Welsh Terrier vs. Irish Water Spaniel: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

3 / 5

The Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel breeds have an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.

Hypoallergenic

Are Welsh Terriers or Irish Water Spaniels hypoallergenic, or neither?

Both Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel are hypoallergenic dogs, which make them ideal pets for people who are allergic to pets. Although no dogs are completely hypoallergenic, these breeds come very close and are great choices for those who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel dogs?

Alert
Intelligent
Independent
Friendly
Spirited
Loving

Active
Clownish
Intelligent
Alert
Inquisitive
Quick

Shedding Level

Do Welsh Terriers shed more than Irish Water Spaniels, or which breed sheds more, Welsh Terriers or Irish Water Spaniels?

1 / 5

Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

3 / 5

Welsh Terriers are decent watchdogs - they'll alert their owner if something seems amiss.

4 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels make excellent watchdogs - they're vocal and protective of their territory.

Origin

What is the origin of Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel dog breeds?

Wales

Ireland

Ancestry

What are the origins of Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel breeds?

old english black and tan terrier

poodle, portuguese water dog, barbet

Date of Birth

When were Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel breeds first developed?

1700s

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel?

Terrier (AKC:1888 & UKC)

Sporting (AKC:1884)
Gun Dogs (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel dogs?

Brown

Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel?

Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel breeds?

Black
Brown

Brown

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel breeds?

3 / 5

Welsh Terriers have medium-length coats.

4 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel?

Wiry

Curly

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel?

A Welsh Terrier can have a litter of 10-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

An Irish Water Spaniel can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

5 / 5

Welsh Terriers are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

4 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel, which breed is more prone to health problems?

2 / 5

Welsh Terriers are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.

4 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels typically have low vet costs due to their good health, but it's important to monitor their health and seek vet care when necessary.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel breeds?

Usually A Very Healthy Breed

Entropion
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Hypothyroidism

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel?

Cataracts
Glaucoma
Epilepsy
Lens Luxation
Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca

Otitis Externa
Entropion
Eye Problems
Hypothyroidism

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel breeds?

Eye
Blood Test
Heart
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Eye
Hip
Thyroid Tests
X-Rays
Eye Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Welsh Terriers and Irish Water Spaniels compare?

5 / 5

Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel breeds are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.

Social Needs

Welsh Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel social needs comparison

3 / 5

Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel have average social needs compared to other breeds. They are known to be less active and independent than other breeds, and they are content with spending time alone and with their human family.

Exercise Needed

Welsh Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel exercise need comparison.

4 / 5

Welsh Terriers require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

5 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

1 / 5

Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel are active dogs that may not require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

1 / 5

Welsh Terrier minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

2 / 5

Irish Water Spaniel has low drooling tendency, suitable for those who dislike drool marks.

Tendency to Bark

Do Welsh Terriers or Irish Water Spaniels bark more/less frequently?

5 / 5

Welsh Terrier dogs bark and howl frequently and are not recommended for quiet homes.

3 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Territorial

Is the Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel a better guard dog?

5 / 5

Welsh Terrier dogs are highly protective and make excellent guard dogs due to their strong instinct to defend their territory and owners, and their high level of vigilance.

3 / 5

While Irish Water Spaniel dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Welsh Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel?

2 / 5

3 / 5

Roaming urge

Welsh Terrier vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Prey Drive

Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

5 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel entertained?

Walks in the pa

Walking, Swimming, Hunting, Running

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Welsh Terriers or Irish Water Spaniels?

Welsh Terriers are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Irish Water Spaniels are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

3 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Welsh Terrier, it's at least 7 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Irish Water Spaniel, it's at least 15 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Welsh Terriers or Irish Water Spaniels require more exercise?

In general most Welsh Terriers usually need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Irish Water Spaniels usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Welsh Terriers or Irish Water Spaniels?

4 / 5

Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel are breeds of dogs that require a significant amount of grooming. They will also require regular trims, and a professional groomer's help is often necessary to keep their coat in good condition. They may also need regular baths to maintain their coat and skin.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Welsh Terriers and Irish Water Spaniels?

Slicker Brush
Comb
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel in cups?

For an average 17-22 pound (8 - 10 kg) Welsh Terrier feed 1.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 55-68 pound (25 - 31 kg) Irish Water Spaniel feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

The average cost of a Welsh Terrier is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

The average cost of an Irish Water Spaniel is somewhere $2.50 - $3.20 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

The average per month expenses of a Welsh Terrier is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of an Irish Water Spaniel is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Welsh Terriers vs Irish Water Spaniels

3 / 5

Welsh Terriers are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

4 / 5

Irish Water Spaniel is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Sensitivity Level

How do Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel compare in sensitivity?

3 / 5

Welsh Terriers have average emotions and adapt well to different situations.

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Welsh Terrier vs Irish Water Spaniel?

4 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

4 / 5

The Welsh Terrier is a great apartment dog, thriving with sufficient exercise and time outside as part of their daily routine.

2 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels can do well in apartments with enough exercise and time outside, but a small yard would be ideal.

Child Friendly

Do Welsh Terriers or Irish Water Spaniels have a friendlier temperament towards children?

4 / 5

Welsh Terriers are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

5 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

1 / 5

Welsh Terriers are not cat friendly.

2 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

2 / 5

Welsh Terriers and Irish Water Spaniels are below average dog friendly dogs. Welsh Terriers and Irish Water Spaniels may not always get along well with other dogs they have not been raised with.

Pet friendly

How do Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel dogs interact with other pets?

1 / 5

2 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Welsh Terrier or Irish Water Spaniel?

3 / 5

Welsh Terriers are averagely friendly around strangers but benefit from early socialisation.

2 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel?

4 / 5

Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel are playful dogs. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15-20 minutes, and it will mean the world to them.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Welsh Terriers and Irish Water Spaniels compare?

4 / 5

Welsh Terrier and Irish Water Spaniel dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.