shiba Inu: Weekly Brushing0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Shiba Inu3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Shiba Inu3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Shiba Inu3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Shiba Inu
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Allergies: Skin sensitivities
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal atrophy
Dental Issues: Periodontal disease
Glaucoma: Eye pressure condition
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
Shiba Inu
Pros
Independent nature
Clean and fastidious
Minimal grooming needs
Excellent watchdog
Apartment-friendly size
Cons
Strong prey drive
Stubborn personality
Challenging to train
May be aggressive with other dogs
Prone to escaping
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
Shiba Inu Fun Fact
Shibas are known for their unique 'Shiba scream' - a high-pitched vocalization when excited or unhappy.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Shiba Inu
Origin:
Ancient Japanese breed from mountainous regions, dating back to 300 BC. Served as a skilled hunter of small game and birds in dense undergrowth of Japan's mountainous areas.
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
Shiba Inu
Requires secure fencing due to escape tendencies. Needs early socialization and consistent training. Regular brushing during shedding seasons essential.
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.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Shiba Inu vs Schipperke →Similar Size
Shiba Inu vs Wire Fox Terrier →Similar Size
Shiba Inu vs Schipperke →