Working Kelpie vs Irish Water Spaniel
Breed Compatibility
85% Compatible
Energy Level
Working Kelpie: Energetic0.8
Irish Water Spaniel: Needs Lots of Activity1.0
Very Compatible
Trainability
Working Kelpie: Independent0.4
Irish Water Spaniel: Easy Training0.8
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Working Kelpie: Occasional Bath/Brush0.2
Irish Water Spaniel: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Moderate
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Working Kelpie5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Other Dogs
Working Kelpie3/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Good with Strangers
Working Kelpie5/5
Irish Water Spaniel3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Working Kelpie
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation risk
Eye Problems: Progressive retinal issues
Cerebellar Abiotrophy: Neurological concern
Collie Eye Anomaly: Vision defects
Cryptorchidism: Reproductive issue
Joint Problems: Working strain impact
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
Working Kelpie
Pros
Exceptional working ability
High intelligence
Strong endurance
Loyal companion
Low grooming needs
Cons
Extremely high exercise needs
Can be too intense for casual owners
Strong herding instincts
May be too energetic for small spaces
Requires constant mental stimulation
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
Working Kelpie Fun Fact
Working Kelpies can cover up to 50 kilometers in a day while working, showcasing their legendary endurance.
Irish Water Spaniel Fun Fact
Their distinctive rat-like tail, unique among water dogs, earned them the nickname 'Whiptail'.
Heritage & Purpose
Working Kelpie
Origin:
Developed in Australia during the 1870s for sheep herding in harsh outback conditions. These dogs revolutionized livestock management through their exceptional working abilities and stamina.
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
Working Kelpie
Requires extensive daily exercise and mental stimulation. Regular grooming is minimal but necessary. Health monitoring should focus on eyes and joints due to working strain.
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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