Wire Fox Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
85% Compatible
Energy Level
Wire Fox Terrier: Regular Exercise0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Wire Fox Terrier: Agreeable0.6
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Wire Fox Terrier: Weekly Brushing0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Wire Fox Terrier5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Wire Fox Terrier3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Wire Fox Terrier5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Wire Fox Terrier
Cataracts: Progressive eye cloudiness
Legg-Perthes: Hip joint deformity
Patellar luxation: Kneecap dislocation
Lens luxation: Eye lens displacement
Allergies: Skin sensitivities common
Heart murmurs: Cardiac irregularities
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
Wire Fox Terrier
Pros
Highly intelligent
Excellent watchdogs
Low shedding coat
Adaptable to different living situations
Cons
High grooming needs
Can be stubborn
Strong prey drive
May be vocal
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
Wire Fox Terrier Fun Fact
These terriers were among the first breeds registered with the AKC and have won more Westminster Best in Shows than most breeds!
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Wire Fox Terrier
Origin: England
Developed in England during the 1800s, these skilled hunters excelled at flushing foxes from their dens, working alongside mounted hunting parties in pursuit of game.
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
Wire Fox Terrier
Regular professional grooming needed for coat maintenance. High exercise requirements must be met daily. Early socialization crucial for managing terrier temperament.
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
InfrequentShedding
SeasonalRelated Comparisons
Same Group
Wire Fox Terrier vs Welsh Terrier →Same Group
Wire Fox Terrier vs Norwich Terrier →Similar Size
Wire Fox Terrier vs Yorkshire Terrier →Similar Size
Wire Fox Terrier vs Japanese Chin →