Irish Water Spaniel vs. Miniature Poodle: Breed Differences and Similarities

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Irish Water Spaniel or Miniature Poodle?

3 / 5

Irish Water Spaniel has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

4 / 5

Miniature Poodle has high obesity risk, needs regular exercise and food control to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are Irish Water Spaniels or Miniature Poodles hypoallergenic, or neither?

Both Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle 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 Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle dogs?

Active
Clownish
Intelligent
Alert
Inquisitive
Quick

Active
Faithful
Intelligent
Alert
Instinctual
Trainable

Shedding Level

Do Irish Water Spaniels shed more than Miniature Poodles, or which breed sheds more, Irish Water Spaniels or Miniature Poodles?

1 / 5

Irish Water Spaniel or Miniature Poodle 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 Irish Water Spaniel or Miniature Poodle?

4 / 5

Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle are very good watchdogs. They are a vocal breed and are wary of outsiders, so if someone approaches your home or aims to intrude, these breeds are going to make sure everyone knows about it.

Origin

What is the origin of Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle dog breeds?

Ireland

Germany

Ancestry

What are the origins of Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle breeds?

poodle, portuguese water dog, barbet

Water Dog, Barbet

Date of Birth

When were Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle breeds first developed?

1800s

1400s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle?

Sporting (AKC:1884)
Gun Dogs (UKC)

Non-Sporting (AKC)
Companion Dogs (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle dogs?

Brown
Amber

Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle?

Black
Brown

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle breeds?

Brown

Red
Cream
Fawn
Blue
White
Sable
Brown
Gray
Black

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle breeds?

4 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels have longer coats compared to most dogs.

3 / 5

Miniature Poodles have medium-length coats.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle?

5 / 5

2 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle?

Curly

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle?

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.

A Miniature Poodle can have a litter of 14-16 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

4 / 5

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

5 / 5

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

Health Issues

Between Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle, which breed is more prone to health problems?

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.

3 / 5

While the Miniature Poodle breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle breeds?

Entropion
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Hypothyroidism

Patellar Luxation
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease

Minor Concerns

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

Otitis Externa
Entropion
Eye Problems
Hypothyroidism

Addison's Disease
Mitral Valve Disease
Cushing's Disease
Idiopathic Epilepsy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle breeds?

Eye
Hip
Thyroid Tests
X-Rays
Eye Examination

X-Rays
Eye Examination
Blood Analysis
Cardiac Ultrasound
Complete Physical Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Irish Water Spaniels and Miniature Poodles compare?

5 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

4 / 5

Miniature Poodles' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

Irish Water Spaniel vs Miniature Poodle social needs comparison

3 / 5

Irish Water Spaniel has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

5 / 5

Miniature Poodle has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Exercise Needed

Irish Water Spaniel vs Miniature Poodle exercise need comparison.

5 / 5

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

4 / 5

Miniature Poodles require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Irish Water Spaniel or Miniature Poodle?

1 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

2 / 5

Miniature Poodles sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Irish Water Spaniel or Miniature Poodle?

2 / 5

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

1 / 5

Miniature Poodle minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Irish Water Spaniels or Miniature Poodles bark more/less frequently?

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.

4 / 5

The Miniature Poodle is a vocal breed that frequently barks and howls, and may not be suitable for those seeking a quiet companion.

Territorial

Is the Irish Water Spaniel or Miniature Poodle a better guard dog?

3 / 5

Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle breeds are generally not considered the best guard dogs as their primary trait is not defense. Although they possess the capability to defend their territory or owners, it may not be their strongest trait.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Irish Water Spaniel vs Miniature Poodle?

3 / 5

2 / 5

Roaming urge

Irish Water Spaniel vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

2 / 5

Prey Drive

Irish Water Spaniel or Miniature Poodle - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

5 / 5

2 / 5

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle entertained?

Walking, Swimming, Hunting, Running

Go to Park, Walk, Run, Frisbee, Groom, Hike, Play, Nap, Chase, Fetch, Hide & Seek, Dog Parks, Eating Snacks, Yoga, Tug-of-war, Off-leash, Tag

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Irish Water Spaniels or Miniature Poodles?

Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle are high-energy dogs that require a lot of mental and physical exercise. Without proper stimulation and attention, these breeds can become problematic. If you're considering these breeds, be prepared to invest time and effort in their exercise and training.

Tolerance of being left alone

3 / 5

1 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Irish Water Spaniel or Miniature Poodle walk each week?

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.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Miniature Poodle, it's at least 9 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Irish Water Spaniels or Miniature Poodles require more exercise?

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.

In general most Miniature Poodles usually need at least 60 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, Irish Water Spaniels or Miniature Poodles?

4 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

5 / 5

Miniature Poodles have high grooming needs, requiring regular trims and professional grooming assistance to keep their coat healthy.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Irish Water Spaniels and Miniature Poodles?

Pin Brush
Comb
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Clipper
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Irish Water Spaniel or Miniature Poodle in cups?

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.

For an average 10-15 pound (5 - 7 kg) Miniature Poodle feed 1.5 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, Irish Water Spaniel or Miniature Poodle?

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

The average cost of a Miniature Poodle is somewhere $1.10 - $1.40 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Irish Water Spaniel or Miniature Poodle?

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.

The average per month expenses of a Miniature Poodle is between $35 - $42. This makes an average of $420 - $504 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: Irish Water Spaniels vs Miniature Poodles

4 / 5

Irish Water Spaniel is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

5 / 5

Miniature Poodle is highly intelligent and very trainable.

Sensitivity Level

How do Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle compare in sensitivity?

4 / 5

These breeds are more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Irish Water Spaniel vs Miniature Poodle?

4 / 5

5 / 5

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Irish Water Spaniel or Miniature Poodle?

2 / 5

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

5 / 5

Miniature Poodles make excellent apartment dogs, being fairly active indoors and not requiring a yard.

Child Friendly

Do Irish Water Spaniels or Miniature Poodles have a friendlier temperament towards children?

5 / 5

The typical characteristics of Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans.

Senior-friendly

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

5 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Irish Water Spaniel or Miniature Poodle breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

2 / 5

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

4 / 5

Miniature Poodles are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Irish Water Spaniel or Miniature Poodle?

2 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

4 / 5

Miniature Poodles are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Pet friendly

How do Irish Water Spaniel or Miniature Poodle dogs interact with other pets?

2 / 5

4 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Irish Water Spaniel or Miniature Poodle?

2 / 5

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

4 / 5

Miniature Poodles are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle?

4 / 5

Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle are playful dogs. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for Irish Water Spaniel and Miniature Poodle 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 Irish Water Spaniels and Miniature Poodles compare?

4 / 5

Irish Water Spaniels are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

5 / 5

The Miniature Poodle is highly intelligent and eager to please, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced dog owners due to its easy trainability.