Spanish Mastiff vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
94% Compatible
Energy Level
Spanish Mastiff: Calm0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Less Compatible
Trainability
Spanish Mastiff: N/A
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Less Compatible
Grooming Needs
Spanish Mastiff: N/A
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Moderately Compatible
Cost Category
Luxury
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Spanish Mastiff3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Spanish Mastiff3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Spanish Mastiff3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Spanish Mastiff
Hip dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Elbow dysplasia: Joint development problem
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Heart issues: Cardiac health concerns
Eye problems: Various ocular conditions
Obesity: Weight management challenges
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
Spanish Mastiff
Pros
Excellent guardian breed
Gentle with family
Patient temperament
Low exercise needs
Cons
Heavy drooling
Significant food costs
Space requirements
Health issues
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
Spanish Mastiff Fun Fact
Spanish Mastiffs were historically used in groups of five to protect sheep flocks from wolves and bears.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Spanish Mastiff
Origin:
Medieval Spain saw these mastiffs guarding livestock against wolves and bears in the Mesta system. Their impressive size and protective nature made them invaluable guardians of sheep flocks.
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
Spanish Mastiff
Regular grooming needed during shedding seasons. Moderate exercise requirements must be met consistently. Health monitoring is essential due to size-related 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.