Tibetan Mastiff vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
97% Compatible
Energy Level
Tibetan Mastiff: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Tibetan Mastiff: Independent0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Tibetan 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
Tibetan Mastiff3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Tibetan Mastiff3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Tibetan Mastiff1/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Tibetan Mastiff
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint abnormality
Hypothyroidism: Hormone imbalance
Eye Problems: Various conditions
Heart Issues: Cardiac concerns
Skin Conditions: Dermatitis risks
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
Tibetan Mastiff
Pros
Excellent guardian
Loyal to family
Independent nature
Weather-resistant coat
Cons
Strong-willed personality
High maintenance grooming
Not suitable for apartments
Challenging to train
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
Tibetan Mastiff Fun Fact
Tibetan Mastiffs only shed once annually, but when they do, it's called 'blowing coat' and is massive!
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Tibetan Mastiff
Origin:
Serving as guardians of Tibetan monasteries and nomadic camps in the Himalayas since ancient times, these dogs protected livestock and property from predators including wolves and leopards.
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
Tibetan Mastiff
Extensive grooming during shedding seasons, strong guarding instincts requiring management, and need for early socialization to prevent excessive protectiveness.
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.
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