Irish Water Spaniel vs Portuguese Water Dog
Side-by-side comparison — size, temperament, traits, costs, and health
Irish Water Spaniel
Playful, Alert, Clownish, Inquisitive, Loyal, Active, Hardworking, Devoted, Reserved with strangers
Portuguese Water Dog
Adventurous, Athletic, Loyal, Spirited, Intelligent, Obedient, Docile, Impetuous, Energetic, Affectionate
📏 Physical Stats
⚡ Temperament & Traits
Scores are 1–5 from breed data. Higher = more of that trait. Barking: lower is quieter.
💰 Cost of Ownership
Based on breed-specific cost data at a moderate care level — quality food, routine vet, occasional grooming, standard insurance. Actual costs vary by location and provider.
Over their lifetimes, a Portuguese Water Dog (~12 yrs) costs approximately $4,238 less than a Irish Water Spaniel (~13 yrs) in total.
🏥 Health Considerations
Health conditions listed are common concerns for these breeds or breed groups. Not every dog will develop these conditions. Regular vet check-ups are the best prevention.
🐾 Temperament
Irish Water Spaniel
Playful, Alert, Clownish, Inquisitive, Loyal, Active, Hardworking, Devoted, Reserved with strangers
Portuguese Water Dog
Adventurous, Athletic, Loyal, Spirited, Intelligent, Obedient, Docile, Impetuous, Energetic, Affectionate