Welsh Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
86% Compatible
Energy Level
Welsh Terrier: Energetic0.8
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Welsh Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Welsh Terrier: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Welsh Terrier5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Welsh Terrier3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Welsh Terrier5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Welsh Terrier
Hip dysplasia: joint malformation
Lens luxation: eye condition
Allergies: skin sensitivities
Glaucoma: eye pressure issues
Epilepsy: neurological disorder
Thyroid problems: 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
Welsh Terrier
Pros
Intelligent
Loyal
Low-shedding
Good with children
Adaptable
Alert watchdog
Cons
Strong prey drive
Can be stubborn
Needs regular grooming
High exercise needs
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
Welsh Terrier Fun Fact
Welsh Terriers hold the distinction of being one of the oldest existing dog breeds in the UK still bred true to type.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Welsh Terrier
Origin:
Developed in Wales during the 1700s, these terriers excelled at hunting foxes, badgers, and otters in the rugged Welsh countryside, demonstrating remarkable courage and tenacity.
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
Welsh Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed every 8-12 weeks. Daily exercise essential to prevent boredom. Watch for signs of common health issues like eye problems.
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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