Silky Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Silky Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Silky Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Silky 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
Silky Terrier3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Silky Terrier3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Silky Terrier4/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Silky Terrier
Patellar Luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Legg-Calve-Perthes: Hip joint issue
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Dental Issues: Tooth decay risk
Tracheal Collapse: Breathing difficulty
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
Silky Terrier
Pros
Low shedding coat
Excellent watchdog
Adaptable to apartment living
Intelligent and trainable
Cons
Regular grooming required
Can be vocal
May chase small animals
Stubborn streak
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
Silky Terrier Fun Fact
Despite their refined appearance, Silky Terriers were originally bred as capable rat hunters in Sydney's harbors.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Silky Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the late 19th century, these terriers excelled at hunting small vermin in urban areas while maintaining their role as refined companion dogs.
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
Silky Terrier
Regular coat maintenance essential with brushing 2-3 times weekly. Moderate exercise needs must be met. Dental care crucial due to common oral health issues.
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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